Tucked into the Laurel Highlands of Westmoreland County, Linn Run State Park offers 612 acres of densely forested mountain terrain that feels far removed from everyday life. Established in 1924, this park sits along the western slope of Laurel Ridge, where Linn Run creek cuts through a hemlock-shaded ravine that stays cool even in the heat of summer.

The park is best known for its rustic family cabins, originally built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. These stone-and-timber cabins remain a draw for families looking for a woodland retreat without roughing it entirely. For hikers, the park connects to the larger Forbes State Forest trail network, including access to the Grove Run Trail and the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail, one of Pennsylvania’s premier long-distance routes.

Linn Run creek provides a peaceful backdrop for fishing — native brook trout inhabit the upper stretches, making it a worthwhile stop for anglers willing to work smaller water. The forest itself is a mix of hemlock, oak, and maple, creating a canopy that puts on a striking display during fall foliage season, typically peaking in mid-October.

Spring and early summer bring wildflowers and migrating warblers, while winter transforms the park into a quiet retreat for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing when conditions allow. The park’s compact size makes it easy to explore in a day, but the cabin rentals give good reason to stay longer and use it as a base for exploring the surrounding Laurel Highlands.

Explore Nearby

• Lincoln Highway Heritage Byway — Scenic Byway in Iowa
• Lincoln Heritage Scenic Highway — Scenic Byway in Kentucky
• Walter’s Mill Bridge — Covered Bridge in Pennsylvania
• Barronvale Bridge — Covered Bridge in Pennsylvania
• South Hills — Public Land