Explore Somerset County.

Getting to know Somerset County

Somerset County is high country. About an hour and a half southeast of Pittsburgh on the Pennsylvania Turnpike, it sits on the Allegheny Plateau between Laurel Ridge and the Allegheny Front, with cool summers, snowy winters and wide-open farm views.

The county seat is the borough of Somerset, right off the Turnpike. From there, Somerset County spreads out into small towns, maple camps, ski slopes and some of the best trail riding in the state.

Somerset County highlights

• Mount Davis – the highest point in Pennsylvania, tucked into southern Somerset County, with an observation tower and short walking trails.
• Flight 93 National Memorial – near Shanksville, honoring the passengers and crew of United Flight 93 on September 11, 2001.
• Seven Springs and Hidden Valley – the two big Somerset County mountain resorts, known for winter skiing and warm-weather getaways.
• Laurel Hill and Kooser state parks – lakes, campgrounds and wooded trails on the western side of Somerset County.

Trails and rivers in Somerset County

The Great Allegheny Passage rail-trail crosses Somerset County on its way from Pittsburgh to Cumberland, Maryland. Trail towns such as Confluence, Rockwood and Meyersdale welcome riders, and the route passes the Salisbury Viaduct, the Eastern Continental Divide and the Big Savage Tunnel.

At Confluence, the Casselman River, Laurel Hill Creek and the Youghiogheny River come together near Youghiogheny River Lake. The Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail also follows Laurel Ridge along the western edge of Somerset County.

Maple country

Somerset County is one of Pennsylvania’s best-known maple syrup regions. Late winter is sugaring season, and Meyersdale’s long-running maple festival celebrates it each spring. Look for local syrup, candy and other maple goods at shops and farm stands across Somerset County.

When to visit Somerset County

Every season works. Winter brings skiing and snow sports, spring brings maple season, summer is ideal for biking and lake days, and fall paints the ridges with color. Weather on the mountain can change fast, so pack an extra layer even in summer.

Tips for a day in Somerset County

• Use the town filter above to line up coffee, food and shopping near your trail town or resort.
• Expect snow and ice on ridge roads in winter, and check road conditions before you drive.
• Cell service can drop out in the valleys and on the trail, so download maps ahead of time.
• Many small businesses keep seasonal hours; call ahead before a special trip.

Come for the mountains and stay for the small towns. Somerset County makes a great weekend escape from Pittsburgh.

Make a day of it.

Try the existing Somerset day plan for a bakery, an arts center and a winery stop. Check opening hours, tour appointments and transport before you go.

Somerset: sweets, local art & a winery stop →

Start with the YinzMart places above. For visitor information, lodging and additional trip ideas, visit the county’s official tourism resource.

Hours, admission, accessibility and seasonal availability can change. Confirm details directly before you go.

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