Westmoreland County High Point Trip Report

Date: December 2001
Author: Levi Foust

Note: When coming from the west, Michael Schwartz's trip report may be more desirable. From the east there are many possible routes. This trip report will focus on a route that is accessible from the east and the west via Route 31 which neighbors the Pennsylvania Turnpike at Exits 9 and 10.

Starting Point: At 0.2 mile west of Laurel Mountain Summit (also, the Westmoreland/ Somerset County border) on Route 31, go south on Fire Tower Road. (This road may be impassable in a regular passenger car if there has been recent snowfall of large amount.) At 1 mile you will pass through a 6-way intersection. At 2 miles there is a left hand curve with a road off to the right (continue left). Go up hill to 2.2 miles with green gate on the right. Hop over the gate and swing left on the 4WD trail that leads right up to the highpoint, next to an abandoned fire tower (about a 5 minute hike). The fire tower offers a pretty view, but beware that some of the rungs toward the top are partially corroded.

Another point of interest is Fayette County's highpoint, just a few minute's drive away.