Breathtaking Lodge Views Along the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail, PA (Special Cookout Celebration at End of Trip)

***Special Promotion*** All trip participants will receive a Fjällräven Kånken R backpack (valued at $100) generously donated by our good friends at Fjällräven. Made from recycled materials and ready for adventure!

The Laurel Highlands region of southwestern Pennsylvania is home to some of the most spectacular natural scenery and exhilarating outdoor recreation in the eastern United States. There is over 100,000 acres of public lands located in the Laurel Highlands. One of the main recreational destinations and features is the 70-mile Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail (part of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail). Scenic vistas, unique geologic features, lush northern hardwood forests, pristine waterways and fresh mountain air await.

Volunteers will perform trail work on the northern section of the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail involving constructing a new set of switchbacks, constructing new trail tread for a minor reroute, repair and constructing drainage, and blaze over 10 miles of trail. You will work alongside park staff and Ridge Runners local volunteers.

After a day on the trail, you will return to the splendor and comfort of the Hufman Lodge. This Lodge is one of the finest accommodations in the State Park system, offering a stunning view of Laurel Ridge. Warm by the fire and enjoy dinner with your fellow volunteers. At the end of the week the host will provide a cookout for all your hard work and efforts!

There is no experience needed to join a Volunteer Vacation! Your expert hosts will provide detailed instruction, tool demonstrations, and project oversight throughout the week. All you need is a willing attitude and to be in good physical condition to participate in moderate physical activity for approximately 6-8 hours a day with plenty of breaks, at your own pace. Find out more about what it’s like to join a Volunteer Vacation and other frequently asked questions here.

Avg. Temperature:

Typical weather for this area during this season has highs of roughly 80–85°F and lows of 60–65°F. Early August in southwestern Pennsylvania is typically warm and muggy with a chance of afternoon or evening thunderstorms.

Sample Schedule:

Day 1: Arrival

Typically meet in the afternoon for check in, introductions, orientation, and camp setup. (Time/place TBD)

Day 2: Work Day

Enjoy a hearty breakfast, pack lunches, and be on the trail between 8 AM and 9 AM

Lunch and plenty of other breaks will be included.

Wrap up the work day in the late afternoon and head back to camp and enjoy a few hours of daylight for free time.

Reconvene at a chosen time for dinner.

After dinner has been cleaned up, evenings offer plenty of  time to relax, sit around the campfire and get to know your fellow crew members, or enjoy more free time.

Day 3: Work Day

Day 4: Rest Day (Specific Day on Trip Will Be Confirmed By Host)

Your choice! Explore the area, take a recreational hike,  tour local attractions, or hang out at camp. Group excursions can be planned or set-out on your own.

Day 5: Work Day

Day 6: Work Day

Day 7: Departure

Pack up and clean up, celebrate your accomplishments, wish each other a fond farewell, and depart. Please note: This schedule is subject to change due to weather or other circumstances. Any updates will be communicated to the group.

Land Acknowledgment:

AHS acknowledges with gratitude that this project takes place on the traditional lands of the Shawandasse Tula (Shawanwaki/Shawnee), Massawomeck, Osage, and Monongahela Culture past and present. We honor the land itself, the Indigenous communities who have stewarded these islands and mountain landscapes for countless generations, and those who continue this stewardship today. This acknowledgement is one step in our ongoing commitment to uplift Indigenous voices. We invite the American Hiking Society community to learn about, support, and stand in solidarity with the Indigenous peoples whose lands we live, work, and recreate on.