By Stacey Wittig
Fall is pawsibly the best time for road-tripping through the acclaimed Laurel Highlands of southwestern Pennsylvania.
You and your furry traveling buddy will love leaf-peeping in the Laurel Highlands region of southwestern Pennsylvania, part of the larger Appalachian Mountains.
There’s lots to sniff out, including Ohiopyle State Park, which encompasses over 20,000 acres of rugged natural beauty. The park is the southern gateway to the Laurel Highlands, characterized by prominent ridges and mountains.
Cutting through the heart of the park, the rushing waters of the Youghiogheny [yawki-gay-nee] River Gorge are the centerpiece for Ohiopyle, one of USA Today’s “10 Enchanting Small Towns in The Northeast.”
It’s a must-stop on your Laurel Highlands road trip!
Ohiopyle State Park, in peak colors by mid-to-late October, is pet-friendly and allows your pooch in most outdoor areas, including on trails and campgrounds. However, there are some rules and guidelines to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors.
More Mountain Play
Since you are getting a taste of Western Pennsylvania, known as the birthplace of American whiskey, a trip to Ponfeigh Distillery is in order. They welcome dog-accompanied patrons in outdoor spaces and the distillery’s tasting room during regular hours. The distillery emphasizes a welcoming environment for all guests, including those with pets, as long as they are well-behaved and leashed.
Ponfeigh Distillery is on a mission to revive the history, culture, and stature of Monongahela Rye to its pre-prohibition prominence. Each meticulously crafted spirit embodies the region’s essence and pays homage to Western PA’s heritage.
Fort Necessity National Battlefield is a must-stop if you’re an American history buff. The battle at Fort Necessity in 1754 was the opening action of the French and Indian War, a clash of British, French and American Indian cultures. The war ended France’s power in North America.
Pets are welcome to explore all of the trails at Fort Necessity National Battlefield, Braddock’s Grave and Jumonville Glen. As in any national park, pets are not allowed in the buildings, tied to anything, or left in vehicles. Please keep them out of landscapes and wilderness areas, as these are habitats for wildlife.
You and your four-legged traveling companion can also take in the fall foliage at the Flight 93 National Memorial nearby. The park honors the passengers and crew of United Airlines Flight 93, who courageously thwarted a terrorist attack during the September 11, 2001 attacks and prevented the airplane from reaching its intended target.
Pets are permitted on all walkways at the Tower of Voices and on all gravel hiking trails, including the Western Overlook Trail, Allée, and the Trail of Remembrance.
You’ll discover plenty of pet-friendly restaurants and accommodations in the Laurel Highlands region. From upscale resorts like the Nemacolin, set on 2,200 mountainous acres, with its own luxury daytime boarding and overnight lodging at Wooflands Pet Resort & Spa, to dog-friendly Slopeside Hotel by Seven Springs Resort, you’ll find a range of accommodations.
Check for more pet-friendly accommodations at: golaurelhighlands.com/places-to-stay/pet-friendly
We always recommend informing the hotel in advance if you plan to bring your dog, as pet policies and fees vary depending on the hotel or specific rooms or suites booked.
It’s good to know that even if you don’t opt to stay at Nemacolin, you can place your four-legged pal at Wooflands Pet Resort while visiting Frank Lloyd Wright’s iconic Fallingwater, only 18 minutes away.
For a comfortable visit any time of the year, checking the hotels and park’s specific pet policies before your trip is always a good idea.
Getting there: Fly in and out of Pittsburgh and rent a car at the airport.
Stacey Wittig is a travel writer based near Flagstaff. She welcomes your questions and comments at unstoppablestaceytravel.com/contact.
