Forbes State Forest
in Westmoreland County PA
Directions
Forbes State Forest is divided into five divisions and 20
separate tracts of land, across Fayette, Somerset, and
southern Westmoreland County. Most of Forbes State Forest
lies along Laurel Ridge. Linn Run State Park offers access
to Forbes State Forest., as does the Spruce Flats Wildlife
Management Area accessible from Laurel Summit.
Description
The 54,800 acre Forbes State Forest takes its name in
honor of General John Forbes, who ordered the construction
of a road in 1757 from Bedford to Fort Pitt for the movement
of an expeditionary army.
Today the forest plays host to uncounted visitors each year,
outdoor enthusiasts of all types who take delight in many
activities, from hiking and hunting, to picnicking and
horseback riding. Nature observers have a variety of
habitats and native species to admire.
Attractions and Facilities
- Natural and Wildlife Areas
- Cold Water fishing
- Hunting
- Primitive Camping
- 12 Miles of Hiking Trails
- 40 Miles of Cross Country Ski Trails
- Mountain Biking
- 2 State Forest Picnic Areas
- 79 Miles of Snowmobile Trails
Contact Information
For more information on this vast natural resource,
please contact the Bureau of Forestry, Forest District # 4
at 724-238-1200.
Mail and email address:
P.O. Box 519
Laughlintown, PA 15655
email: fd01@state.pa.us
Or visit the Forbes State forest at the Pennsylvania
Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.
Forbes State Forest at the DCNR website
Westmoreland County offers ideal
outdoor park settings in the heart of the Laurel Highlands