The Linn Run Forest is located in the heart of the Laurel Mountains in Pennsylvania. The mountainous land ranges from 1300 to 2800 feet above sea level. Most of the land was bought from the Byers and Allen Lumber Company for $42,662. When this land was acquired by the Commonwealth in 1909, it was the first major public purchase of denuded forest land made in the Ohio River Basin. Today, it is difficult to visualize what this land looked like in 1909 or to imagine that some people questioned the wisdom of purchasing so much "waste land".

About fifteen years prior to the acquisition of the Linn Run property, this entire area was clearcut. The virgin forest was transformed into an area devoid of timber and wildlife. Treetops littered the area. Sawlogs were sold for lumber. Small logs were used for props in nearby coal mines. Hemlock bark, a source of tannin, was bundled and shipped to tanneries. And the railroad that hauled timber and other products to market caused many severe fires.

In his first report (September 1909), forester John R. Williams wrote, "I should say that fully three-fifths of the reserve has been burned over since lumbering was done. The fires did great damage to the young growth. Some places are covered with nothing but ferns and blackberry bushes." Occasional scars from those early fires can still be seen after years of forest rehabilitation.

Interesting traces of the Pittsburgh, Westmoreland, and Somerset Railroad that serviced the area remain to this day. The main line extended from Rector to Somerset. Because of heavy loads, the tracks switched back and forth across Linn Run several times. A short distance along the Fish Run Trail, you will find traces of the old railroad bed.

Linn Run State Park is an area of 612 acres surrounded by Forbes State Forest. To reach the park from Ligonier, take U.S. Route 30 east for two miles. At the intersection of PA Route 381, turn south for two miles. Turn left on Linn Run Road at the small town of Rector.

The varied topography, Linn Run Stream, and mixed hardwood and evergreen forest make this park a very desirable place for picnicking and hiking.

Ten rustic cabins are available for public use. All are available for use year round. During the summer season, only weekly rentals are available.

Within the park are five miles of hiking trails. Popular Flat Rock Trail is a one-half mile trail that concludes at a large, smooth rock in Linn Run stream.

For More Information Call or Write:
Laurel Ridge State Park
R. D. 3 Box 246
Rockwood, PA 15557-8703
Telephone: (724) 455-3744