PA Counties

24 Must-See Attractions in Somerset County

Rusty Glessner

A collage of four images showcasing attractions in Somerset County, Pennsylvania. The top left image features a fisherman by a creek in front of a picturesque red covered bridge surrounded by autumn foliage. The top right photo shows a person standing on a rocky outcrop overlooking a vast landscape of colorful fall trees under a clear sky. The bottom left picture captures a well-lit tunnel with multiple lights creating a starburst effect. The bottom right image is a tranquil scene of a park with a bicyclist on a path next to a lake reflecting the vibrant autumn trees and blue sky.

If you’re looking for the best things to see and do in Somerset County, Pennsylvania, you’re in the right place!

A simplified map of Pennsylvania displaying counties in black and white, with Somerset County highlighted in red. The county is situated towards the southern part of the state, clearly marked and distinguished from surrounding counties. — A map of Pennsylvania highlighting the location of Somerset County in red.

The county was founded in 1795 and is named for Somersetshire, England.

A close-up of a blue and gold historical marker in Somerset County, Pennsylvania. The sign provides a brief history, noting that Somerset County was formed on April 17, 1795, from Bedford County and named after Somersetshire, England. It mentions that Somerset was incorporated in 1804, and that the area is known for producing maple syrup. In the background, part of a classical-style building with ornate columns can be seen, along with the American flag fluttering in the distance. — Somerset County historical marker in front of the courthouse.

The county seat is Somerset, a central stage for the Whiskey Rebellion of 1794.

The Somerset County Courthouse in Somerset, Pennsylvania, shown on an overcast day with the American flag and the Pennsylvania state flag flying atop flagpoles. In front of the courthouse is a Civil War monument featuring a soldier statue. The courthouse itself is an elegant building with a central dome and a classical portico with columns. A historical marker is visible to the left of the courthouse steps. — The Somerset County courthouse in Somerset.

The county makes up one-third of the Laurel Highlands region in western PA (Fayette and Westmoreland counties making up the other two-thirds).

Fall foliage views at Laurel Hill State Park in Somerset County on October 16, 2022. — Fall foliage views at Laurel Hill State Park in Somerset County.

Somerset County is one of the snowiest inhabited locations in the United States, with the highest elevations of the county averaging 150+ inches of snow each winter.

The author at Beam Rocks Overlook on a snowy day. — The author at Beam Rocks Overlook on a snowy day in Somerset County.

From beautiful waterfalls to scenic overlooks to bike trails to national memorials, here are 24 must-see attractions in Somerset County, Pennsylvania!

Kayakers on Laurel Hill Lake at Laurel Hill State Park. — Kayakers on Laurel Hill Lake at Laurel Hill State Park in Somerset County.

Simply click on the blue text links in the descriptions below to read more in-depth information about each destination.

Patriotic barn along Faidley Road in Somerset County PA — Patriotic barn along Faidley Road in Somerset County.

1. Laurel Hill State Park

Laurel Hill State Park is comprised of 4,062 acres of mountainous, wooded terrain in central Somerset County.

Jones Mill Run Dam at Laurel Hill State Park.

At the heart of the park is the 63 acre Laurel Hill Lake, a fantastic spot for swimming, boating, fishing, and bird-watching.

Fall foliage along the beach at Laurel Hill State Park.

Surrounding the lake are nearly 20 miles of trails, perfect for spending a few hours or an entire day exploring the forest.

Fall foliage around the Hemlock Trail at Laurel Hill State Park.

2. Kooser State Park

Kooser State Park occupies 250 wooded acres along Route 31 in Somerset County.

Fall foliage at Kooser State Park in Somerset County PA — Fall foliage at Kooser State Park in Somerset County.

Initially constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930’s, the focal point of the park is 4-acre Kooser Lake.

Kooser State Park lakeside picnic table and grill.

3. The Covered Bridges of Somerset County

Exploring the Covered Bridges of Somerset County introduces you to the county’s 10 remarkable covered bridges, in all their historic glory.

Fall foliage around Kings Covered Bridge in Somerset County PA. — Fall foliage around Kings Covered Bridge in Somerset County, PA.

This write-up provides maps, directions, photos, and descriptions of all 10 Somerset County covered bridges, along with links to even more extensive articles for a few of the bridges.

Aerial side view oof the Barronvale Covered Bridge in Somerset County PA. — Side view of the Barronvale Covered Bridge, the longest covered bridge in Somerset County, PA.

4. Cole Run Falls

Cole Run Falls lies on a beautiful mountain stream in the Forbes State Forest.

The author at Cole Run Falls in the Laurel Highlands. — The author at Cole Run Falls in Somerset County.

Despite its rugged appearance, Cole Run Falls is located just a few yards from a state forest road and is easily accessible spring through fall.

An autumn view of Cole Run Falls in Somerset County, PA. — An autumn view of Cole Run Falls.

5. Mount Davis – The Highest Point in PA

Mount Davis in the Somerset County portion of the Forbes State Forest is the highest point in Pennsylvania!

Geologic history of Mount Davis in Somerset County. — Geological history of Mount Davis in Somerset County.

At 3,213 feet above sea level, this idyllic mountain setting is home to some incredible views of the surrounding Laurel Highlands.

Deer Valley Lake as viewed from Mount Davis Observation Tower in Somerset County PA — View from Mount Davis.

The observation tower at Mount Davis is probably the most well-known overlook in Somerset County.

The observation tower at Mount Davis in Somerset County. — The observation tower at Mount Davis.

6. The Flight 93 National Memorial

Exploring the Flight 93 National Memorial in Somerset County gives you an overview of what to expect when visiting this tribute to the 40 passengers and crew members on United Airlines Flight 93 on September 11, 2001.

The Wall of Names at the Flight 93 National Memorial.

Thousands of visitors from around the world stop here every year to pay their respects and learn more about how the passengers and crew of Flight 93 fought back against the radical Islamic hijackers, thwarting their attempt to use the airplane as a missile against the United States Capitol.

One of the interpretive displays inside the Flight 93 Memorial Visitor Center. — One of the interpretive displays inside the Flight 93 National Memorial Visitor Center.

Along with the Soldiers National Cemetery in Gettysburg, this is some of the most hallowed ground in Pennsylvania.

The 40 wind chimes that make up the Tower of Voices at the FLight 93 National Memorial in Somerset County PA — The 40 wind chimes that make up the Tower of Voices at the Flight 93 National Memorial in Somerset County, PA.

7. The Flight 93 Memorial Chapel

The Flight 93 Memorial Chapel, located 3 miles west of Shanksville, was one of the earliest memorials to the passengers and crew of Flight 93.

The Flight 93 Memorial Chapel at the intersection of Coleman Station and Stutzmantown roads.

Home to many donated pieces of memorabilia, the Flight 93 Memorial Chapel serves as a place to honor those who died on 9/11, and is open (free of charge) to visitors most days from 12-5.

Inside view of the Flight 93 Memorial Chapel near Shanksville, Pennsylvania.

8. Patriot Park

Patriot Park near Shanksville is the future home of a permanent memorial intended to honor all those who died in the line of duty while serving the United States military in the Global War on Terrorism.

The Field of Heroes at Patriot Park near Shanksville. Pennsylvania. — *The Field of Heroes at Patriot Park near Shanksville.*

Like the Flight 93 Memorial Chapel, Patriot Park is privately-funded, relying on donations rather than the financial backing of the United States government.

Looking out over the Field of Heroes on a September morning.

Patriot Park is located less than half a mile from the entrance to the Flight 93 National Memorial, along Route 30 in Somerset County.

Entrance to Patriot Park along Route 30 near the Flight 93 National Memorial.

9. The Remember Me Rose Garden

The Remember Me Rose Garden is a living tribute to the passengers and crew aboard United Flight 93, who sacrificed their own lives to save countless others during the 9/11/2001 terrorist attacks on America.

Scenes from the Remember Me Rose Garden Flight 93 tribute in Somerset County Pennsylvania. — Scenes from the Remember Me Rose Garden near Shanksville, PA.

The Remember Me Rose Garden is located a quarter-mile east of the Flight 93 National Memorial, along Route 30.

Each point on the compass at the Remember Me Rose Garden is 93 feet in length as an additional tribute to Flight 93.

10. Yoder Falls

Yoder Falls is the tallest and northernmost waterfall in Somerset County.

The author at Yoder Falls in the Laurel Highlands of Pennsylvania. — The author at Yoder Falls in Somerset County.

Situated near the Somerset / Cambria County line, it is a popular destination for hikers looking for a short jaunt to a sequestered destination.

A springtime view of Yoder Falls near Davidsville, PA. — A springtime view of Yoder Falls.

11. Beam Rocks Overlook

Beam Rocks Overlook is one of the most scenic mountain vistas in the Laurel Highlands!

Fall foliage around Beam Rocks in the Laurel Highlands of Pennsylvania. — Fall foliage around Beam Rocks Overlook in Somerset County.

Located in the Forbes State Forest near the Westmoreland / Somerset County line, it offers a fantastic 180° view from high above the treetops and the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail below.

Beam Rocks Overlook in the Forbes State Forest on a winter afternoon. — Beam Rocks Overlook on a winter afternoon.

12. The Salisbury Viaduct

The Salisbury Viaduct is just one of the many engineering marvels along the 150 mile-long Great Allegheny Passage, the longest multi-use rail trail in Pennsylvania.

The Salisbury Viaduct disappears into the Pennsylvania foothills near Meyersdale. — The Salisbury Viaduct disappears into the Somerset County foothills near Meyersdale.

Completed in 1912, the Salisbury Viaduct is visited by thousands of hikers, bikers, sightseers, and photographers every year, 110 years after the first train crossed it.

Rusty Glessner taking in the sunrise over the Salisbury Viaduct. — The author at the Salisbury Viaduct along the Great Allegheny Passage.

13. The Big Savage Tunnel

The Big Savage Tunnel is another engineering marvel along the Great Allegheny Passage, near mile marker 23 in Somerset County.

Bicycle at the northern portal of the Big Savage Tunnel along the Great Allegheny Passage rail trail in Somerset County, Pennsylvania. — The northern portal of the Big Savage Tunnel along the Great Allegheny Passage rail trail in Somerset County.

This 3,294 foot long tunnel opened in 1912 as part of the Western Maryland Railroad, and was a critical link in that rail line connecting Maryland to Pennsylvania until the entire line was abandoned in 1975.

The well-lit and refurbished Big Savage Tunnel along the Great Allegheny Passage in Somerset County PA. — The well-lit and refurbished Big Savage Tunnel along the Great Allegheny Passage.

14. The Mason and Dixon Line Park

The Mason and Dixon Line Park is a small but educational park at the southernmost point of the Great Allegheny Passage in Pennsylvania.

Granite monument at the Mason and Dixon Line Park along the Great Allegheny Passage. — The Mason and Dixon Line Park at the southernmost point in Somerset County.

Surveyed to settle a land dispute between two prominent English colonial families (the Penns and the Calverts), the Mason-Dixon line later became famous as the line between free and slave states prior to the Civil War.

Granite monument showing the family crests of both the Penn and Calvert families at the Mason and Dixon Line Line Park along the Great Allegheny Passage.

15. Cranberry Glade Lake

Cranberry Glade Lake is nestled in a beautiful valley setting near a wind farm in Somerset County.

Fall foliage in the foreground, wind farm in the background at Cranberry Glade Lake on State Game Lands 111 in Somerset County, PA.

Cranberry Glade Lake is located on State Game Lands 111 near the Somerset-Fayette County line.

How to find Cranberry Glade Lake in western Somerset County, PA. — Map to Cranberry Glade Lake in western Somerset County.

The fall foliage reflects nicely off the normally glassy calm waters of this picturesque lake in Somerset County.

Fall foliage at Cranberry Glade Lake in the PA Laurel Highlands. — Fall foliage at Cranberry Glade Lake in Somerset County.

16. The Somerset Historical Center

The Somerset Historical Center is a museum that explores the evolution of rural life in southwestern Pennsylvania, with an emphasis on Somerset County in particular.

The Somerset Historica Center is located at 10649 Somerset Pike, Somerset, PA 15501. — The Somerset Historical Center.

The displays, dioramas, and artifacts unfold in chronological fashion as you make your way through the museum, learning about the area’s cultural heritage.

Exhibit about early European settlers at the Somerset Historical Center in Somerset Pennsylvania. — Exhibit about early European settlers to the area.

The museum is home to numerous outdoor exhibits, including some historic structures that were disassembled and relocated to the museum’s 150-acre grounds to prevent their destruction.

The Adam Miller farmstead is representative of an 1830s farm in western Pennsylvania. — The Adam Miller Farmstead is representative of an 1830s farm in western Pennsylvania.

17. Brantview Farms Maple Camp

Brantview Farms Maple Camp in Somerset County is an excellent place to experience the entire process of maple syrup being made, from tree to table!

Exploring Brantview Farms Maple Camp in Somerset County PA

This maple camp doubles as a “maple syrup museum” of sorts, housing many unique tools and artifacts used in maple syrup production over the past 100 years.

Inside the sugar camp, which doubles as a maple syrup museum.

So if you’ve ever wondered how maple syrup is made, or wanted to purchase it straight from the source, a visit to Brantview Farms Maple Camp is a must.

Maple syrup for sale at Brantview Farms Maple Camp in Somerset County, PA. — Maple syrup for sale at Brantview Farms Maple Camp.

18. Mountain Craft Days

Mountain Craft Days is a three-day outdoor festival featuring more than 125 artisans and entertainers interpreting rural life in western PA in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Mountain Craft Days in Somerset features 125 crafts persons, artisans, and entertainers interpreting the rural folkways of western Pennsylvania. — Mountain Craft Days at the Somerset Historical Center.

Held on the scenic wooded grounds of the Somerset Historical Center, Mountain Craft Days is an excellent way to learn how the first European settlers in western PA lived, worked, ate, and played.

Live music performances are one of the many reasons to attend Mountain Craft Days in Somerset Pennsylvania. — Live traditional music performances are one of the many reasons to attend Mountain Craft Days in Somerset, Pennsylvania.

19. The Farmers and Threshermens Jubilee

The Farmers and Threshermens Jubilee in Somerset County is a 5 day festival that showcases antique agricultural machinery popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Enjoying the Farmers and Threshermens Jubilee in New Centerville Pennsylvania. — The Farmers and Threshermens Jubilee in Somerset County.

The Farmers and Threshermens Jubilee runs the Wednesday – Sunday following Labor Day.

Steam tractors lined up on display at the Farmers and Threshermens Jubilee near Rockwood Pennsylvania. — Steam tractors lined up on display at the Farmers and Threshermens Jubilee.

20. The Clear Shade Creek Swinging Bridge

The Clear Shade Creek Swinging Bridge is a suspension bridge along the John P. Saylor Trail in the Gallitzin State Forest.

Hiking to the Clear Shade Creek swinging bridge in the Gallitzin State Forest. — Scenes from hiking to the Clear Shade Creek Swinging Bridge.

21. Wolf Rocks in the Gallitzin State Forest

Wolf Rocks is a beautiful geological formation located along the orange-blazed John P. Saylor Trail in the Somerset County portion of the Gallitzin State Forest.

Exploring Wolf Rocks along the John P Saylor Trail in the Gallitzin State Forest. — Scenes from Wolf Rocks in the Gallitzin State Forest.

22. The Springs Farmers Market

The Springs Farmers Market features more than 80 local farmers, artisans, and flea market vendors selling everything from fresh produce, baked goods, locally-grown plants, and handcrafted Amish furniture to antiques, tools, and other flea market treasures.

A collage of four images from the Springs Farmers Market and Museum: the top left image shows visitors walking through an outdoor market with vendor tables displaying various items; the top right image features shelves filled with homemade baked goods; the bottom left image displays the Springs Museum sign along with a sign for the Farmers Market; the bottom right image depicts a historical kitchen exhibit with vintage kitchenware and a mannequin dressed in period clothing. — Scenes from the SPrings Farmers Market.

23. The Great Crossings Bridge

The Great Crossings Bridge, a long-submerged piece of American history, is visible when water levels drop at Youghiogheny River Lake in southwestern Somerset County.

A collage of four images featuring the Great Crossings Bridge in Somerset County, PA. The top left image shows visitors walking along the exposed stone arches of the historic bridge against a backdrop of fall foliage. The top right is a vintage black-and-white photo of the bridge leading into the former town of Somerfield. The bottom left image captures a modern view of the bridge partially submerged with the Route 40 bridge overhead, while the bottom right shows a distant perspective of visitors walking along the dry lakebed toward the exposed bridge, surrounded by a rugged, rocky shoreline and autumn-colored hills.

When this happens, visitors have a unique chance to walk across the bridge, gaining a rare firsthand view of this early American landmark.

People stand and walk along the exposed Great Crossings Bridge in Somerset County, PA, which is usually submerged beneath the waters of Youghiogheny River Lake. The bridge’s weathered surface extends into the water, with rocky, sloped shores and autumn-colored trees surrounding the lake. The low water levels provide visitors with a rare opportunity to explore this historic structure up close on a clear, sunny day.

24. Allegheny Mountain Antique Gallery

Allegheny Mountain Antique Gallery, located 3 miles east of Windber along Route 56, offers a treasure trove of vintage finds for collectors and casual shoppers alike.

A collage of four photos showcasing the diverse offerings at Allegheny Mountain Antique Gallery in Somerset County, PA. The top left image provides an overhead view of the main floor, filled with rows of vintage items and collectibles. The top right image highlights a cozy room featuring a variety of antique household items, including a vintage scale and framed artwork. The bottom left photo shows a well-organized room with antique furniture, mirrors, and decor, creating an inviting display. The bottom right image captures the gallery’s roadside sign with the scenic Pennsylvania countryside in the background, welcoming visitors to explore the two-story antique mall with nearly 40 vendors.

This two-story antique mall, featuring nearly 40 vendors, has something for everyone, from nostalgic household items to rare collectibles.

A charming display of vintage dishes, glassware, and framed artwork at Allegheny Mountain Antique Gallery in Somerset County, PA. The shelves feature a variety of porcelain teapots, platters, glass bowls, and decorative plates in floral patterns, alongside small collectibles and figurines. Framed needlepoint and cross-stitch artwork adorn the wall above, depicting floral arrangements, landscapes, and pastoral scenes that add a cozy, nostalgic touch. The setup, with its eclectic mix of items, invites visitors to explore and appreciate the delicate beauty and craftsmanship of these vintage pieces in this two-story antique mall featuring nearly 40 vendors.

So there you have it – 24 of the best things to see and do in Somerset County, PA!

Lower Humbert Covered Bridge over Laurel HIll Creek in Somerset County PA — Lower Humbert Covered Bridge over Laurel Hill Creek in Somerset County.

21 Must-See Attractions in Fayette County is your guide to everything from historic forts to towering waterfalls to architectural masterpieces in this county which makes up another third of the Laurel Highlands.

Collage of four seasonal outdoor scenes in Fayette County, Pennsylvania, showcasing a hiker photographing the autumn foliage, Fallingwater house surrounded by winter snow, a photographer capturing a frozen waterfall, and a person jogging on a wooden bridge amidst vibrant fall colors. — Scenes from Fayette County.

23 Must-See Attractions in Westmoreland County is your guide to this neighboring county which makes up the final third of the Laurel Highlands.

Mortar outside the Fort Ligonier museum. — Fort Ligonier in Westmoreland County.

17 Must-See Attractions in Cambria County is your guide to the best things to see and do in Somerset County’s neighbor to the north.

The view from the Johnstown Inclined Plane in Cambria County PA — The view from the top of the Johnstown Inclined Plane in Cambria County.

7 Man-Made Wonders of the PA Laurel Highlands is your guide to the 7 most iconic structures in the region.

The Jumonville Cross in Fayette County is the tallest cross in Pennsylvania.

10 Must-See Winter Attractions in the PA Laurel Highlands is your guide to some of the best things to see and do in one of the snowiest places in PA!

Taking in the view from Baughman Rock Vista during Winterfest. — Taking in the view from Baughman Rock Overlook in Fayette County.

26 Best Fall Foliage Destinations in the PA Laurel Highlands is your guide to the best “leaf peeping” locations in Somerset, Fayette, and Westmoreland counties.

Fall foliage around the High Bridge at Ohiopyle State Park in the Laurel Highlands. — The Ohiopyle High Bridge in Fayette County.

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