
Laurel Mountain Ski Area
Experience Pennsylvania's steepest slope at Laurel Mountain Ski Area, a relaxed resort with a high vertical drop and cozy lodge.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fresh snow & fewer crowds

Laurel Mountain Ski Area
Best Time
Fresh snow & fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience Pennsylvania's steepest slope at Laurel Mountain Ski Area, a relaxed resort with a high vertical drop and cozy lodge.
"A hidden gem with a laid-back vibe and the steepest slope in PA, perfect for a fun, uncrowded ski day."

Check Snow Report First
Snowfall is weather-dependent. Always check the Laurel Mountain snow report before heading out! :cloud:
Gear Up for Snowboarding
No snowboard repair/merch shops. Ensure your gear is ready or rent elsewhere. :snowboarder:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Steepest Slope in PA
Main runs
Experience the thrill of Pennsylvania's steepest ski slope, offering a challenging descent for experienced skiers.

Cozy Mountain Lodge
Base area
Relax by the large stone fireplace in the beautiful lodge, enjoying delicious food and drinks after a day on the slopes.

Cross Country Trails
Designated XC areas
Explore scenic winter landscapes on the dedicated cross-country ski trails, offering a peaceful alternative to downhill skiing.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Laid-Back Vibe
Snow Conditions & Gear
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Snow Report First
Snowfall is weather-dependent. Always check the Laurel Mountain snow report before heading out! :cloud:
Gear Up for Snowboarding
No snowboard repair/merch shops. Ensure your gear is ready or rent elsewhere. :snowboarder:
Easy Parking & Access
Enjoy hassle-free parking right near the lodge. :car:
Try the Wildcat Stew
A crowd-pleaser! Kids (and adults!) love the hearty Wildcat stew at the lodge pub. :stew:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Snow Report First
Snowfall is weather-dependent. Always check the Laurel Mountain snow report before heading out! :cloud:
Gear Up for Snowboarding
No snowboard repair/merch shops. Ensure your gear is ready or rent elsewhere. :snowboarder:
Easy Parking & Access
Enjoy hassle-free parking right near the lodge. :car:
Try the Wildcat Stew
A crowd-pleaser! Kids (and adults!) love the hearty Wildcat stew at the lodge pub. :stew:
Steepest Slope Challenge
For experienced skiers: tackle PA's steepest slope! Beginners may find it challenging. :mountain_cableway:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Laurel Mountain Ski Area is praised for its laid-back vibe, highest vertical drop in the region, and cozy lodge with a great fireplace and pub. Visitors appreciate the easy parking and friendly atmosphere, making it a good family-friendly option. However, some snowboarders find the initial flat area challenging, and snow conditions are more dependent on natural snowfall.
"We love this place for ours laid back vibe. Despite having only one lift, the vertical drop is the highest of the three resorts. It's a tiny place but super fun. Parking is so easy! The lodge is very conveniently located. There are two food options. The downstairs pub is great if you want to hang out for some time. Kids love the Wildcat stew. There's less snow making than at seven springs and hidden valley so snow is dependent on the weather but every time we've gone we've been happy."
Ramin Ostad
"let me start by saying im a snowboarder 😅
this is not the place for us. the flat football field length area before getting to the runs is exhausting.
some decent runs but very small.
beautiful lodge, my Moscow mule was delicious!
i hear it has the steepest slope in PA but i went on my 6th day of snowboarding ever... was not ready for that yet"
Kaylin M.
"So great to have Laurel Mountain thriving and with a great natural snow season. I visited on Snowmobile and they are quite welcoming with great atmosphere and food selection. Live music in the evenings and the large stone fire place make a great setting."
Tom Cushing
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Laurel Mountain Ski Area is located in the Laurel Highlands of Pennsylvania. It's about an hour's drive from Pittsburgh and 3.5 hours from Washington D.C.. Driving is the most common way to access the resort, with ample parking available near the lodge. Check local road conditions, especially during winter months.
Public transport options directly to Laurel Mountain Ski Area are limited. It's primarily a destination for those traveling by car. Consider ride-sharing services if you're coming from a nearby city, but confirm availability beforehand.
The best route will depend on your starting point. From Pittsburgh, take I-76 E and then US-30 E. From Washington D.C., take I-70 W and then US-30 W. Always use a GPS for real-time traffic updates.
The closest major airport is Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT), approximately 1.5 hours away. From there, you would need to rent a car or arrange for private transportation to reach Laurel Mountain Ski Area.
Parking at Laurel Mountain Ski Area is described as easy and conveniently located right across from the ski resort.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Laurel Mountain lift tickets can typically be purchased at the resort's ticket window. Some sources mention it being part of the Epic Pass, so check their website for current pass options and pricing for Laurel Mountain ski pass.
Laurel Mountain ski hours can vary by season and day. It's best to check the official Laurel Mountain ski hours on their website or social media channels before your visit, as they often have specific operating times for weekdays and weekends.
Yes, Laurel Mountain does offer season passes, often referred to as a Laurel Mountain season pass. These can provide significant savings if you plan to visit multiple times throughout the winter season.
Discounts for Laurel Mountain lift tickets might be available through various promotions or if you hold a specific pass like the Epic Pass. It's worth checking their website or contacting them directly for any ongoing deals.
Laurel Mountain boasts the highest vertical drop of the three resorts in the area, measuring 761 feet. This makes it an attractive spot for those seeking a more challenging ski experience.
🎫 ⛷️ Onsite Experience
Laurel Mountain is known for having some decent runs, including Pennsylvania's steepest slope. While it's a smaller resort, it offers a good challenge for skiers and snowboarders looking for an adrenaline rush.
Some snowboarders find Laurel Mountain challenging due to a flat, football-field-length area before the main runs, which can be exhausting. However, others have had positive experiences, especially with good instructors available.
Yes, Laurel Mountain offers cross country ski trails, providing a more serene way to enjoy the winter landscape. You can find information on the Laurel Mountain cross country ski routes and maps on their official resources.
The Laurel Mountain Lodge is a beautiful, cozy space featuring a large stone fireplace. It offers food options, including a downstairs pub, and has been noted for its great atmosphere, especially with live music.
Laurel Mountain is considered a great smaller, family-friendly resort. The instructors are noted as great, and the relaxed environment makes it a good choice for a fun day of skiing or snowboarding.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Laurel Mountain offers two food options. The downstairs pub is a popular spot for hanging out, and the 'Wildcat stew' is a highly recommended dish, especially for kids.
Yes, the lodge offers drinks. One visitor specifically mentioned enjoying a delicious Moscow mule at the lodge.
Specific vegetarian or vegan options are not detailed in the provided reviews. It's advisable to check with the lodge directly or look at their menu online if you have dietary restrictions.
While not explicitly stated, most ski resorts allow you to bring your own snacks and non-alcoholic beverages. However, for full meals, utilizing the lodge's dining options is recommended.
The lodge pub is described as a great place to hang out, especially with live music and a large stone fireplace creating a cozy atmosphere.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning winter landscapes from the top of the slopes, especially on a clear day. The cozy lodge with its stone fireplace also makes for warm, inviting photos.
Drone usage policies can vary. It's essential to check with Laurel Mountain Ski Area management regarding any restrictions or permit requirements for flying drones on their property.
The summit of the mountain offers panoramic views of the surrounding Laurel Highlands, making it a prime spot for scenic photography.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for capturing the ski area and its surroundings. Midday can be good for capturing action shots on the slopes.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain views, while a telephoto lens can be useful for action shots of skiers and snowboarders. A durable, weather-sealed camera is advisable for winter conditions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏂 Snowboarders Seeking a Challenge
🌲 Cross Country Ski Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Laurel Mountain for Snowboarders
Despite these considerations, many snowboarders have found Laurel Mountain to be a welcoming place. Instructors are noted as being great, and the overall atmosphere is relaxed and friendly. If you're looking for a less crowded mountain with a challenging pitch, Laurel Mountain can be a rewarding destination. Just be prepared for the initial traverse and ensure your gear is up to par. The beautiful lodge and the potential for live music in the evenings also add to the overall appeal, making it a place where you can enjoy the mountain and then relax in comfort.
The Charm of Laurel Mountain Lodge
Dining at the lodge is a highlight, with two distinct options available. The downstairs pub is a popular choice for those looking to relax and socialize, and it's here that you can find the much-talked-about 'Wildcat stew,' a hearty dish that has become a favorite among visitors, especially families. Beyond the food, the lodge has been known to host live music in the evenings, further enhancing its appeal as a place to unwind and enjoy the mountain experience. The combination of comfortable seating, good food, and entertainment makes the Laurel Mountain Lodge a significant part of the overall visitor experience.
Exploring Laurel Mountain's Cross Country Trails
While specific trail maps and difficulty ratings are best found on the official Laurel Mountain XC ski resources, the general consensus is that these trails offer a beautiful way to experience the natural surroundings. It's a great option for individuals or groups who prefer a slower pace and the opportunity to immerse themselves in the quiet beauty of a snow-covered forest. Remember to dress in layers suitable for aerobic activity and check trail conditions before you set out.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit