The best walks and hikes around Elim
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hikes
Hiking around Elim offers routes primarily located in the broader Johnstown area, characterized by a mix of urban greenways and longer trails through natural settings. The terrain includes gentle inclines along river valleys and more significant elevation changes on longer routes, particularly within Laurel Ridge State Park. The region's hiking opportunities provide access to local landmarks and natural features.
Best hiking trails around Elim
- The most popular hiking route is Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail, a 79.5 miles (128.0 km)…
Last updated: June 26, 2026
1
hikers
2.03km
00:32
10m
30m
Embark on the Laurel Ridge Shelter Trail for an easy 1.3 miles (2.0 km) hike, where you will gain a gentle 41 feet (12 metres) in elevation. This route takes…
7.07km
01:56
70m
180m
Discover the Stackhouse Park Trail, a true hidden gem offering a tranquil escape into nature within Johnstown, Pennsylvania. This easy hiking route guides you through lush, wooded areas, where you'll…
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128km
37:00
2,990m
3,380m
Embark on the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail, a challenging 79.5-mile (128.0 km) journey that demands approximately 37 hours of hiking. You will navigate diverse landscapes, from open hardwoods and ferns…
1
hikers
11.4km
03:00
100m
100m
The Honan Avenue Trail offers a delightful escape into nature, winding through a lively wooded corridor that feels miles away from the city. This moderate 7.1-mile (11.4 km) hike, with…
4.05km
01:03
30m
30m
The Grandview Cemetery loop offers a distinctive hiking experience, blending a gentle outdoor walk with a journey through local history. You'll wander among mature trees and historical gravestones, encountering significant…
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Popular around Elim
Tips from the Community
This shelter area located north of Route 31 is one of eight strategically placed along the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail. Each shelter area has five Adirondack-style lean-to shelters, room for up to 25 tents, bathrooms, fire pits, and garbage cans. Overnight stays at shelter areas must be reserved ahead of time with Laurel Ridge State Park. There is a seasonal stream that runs through the south end of this shelter area near shelters #1 and #2 that can serve as a good water supply.
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This shelter area just off Route 653 is one of eight strategically placed along the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail. Each shelter area has five Adirondack-style lean-to shelters, room for up to 25 tents, bathrooms, fire pits, and garbage cans. Overnight stays at shelter areas must be reserved ahead of time with Laurel Ridge State Park. At this shelter area there is a water pump with untreated water in case you need to fill up your water supply.
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This shelter area just off Route 271 is one of eight strategically placed along the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail. Each shelter area has five Adirondack-style lean-to shelters, room for up to 25 tents, bathrooms, fire pits, and garbage cans. Overnight stays at shelter areas must be reserved ahead of time with Laurel Ridge State Park.
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Tucked away along Jersey Hollow Road, this trailhead connects to the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail around mile 11. There is a gravel parking lot here, and it connects to one of the quieter, less trafficked areas of the southern end of the trail. There is a kiosk with trail information and a registry box here for anyone starting the trail from this point.
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The Youghiogheny River runs parallel to the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail here around the southern terminus of the trail at Ohiopyle State Park. There are some great views and overlooks of the river along various points of the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail, especially around miles 6 and 11, but the close-up view of the river near Ohiopyle makes for a great ending or start to the trail.
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Seven Springs is a mountain ski resort with multi-use trails in the off-season. The Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail runs directly through the area and past Tahoe Lodge, with views of the nearby lake. For through hikers, this is a great spot to rest for a meal and take in some views of the highest point on the trail.
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South of Middle Fork Road, this overlook gives you a nice panorama of Fayette County, Chestnut Ridge, and even the Pittsburgh skyline in the distance.
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This 3.5-mile path, once an abandoned roadway, has been transformed into a community trail. Along the way, you'll find inviting benches for rest and interpretive signs that offer insights into the local environment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Elim?
There are currently 4 hiking routes listed around Elim on komoot. These trails offer a variety of experiences, from urban greenways to longer paths through more natural settings in the broader Johnstown area.
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes near Elim?
The terrain around Elim, primarily in the broader Johnstown area, features a mix of urban greenways, gentle inclines along river valleys, and more significant elevation changes on longer routes, particularly in areas like Laurel Ridge State Park.
Are there any easy hiking options suitable for beginners around Elim?
Yes, there are 3 easy routes available. For example, the Grandview Cemetery loop — Johnstown is a 2.5-mile (4.1 km) trail that takes about an hour, offering a gentle walk through a historic area. Another easy option is the Johnstown Greenway Trail — Johnstown.
Are there any challenging long-distance hikes near Elim?
Yes, for those seeking a challenge, the Menoher Highway to Decker Avenue Shelter via Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail — Laurel Ridge State Park is a difficult 16.7-mile (26.8 km) route. It features significant elevation gain and typically takes over 7 hours to complete.
Are there any circular hiking routes around Elim?
Yes, the Grandview Cemetery loop — Johnstown is a notable circular trail. This 2.5-mile (4.1 km) route offers a pleasant loop through a historic cemetery.
What is the typical duration for hikes in the Elim area?
Hiking durations vary significantly based on the trail's length and difficulty. Easy routes like the Grandview Cemetery loop can be completed in about an hour, while more challenging trails such as the Menoher Highway to Decker Avenue Shelter can take over 7 hours.
Are there any specific landmarks or natural features to look out for on the trails?
The trails around Elim, particularly those in the broader Johnstown area, offer access to local landmarks and natural features. For instance, the Grandview Cemetery loop takes you through a historic cemetery, while the Staple Bend Tunnel via Path of the Flood Trail leads to a significant historical tunnel.
Is Elim a good destination for family-friendly hikes?
Given the presence of several easy routes, Elim and the surrounding Johnstown area can offer suitable options for families. Trails like the Johnstown Greenway Trail are generally flat and shorter, making them accessible for various age groups.
What is the best time of year to go hiking around Elim?
While specific seasonal recommendations for Elim are limited, hiking in the broader Johnstown area is generally pleasant during spring and fall when temperatures are moderate and foliage is vibrant. Summer can be warm, and winter may bring snow, requiring appropriate gear and caution.
Are there options for public transport or parking near the trailheads?
Information regarding specific public transport options directly to trailheads around Elim is limited, as it is a remote community. Most hikers typically rely on personal vehicles. Parking availability varies by trailhead, particularly for routes located within the broader Johnstown area or state parks like Laurel Ridge.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter while hiking near Elim?
While specific wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, the natural settings of trails, especially those in wooded areas or state parks, may offer opportunities to observe local fauna. Common wildlife in Pennsylvania includes various bird species, deer, and smaller mammals.
Are there any moderate difficulty trails for experienced hikers looking for a longer outing?
Yes, the Honan Avenue Trail — Johnstown is a moderate 7.1-mile (11.4 km) path. This trail offers a mix of urban and natural scenery and takes approximately 3 hours to complete, providing a good option for those seeking a longer, yet not overly strenuous, hike.
Most popular routes around Elim
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