The best walks and hikes around Elim
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hikers
7
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) trail that takes 37 hours to complete. This difficult route features significant elevation gain through a state park.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Stackhouse Park Trail, an easy 4.4 miles (7.1 km) path. This trail offers varied terrain within a park setting.
- Local hikers also love the Grandview Cemetery loop, a 2.5 miles (4.1 km) trail leading through a historic cemetery, often completed in about 1 hour 3 minutes.
- Hiking around Elim is defined by urban greenways, river valley paths, and longer trails through wooded areas. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy strolls to more challenging long-distance routes.
- The guide includes highly-rated routes that showcase the best of the region's landscape. More than 5 hikers have used komoot to explore Elim's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 28, 2026
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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 about 32 minutes to complete, winding through beautiful deciduous forests. You can expect to see abundant mountain laurel, especially when it blooms, and vibrant spring wildflowers in early April, with stunning fall colors later in the year. Keep an eye out for interesting rock formations and scenic streams along the way.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is well-maintained and clearly marked with yellow blazes. You will find concrete mile markers along the path to help you track your progress. Parking is generally available at the Route 271 Shelter Area, which also offers convenient facilities for hikers. This makes it an ideal spot for a quick outdoor escape without much fuss.
This trail is an integral part of the much longer Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail, offering a taste of its natural beauty in a manageable segment. It provides a perfect opportunity to experience the region's unique ecosystem, whether you are looking for a short, refreshing walk or a starting point to explore more of the area's extensive trail network.
7.07km
01:56
70m
180m
Embark on an easy hike along the Stackhouse Park Trail, a 4.4-mile (7.1 km) route that takes approximately 1 hour and 55 minutes to complete. You will experience a gentle elevation gain of 224 feet (68 metres) as the trail winds through deep, wooded ravines and alongside tranquil streams. The path offers a mix of gravel and natural forest routes, with some sections presenting a slightly rugged terrain, providing picturesque views of the natural landscape.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trails within Stackhouse Park are well-marked, ensuring easy navigation. The park is home to several historic stone and wooden pavilions, which include designated fire pits, making them perfect spots for a picnic or a gathering. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the hiking paths can be varied and sometimes rocky, ensuring a pleasant experience.
This 277-acre park serves as a green oasis nestled within the suburbs of Johnstown, Pennsylvania. As you explore, you might spot various mushrooms, adding to the natural charm of the area. Consider taking the Elk Run trail, a particularly scenic option that follows a creek and is popular for leisurely walks, showcasing the park's unique features.
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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 to dense hemlock and rhododendron thickets, gaining a significant 9805 feet (2988 metres) in elevation. This difficult route offers impressive rock formations, including giant boulders and grottos, especially within State Game Lands 111. Look for rewarding vistas, such as the Middle Fork Overlook, which provide expansive views off the mountain, particularly clear in winter.
The Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail is accessible year-round, offering a consistent experience regardless of the season. The route is meticulously maintained, marked by clear yellow blazes every 100 feet, making navigation straightforward. If you plan an overnight trip, remember that reservations are mandatory for staying at any of the eight designated shelter areas along the trail. Each shelter area provides Adirondack-style shelters, tent pads, comfort stations, fireplaces, and water sources for your convenience.
This linear trail connects the Conemaugh Gorge to Ohiopyle State Park, providing a significant long-distance hiking experience. It is a well-regarded path for those seeking a multi-day adventure through Pennsylvania's natural beauty. The trail's design ensures you are immersed in varied ecosystems, from lush forests to striking geological features. Consider this route if you are looking for a sustained challenge with ample opportunities to connect with nature.
4.05km
01:03
30m
30m
Embark on the Grandview Cemetery loop, an easy hiking route that offers a peaceful escape with a touch of history. As you walk, you will discover the historical atmosphere of Grandview Cemetery, enjoying the sun and the quiet surroundings. This gentle trail covers 2.5 miles (4.1 km) with a minimal elevation gain of 93 feet (28 metres), typically taking about 1 hour and 3 minutes to complete.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as the route features easily accessible paths suitable for beginners or anyone seeking a less strenuous walk. The trail is conveniently located along Millcreek Road, right next to Stackhouse Park, providing simple access for your outing. You will find the paths are well-maintained, making for a pleasant experience throughout your hike.
The Grandview Cemetery loop provides a unique blend of gentle outdoor activity and historical exploration. Be sure to look for the Viewpoint from Grandview Cemetery, which offers broader vistas of the surrounding landscape. You can also observe notable memorials, such as the 1889 Flood Memorial Unknown Plot, adding a reflective layer to your journey.
11.4km
03:00
100m
100m
Embark on the Honan Avenue Trail for a moderate hike spanning 7.1 miles (11.4 km), where you will ascend 313 feet (95 metres) over approximately 3 hours. This route guides you through a lively wooded corridor, offering a refreshing escape into nature. As you progress, you will encounter several small waterfalls, building anticipation for the impressive Hinckston Falls located near the Hickston Run Reservoir. The atmosphere is one of peaceful immersion, with the sounds of flowing water accompanying your journey. Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife, including deer and majestic eagles, adding to the natural charm of the experience.
Before you set out on the Honan Avenue Trail, consider that while generally accessible, you might encounter unauthorized motor vehicle traffic. Despite signs prohibiting vehicles, their presence can make the trail surface uneven in certain spots, which is a safety concern for hikers. Benches are conveniently placed along the route, providing ample opportunities for you to pause and rest. Plan your visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the natural surroundings and ensure a safe return.
Beyond the natural beauty, the trail offers glimpses into the area's industrial past. About half a mile from the entrance, you can explore the historical remains of the Rosedale Coke Plant, providing a unique contrast to the surrounding wilderness. Further along, approximately one mile in, you might discover a large, active beaver dam, showcasing the dynamic ecosystem of the area. This blend of natural wonders and historical remnants makes the route a distinctive experience in Johnstown, Pennsylvania.
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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.
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