Hiking the Highlands The Tribune-Democrat

On this special spooky episode of Hiking the Highlands the Somerset County legend of Jacob Thomas, his seven devils and hidden treasure, is explored, as well as how the myth has changed through the years.

Prince Gallitzin State Park Manager Jessica Lavelua acts as a guide through the more than 6,000 acre green space and all of its amenities from fishing, boating and hiking to camping and snowmobiling in this episode of Hiking the Highlands. The park is located in the northern part of Cambria County.

With just miles to go, Tribune-Democrat reporters Russ O'Reilly, Joshua Byers and photographer John Rucosky connect once more with GO Laurel Highlands Public Relations Director Eric Knopsnyder to finish the 70-mile journey on the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail in the final episode of Woodland Wanderings, a special Hiking the Highlands series.

Tribune-Democrat photographer John Rucosky is back with GO Laurel Highlands Public Relations Director Eric Knopsnyder for the next section of the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail and this time T-D reporter Russ O'Reilly tags along for the roughly 30-mile trek. Tune in to find out how this outing went and who we run into along the way in this episode of Woodland Wanderings.

In this episode of Hiking the Highlands, myself, Tribune-Democrat photographer John Rucosky and Go Laurel Highlands Director of Public Relations Eric Knopsnyder attempt a three-day backpacking trip on the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail as part of a special report and partnership between the two entities. This is the first in a three-part series. Check www.tribdem.com for photos, stories, video and more.

Ever wonder who planted the seed for Cambria County to grow into one of the best hiking areas in the state? It was local trail legend Laurie Lafontaine and in this episode she sits down with me at the Dillweed Bed and Breakfast in Dilltown, Indiana County, to share her story and how many of the local pathways came to be. That ranges from her position as the trails head for abandoned railways and trail development for America's Industrial Heritage Project to development of the Great Allegheny Passage, the legacy of her advocacy and much more.