LHHT Quest participants complete 70 miles

The Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail is 70 miles long and 10 folks from the LHHT Quest completed all 70 over the course of this spring and summer. Some of their comments can be found below:

What was your favorite part about the LHHT Quest series?

Right off of the top of my head I would have to say it was the people I met! People with the same interests as me and together we had a goal to meet, which we accomplished by finishing the trail. It gave me a great sense of accomplishment.
~Phil

My favorite part of the LHHT Quest series was the moments when the group had thinned out over the course of the day while hiking and I got the feeling that I was immersed in and experiencing the beauty of nature, yet still close enough to others to feel safe. When the sun shone through the trees dappling the ground cover and the trail itself, and I was surrounded by all the greenery and sounds of the ‘wild,’ I felt liberated from my day-to-day stress. I also enjoyed seeing the huge rock formations–a very primal connection to nature, in my opinion.

Of course, it would not have been possible to enjoy these things, since I am not an experienced hiker, without the expert leaders we had. Kenn and Nanci were wonderful–extremely knowledgeable of the trail and always offering encouragement and support when the going got a little rocky!
~Jen

The Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail is like the superhighway of hiking trails
in western Pennsylvania. It is artfully laid out and meticulously
maintained. One advantage is that it connects with about a gazillion other
trails in the Highlands so it’s easy to build lots of loop hikes utilizing
this trail.

Hiking the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail has always been loads of fun
because it is easy to follow and covers some of the most beautiful areas of
our state. I personally appreciate the clear goal of hiking the LHHT:
‘Hey, let’s hike 70 miles!’

My favorite part was the folks who hiked the Quest. I’ve always believed
that the best people are to be found on the trail and after hiking the Quest
series with the same people throughout the summer, I’m sure of it. And
thanks to VO for the opportunity to lead the Quest!
~Kenn, Trip Leader

What did you learn or gain as a result of participating in this series?

I gained an unbelievable experience for both body and soul with spectacular scenery, great people and two of the best leaders in the outdoors.
~Kevin