How to have a mountaintop experience in 2025
In Other News #8 // Uplifting, politics-free feature stories.
View from atop the Mount Davis fire tower, highest point in Pa.
That feeling of being on top of the world? Setting a high goal? This New Year might be a great time to remember that great things are attainable by taking one step at a time.
One very real way to experience this is by hiking up a mountain. Nature lovers have established a new trend over the past few years: There’s been an upswing in hikers climbing the highest peaks in each of the 50 states.
Pennsylvania’s version is Mount Davis, and I was thrilled to discover, explore and hike to the top recently. But I was also struck by a contrast. The highest point in the state might paradoxically be one of the most rural, undiscovered gems of Pennsylvania.
Located in southern Somerset County, near the Mason-Dixon line, Mt. Davis soars to 3,213 feet. I use the word “soar,” loosely. Compared to other states’ pinnacles—especially out west—our record-setting mountain is relatively low. But Mt. Davis’ views are top-notch. Just know that you’ll need to channel your inner Robert Frost, and enjoy taking some roads less traveled, to get there. It’s all part of the experience.
Here’s how to get there and your options for exploring Mt. Davis—through the wisdom and advice of the region’s experts, including the forester who’s helped others discover Mt. Davis’ beauty for more than 20 years.
Somerset County, Pa.
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