Directions to Bear Run Nature Reserve, Fayette County
(Submitted by Richard Nugent)

Bear Run Nature Reserve is a 5,000-acre natural area owned and protected by the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy. It lies along the western slope of Laurel Ridge, facing the Youghiogheny River gorge. More than 20 miles of trails traverse the Reserve. Many warblers nest here including Northern Parula, Louisiana Waterthrush, Black-throated Blue Warbler and Canada Warbler.

Directions: From Pittsburgh take the Pennsylvania Turnpike east to the Donegal Exit. At the end of the exit ramp, turn left (east) on Route 31. Drive about 2.3 miles on Route 31 to Route 381. Turn right onto Route 381 and drive about 9.7 miles to Normalville. At Normalville make a left turn to stay on Route 381. Continue on Route 381 for about 6.8 miles to the Bear Run Nature Reserve on the left. Turn left into the driveway and drive a short distance to the parking lot. A trail map can be picked up here.