Begin your tour in Irwin, Westmoreland County, heading east on Route 30. The road follows the fast moving Loyalhanna Creek through the gorgeous Chestnut Ridge before coming to the charming town of Ligonier. Nearby, Fort Ligonier is an on-site reconstruction of a British fort from the French and Indian War with a modern museum. Continue on Route 30 through Jennerstown toward Bedford. About ten miles west of Bedford, the gorgeous landscape of Shawnee State Park beckons as a wonderful place to stop off for a picnic. Just past the park outside of the small town of Manns Choice, you'll find Coral Caverns, the only fossilized coral reef cavern known to be in existence. They are still open for tours on weekends in October, so consider a stop and don't forget your camera! Then get in your car and continue the drive to the historic town of Bedford, with houses and churches that will remind you of Colonial America. While in Bedford, make time for a stop at Old Bedford Village or the Bedford County Fall Foliage Festival.
Want more? A delightful 1 1/2 hour side trip will take you on a tour of six of Bedford County's 14 covered bridges.
