You don’t want to be a Seton Hill University student for several years without having visited Twin Lakes. The natural beauty and completely free options for a fun day are perfect any time of year.
The first time I visited Twin Lakes, it was because of the urging of some local friends. I’ve always been a fan of parks, especially ones built around water. So on one of the first warm days of spring, a group of my friends piled into a car and drove to the lake.
The day was beautiful, the walking trails were nicely paved, but still had a feel of being in the middle of nature. There were people running, walking dogs and letting their kids play. We had rock skipping contests and played on the playground equipment. It was one of the most relaxing days of the whole school year.
In the spring, summer and early fall, the lakes are open for boating, fishing and other recreations. The cute little boathouse has rowboats, canoes and paddle boats to rent and get even closer to the water. There are walking and running trails if you’re looking for a relaxing stroll or a more challenging outdoor run.
After a day of classes or on a free weekend, it’s nice to spend a couple of hours just walking around, reliving your childhood on one of the playgrounds or practicing your rock skipping skills. The stress of school can get overwhelming, but it all seems to disappear when walking around the lakes in the forest. A cool breeze on a warm day is more refreshing than almost anything else.
With a couple of friends, you feel the relaxation that nature can uniquely provide. Sometimes students get so holed up on campus that they forget what beauty resides just 15 minutes away. I’ve even considered doing homework at the lakes, because the fresh air is so inspiring. A picnic lunch, too, could be a nice treat.
If you’re around Greensburg for the summer, Twin Lakes hosts Westmoreland Arts and Heritage Festival and a Summer Concert Series that brings more free entertainment.
I’ve even spent some winter time out at the lakes. After bundling up in a thick scarf and gloves, the walking is just as nice. Everything looks spectacularly beautiful covered in a dusting of snow, and as long as it isn’t too cold, the outside time can be refreshing as well.
No matter what, you’re going to want to check out Twin Lakes if you haven’t before. The park is open until dusk and if you enjoy the outdoors, it’s a great place to visit during the school year.