Loyalhanna is part of Westmoreland County's rich history
Located in the Laurel Mountains, Loyalhanna takes its name from the creek winding through its heart. Just west of Latrobe, the birthplace of the banana split and Arnold Palmer, it's part of a network of small communities. "Latrobe is the bigger city, but it's not really big either," says Jackie Jaffre, co-owner of Jaffres Stone Bar & Kitchen, which operates here. "They are all just good people. They work hard," she says, when describing neighbors. The town is within Westmoreland County, a region with industrial and agricultural roots that served as a key battleground during the French and Indian War.
Mature trees, forest views and eclectic streetscapes
Unlike traditional suburban communities with meticulously manicured lawns, Loyalhanna's neighborhoods are less uniform. The area showcases a variety of architecture, including ranch styles, cottages, Colonial Revivals and craftsman bungalows. Often, there is a medley on one residential road on everything from small to spacious lots. Some residences show signs of age and weathering; others have been carefully maintained over time. Mature trees and forest views also shape the neighborhood's feel. Most homes are priced between approximately $110,000 and $390,000, depending on their size and condition. The median sales price is $153,450 compared to $200,000 in Latrobe.
Two school districts and a career center
Students typically attend either the Greater Latrobe School District or the Derry Area School District. Greater Latrobe School District, which serves more than 3,300 students, earns an A rating on Niche. Derry Area School District accommodates over 1,700 students and holds a B minus. Students can learn job-ready skills At the Eastern Westmoreland Career and Technology Center.
Parks built around Loyalhanna Creek in nearby Latrobe
Most parks are in Latrobe, a short drive away. Loyalhanna Creek meanders past several of them, including Legion-Keener Park, with its scenic multiuse trail, sports courts and fields, and a sprawling playground. The creek itself is a popular paddling and fishing spot. The Pittsburgh Steelers play an annual "Friday Night Lights" practice at Latrobe Memorial Stadium, drawing a crowd to watch them play. Latrobe Memorial Pool is a spot to splash in the summer. Youth teams play at Latrobe-Derry Area Teener League, which was renovated in 2024 and now includes a new batting cage and improved dugouts. Latrobe Elks Lodge Golf Club's championship course is open to the public. Latrobe Country Club, where Arnold Palmer learned the game, is private.
A few local restaurants and bars, but more options nearby
Loyalhanna offers a few inviting spots for food and drink. In 2022, Jaffres Stone Bar & Kitchen opened its third location here. "It's a little upscale comfort food restaurant," Jaffre says. "We have pasta dishes, a pot roast dinner, some really good salads and sandwiches." Comradery and drinks are shared at The White House Club, where people gather to play pool in the evening. Lucky B's Bar and Grill serves classics such as stromboli and wings in a relaxed setting. Weiss Furniture, several auto repair shops and a landscape supply store are in town. Next door, in Latrobe, shoppers can find an Aldi, Giant Eagle Supermarket, pizzerias and a few fast-food spots including Dunkin'.
Touring American history and celebrating the banana split
History buffs can visit Fort Ligonier on a whim. Around 10 miles away, the tourist attraction was a key British outpost during the French Indian War. In August, locals look forward to The Great American Banana Split Celebration, hosted in Latrobe. Highlights of the event include a banana-eating competition and the crowning of the banana split princess.
Greensburg, Saltsburg and Pittsburgh are within reach
Industrial Boulevard and Hillview Avenue are the main roads in town, with Hillview Avenue connecting south to U.S. Route 30. Greensburg and Saltsburg are within 15 miles of Loyalhanna, while Pittsburgh is 40 miles away. Westmoreland Transit Authority offers shared and fixed-route services in the county. The park-and-ride to Pittsburgh begins at Arnold Palmer Regional Airport, under 5 miles away.
Countywide flooding in 2024
In 2024, heavy rain caused widespread flooding in Westmoreland County, closing down roads, flooding homes and sparking emergency responses. While the hardest hit towns were around 30 miles from Loyalhanna, nearby Latrobe was affected, leading to at least one home rescue.
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Written By
Kathryn Ashworth
