Attraction of the Week: Ohiopyle State Park
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One of Pennsylvania’s largest and most popular state parks, Ohiopyle, is an easy daytrip from Pittsburgh. If you find yourself tiring of the congestion, crazy traffic and drivers, and urban scene, then I recommend hopping in your car and spend the day at this peaceful oasis.
The 20,000+ acre natural oasis is one of the most visited state parks in the region with over a million tourists visiting per year. Most notably, the Youghiogheny River Gorge runs through the center of the park and provides some of the best whitewater rafting conditions in the region. Mike and I came here mainly to see the 2 waterfalls and hike a few nature trails, but really there is a lot to do here if you are into hiking, biking, and rafting. We would love to plan a rafting trip in the future. Also, we love biking and saw a great path running throught the park.
Ohiopyle Falls
This powerful 20 foot tall waterfall is located right next to the visitor’s center. What the waterfall lacks in height it makes up for in width. The serene setting on the Youghiogheny River creates a picture-perfect scene. There are numerous observation decks to take in this beauty.
I loved just standing there listening to the water roaring – it’s so powerful. Best of all, no hiking is required. To see most waterfalls, you usually have to hike at least a short distance but this one is easily viewed. If you can get out here during the fall season, you will get to enjoy some bonus colorful foliage surrounding the falls.
Cucumber Falls
You can also see Cucumber Falls via a short hike of less than a half mile. The trek is fairly easily although it involves climbing a few staircases. It’s worth the little effort to see this 30 foot tall single drop beauty. While this is far from the tallest waterfall in the state (Dingman’s claims that title at 130 ft), the easy accessibility and beautiful natural setting place this one high on my bucket list.
Natural waterslides
During the summer months, kids come to swim in the Meadow Run natural waterslides. The natural sandstone provides a smooth surface for sliding although injuries do occasionally happen. Be sure to check the warning sign before heading out.
While the water appears quite rough during the fall and winter season, the water calms down during the summer months. For those seeking a cheap alternative to the waterparks, here’s a summer cool down that will cost you nothing.
Note that water volume varies dramatically and slide conditions will depend on the current water levels. Do check the water quality report prior to your visit.
Other park activities
Biking – A 27 mile portion of the Great Allegheny Passage runs through the park. At Ohiopyle, this section of the trail called the Youghiogheny River Trail is also used for jogging and cross country skiing in winter. Bike rentals are available.
Hiking – There are 79 miles of trails within the park hiking system. Hiking is a wonderful way to get in a workout while enjoying the beauty of the Laurel Highlands. Trails range from easy nature walks to all day adventures. Take a look at this trail map to plan your adventure.
Whitewater rafting – Class III and IV rapids. Learn more about guided tours.
Trout fishing, picnicking, winter sledding and snowmobiling, and horseback riding trails provide even more opportunity for year-round recreation in a beautiful setting.
For a full guide to park activities, visit the Park website.
Location/hours
The park is located at 124 Main St. in Ohiopyle. Parking is free and there is a large lot. Be aware that the park can get really busy, so I recommend arriving early especially during the summer season. If you are coming from Pittsburgh, the drive will take about an hour and 15 min.
There is a handy little map guiding you to major park attractions. Alternatively, you can stop in the visitor’s center and pick up a map. You have the option of driving or walking to various sites of interest.
Dining
As the park is located in the middle of nowhere, there is not much in the way of restaurants anywhere in the vicinity. I stopped by a cute little local coffeehouse called Stanton Daily Grind. It’s right on the route (about 30 min in) so super convenient. While the coffee was not spectacular, it was decent enough. The setting is cozy and the baristas friendly. They also offer a number of pastries and light breakfast fare to help fuel you through the morning.
If you prefer dining before you leave, I’ll refer you to my ‘Burgh dining guide (there are some great cafes throughout the city). I recommend bringing with a picnic lunch to enjoy after your hike. If you prefer to wait until you get back to Pittsburgh to dine, Zuppa’s, Choolaah, Mike and Tony’s, and are a few of my recommended casual, easy accessible lunch destinations.
More great state parks to check out
Check out my guide to more beautiful nature escapes within an hour of the city. The great thing about living in the ‘Burgh is that you can enjoy all the city amenities but still escape to nature easily.
