5 Beautiful Waterfalls near Pittsburgh
While Pennsylvania is not exactly a hotspot for waterfalls, there are a few breathtaking natural wonders across the state. The tallest waterfalls in the state (Dingmans at 130 ft and Raymondskill at 178 ft) are both located in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area in the Poconos. The most easily accessible waterfalls are found within a quick drive of Pittsburgh. If you find yourself visiting the city and seeking a quick natural break from the urban congestion, there are plenty of beautiful state parks within an easy drive. Take a look at 5 gorgeous waterfalls located within an easy 1 hour drive from Pittsburgh.
Cucumber Falls
Location: Ohiopyle State Park
Cucumber is one of the most mesmerizing, although far from the tallest waterfall in the state. While the waterfall stands a mere 30 feet, the lush setting inside beautiful Ohiopyle State Park can not be matched. Best of all, the waterfall is easily viewable via a simple hike of just over a quarter mile. As Ohiopyle State Park offers 79 miles of hiking trails, a fantastic paved bike trail, and the best whitewater rafting in the state, there are plenty of activities to justify the hour long drive from Pittsburgh.
Address: 124 Main St, Ohiopyle, PA 15470
Hells Hollow
Location: McConnells Mill State Park
Hells Hollow is one of many beautiful wonders located within McConnells Mill State Park. With a historic covered bridge, beautiful wooded trails, waterfalls, amazing leaf peeping in the fall, and a historic grist mill, McConnells is easily the best state park to visit in western Pennsylvania. During your visit, you will definitely want to plan for the short half mile scenic hike to Hells Hollow, a small yet wide and attractive waterfall located in a beautiful forested setting.
Address: 496 Bestwick Rd, Mercer, PA 16137
Fall Run Falls
Location: Fall Run Park
This hidden gem is located just 15 minutes north of the city in the small rural town of Glenshaw. Although the park is located within the town limits, the trail is very rustic and peaceful, As soon as you start the walk, you will get to rejuvenate and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature in a quiet setting. The highlight here is a small, yet beautiful 18 foot waterfall accessible via an easy 1 mile long nature trail. As this is the tallest waterfall near the city, it’s worth the drive. Visit during leaf peeping season to enjoy the vivid foliage.
Address: 187 Fall Run Rd, Glenshaw, PA 15116
Ohiopyle Falls
Location: Ohiopyle State Park
Gorgeous Ohiopyle Falls, easily viewable with no hiking required, is one of the mesmerizing sights that draws thousands of visitors to Ohiopyle State Park each year. This beauty is not very tall, coming in around 20 feet, however, the width stretches across the Youghiogheny River. There are a number of observing areas where you can take in the waterfall at different angles. While this state park is worth visiting just to see this spectacular waterfall, there’s much more to do including sliding down natural sandstone waterslides, hiking, whitewater rafting, fishing, and picnicking.
Address: 124 Main St, Ohiopyle, PA 15470
Mineral springs waterfall
Location: Racoon Creek State Park
Racoon Creek State Park is located just minutes away from the Pittsburgh airport. Although planes are constantly landing, it’s a quiet place that sees minimal foot traffic. The best trail here is the Mineral Springs loop which will take you past the remains of a historic healing resort. There is a small waterfall and lovely creek views along this 1.5 mile trek. Racoon Creek is a great year-round destination with leaf peeping popular during the fall, hiking in the spring and summer, and cross country skiing in the winter.
Address: 3000 PA-18, Hookstown, PA 15050
