Ohiopyle State Park | Pittsburgh

Ohiopyle State Park — Detailed Overview

Location and Size

Ohiopyle State Park is a large natural park spanning approximately 20,500 acres in Fayette County, southwestern Pennsylvania. It lies within the Laurel Highlands region, known for its rugged hills, deep river gorges, and dense forests. The park centers around the Youghiogheny River Gorge, a dramatic river valley carved through ancient rock formations.

Natural Features

The park is renowned for its stunning waterfalls and natural waterslides, making it a top destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Key waterfalls include:

Ohiopyle Falls: A 20-foot waterfall located right near the town of Ohiopyle, offering scenic views and a popular photo spot. The falls drop directly into the Youghiogheny River and are visible from the park’s trails and river trips.

Cucumber Falls: A beautiful 36-foot waterfall on Cucumber Run, accessed via a short, easy hike along the Meadow Run Trail. The waterfall is famous for its picturesque cascade into a rocky pool surrounded by forest.

Jonathan Run Falls: A series of waterfalls along Jonathan Run, accessible via the Jonathan Run Trail. These falls provide a quieter, less crowded waterfall experience.

Sugar Run Falls: Another scenic waterfall reachable from a short trail off the Great Allegheny Passage bike trail.

Meadow Run Waterslides: Natural sandstone rock formations shaped over centuries by water, forming smooth “waterslides” where visitors can slide down into pools — a unique and fun natural feature.

Water-Based Activities

Ohiopyle is internationally famous for whitewater rafting, kayaking, and canoeing, largely due to the Youghiogheny River’s challenging rapids:

Lower Yough River: This 7-mile stretch is rated Class III to IV rapids, attracting experienced paddlers seeking thrilling whitewater runs. Rapids here include steep drops, powerful waves, and technical maneuvers.

Middle Yough River: A gentler, 8-mile section rated Class II, suitable for beginners and families wanting a more relaxed experience on the river.

Ohiopyle Falls Rapid: Near the town, this Class IV rapid requires expert skill to navigate, often featured in kayaking competitions.

Guided rafting trips and kayak rentals are available through outfitters near the park, making the river accessible for all skill levels.

Hiking Trails

Ohiopyle offers an extensive trail system for hikers of all abilities, ranging from short scenic walks to long, strenuous backpacking routes:

Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail: A renowned 70-mile long-distance trail, with about 6.3 miles running through Ohiopyle State Park. The trail passes through dense forest, rocky ridges, and offers spectacular overlooks of the river gorge.

McCune Trail: A 3.7-mile loop trail known for its varied landscapes including hardwood forest, rock formations, and small streams.

Meadow Run Trail: A 3.2-mile moderate trail following Meadow Run, passing by cascades, waterfalls, and natural waterslides, ending near the Cucumber Falls area.

Jonathan Run Trail: A quieter 1.5-mile trail leading to the Jonathan Run waterfalls, ideal for birdwatching and peaceful nature walks.

Mountain Biking

The park is a hotspot for mountain biking with over 25 miles of trails suitable for all skill levels:

Popular trails include Sugarloaf, McCune, and Meadow Run, featuring varied terrain with climbs, descents, technical sections, and scenic viewpoints.

The nearby Clay Strips area is under development with approximately 12 miles of professionally designed mountain biking trails, attracting enthusiasts from across the region.

Trails are single-track, well-maintained, and offer options for beginners through advanced riders.

Camping and Lodging

Ohiopyle State Park provides several camping options:

Kentuck Campground: The largest camping area in the park, featuring over 220 campsites with a mix of electric and non-electric options, plus group camping areas for larger gatherings.

Rustic Cottages: Scattered through the park, these simple cabins have electricity but no running water and accommodate up to five people. They offer a more comfortable camping experience for families or those who prefer shelter over tents.

Primitive camping is also available in designated backcountry areas for backpackers and wilderness enthusiasts.

Wildlife and Nature Watching

The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, thanks to its large, protected forests and river ecosystems:

Mammals include white-tailed deer, black bears, bobcats, fishers, and river otters.

Birdwatchers can find ospreys, bald eagles (occasionally), kingfishers, mergansers, and many songbird species.

The park’s varied habitats—from riverbanks and wetlands to mature forests—support rich plant life and seasonal wildflowers.

Visitor Facilities and Services

Visitor Center: Offers exhibits about the park’s natural and cultural history, maps, permits, and educational programs. Open year-round with extended hours in summer.

Picnic Areas: Several picnic shelters and areas with tables and grills are scattered throughout the park, ideal for family outings.

Restrooms and Drinking Water: Available at campgrounds and main visitor areas.

Equipment Rentals and Guided Tours: Local outfitters provide rafting, kayaking, mountain biking rentals, and guided trips.

Nearby Attractions

Fallingwater: The famous Frank Lloyd Wright-designed house, built partially over a waterfall, is just a few miles away and often combined with a visit to Ohiopyle.

Great Allegheny Passage: A 318-mile rail-trail for hiking and biking, passing through the park along the river, popular for multi-day cycling trips.

Local Town of Ohiopyle: A small mountain town with shops, restaurants, and lodging catering to visitors.

Practical Information

The park is open daily from sunrise to sunset; campgrounds operate year-round but have seasonal schedules.

Fees apply for camping and some services, while day-use areas and trails are free to access.

The terrain is rugged and weather can change quickly, so visitors should prepare accordingly with proper gear and safety measures.

Cell service is limited in many parts of the park, enhancing the feeling of wilderness.

Ohiopyle State Park offers a perfect blend of rugged outdoor adventure, scenic natural beauty, and family-friendly activities, making it one of Pennsylvania’s top destinations for year-round recreation.