PA State Parks

20 of the Best Things to Do at Ohiopyle State Park

Scenes from Ohiopyle State Park in Pennsylvania. — Scenes from Ohiopyle State Park.

If you’re looking for the best things to see and do at Ohiopyle State Park, you’re in the right place!

The observation platforms at Ohiopyle Falls in Fayette County PA — The observation platforms at Ohiopyle Falls.

I’ve visited Ohiopyle State Park more than any other state park in PA over the past five decades, so I feel fully qualified to share with you some of my favorite things to see and do there, based upon personal experience.

Fly fisherman at Flat Rock along the Meadow Run Trail. — Fly fishing at Flat Rock along the Meadow Run Trail.

If you love rugged natural beauty and exhilarating outdoor adventure, here are 20 of the best things to see and do at Ohiopyle State Park.

Checking out Cucumber Falls during Winterfest at Ohiopyle State Park. — Checking out Cucumber Falls on a winter day.

Simply click on the blue text links, where applicable, to view more in-depth articles I’ve written about each destination.

Fall foliage around the High Bridge at Ohiopyle State Park in the Laurel Highlands. — The High Bridge at Ohiopyle State Park.

1. Visit Ohiopyle Falls

Ohiopyle Falls, sometimes referred to as the “Niagara Falls of Western Pennsylvania”, lies at the very heart of Ohiopyle State Park.

A young couple enjoying the magnificent view at the Ohiopyle Falls overlook along the Ferncliff Trail. — A young couple enjoying the day at Ohiopyle Falls.

With a drop of 20 feet and a width spanning the entire Youghiogheny River, Ohiopyle Falls is one of the most visited and most photographed tourist attractions in the Laurel Highlands.

A magnificent autumn sunrise over Ohiopyle Falls.

So certainly it stands to reason that visiting Ohiopyle Falls starts off this list of the 20 best things to see and do at Ohiopyle State Park.

A winter view of Ohiopyle Falls from the Observation Deck.

2. Watch the Sunrise at Baughman Rock Overlook

Baughman Rock Overlook is one of the most spectacular mountain vistas in the Laurel Highlands, and is perfectly positions to catch a gorgeous sunrise over Ohiopyle State Park.

The author photographing an autumn sunrise at Baughman Rock Overlook.

Baughman Rock Overlook offers tremendous bang for your buck – miles of views just a few yards from a roadside parking area.

Morning sun rays piercing the fog at Baughman Rock Overlook at Ohiopyle State Park. — Morning sun rays piercing the fog at Baughman Rock Overlook.

Those factors make watching the sunrise at Baughman Rock Overlook an easy recommendation for one of the best things to do at Ohiopyle State Park.

The author photographing a late winter sunrise at Baughman Rock Overlook. — The author at Baughman Rock Overlook, just before sunrise.

3. Visit the Visitors Center

The Visitor Center at Ohiopyle State Park is perched on the banks of the Youghiogheny River, right next to Ohiopyle Falls.

The Visitor Center at Ohiopyle State Pak along the banks of the Youghiogheny River — The Visitor Center at Ohiopyle State Park along the banks of the Youghiogheny River.

Aside from being a great place to pick up trail maps and souvenirs, the Visitor Center is home to two floors of exhibits detailing the history of the park.

Inside the Visitor Center at Ohiopyle State Park. — Inside the Visitor Center.

So be sure to put a trip to the Visitor Center on your list of things to do at Ohiopyle State Park.

Entrance to the Visitor Center at Ohioyle State Park. — Entrance to the Visitor Center.

4. Whitewater Boating at Ohiopyle State Park

People come from around the world to experience whitewater boating at Ohiopyle State Park.

Whitewater rafting the Youghiogheny River at Ohiopyle State Park. — Whitewater rafting the Youghiogheny River.

The Youghiogheny River has sections of exciting whitewater boating for all experience levels.

Kayakers congregated near Ohiopyle Falls.

And there are several outfitter services in the town of Ohiopyle that will provide both the gear and guides to help, even you if you’re a total beginner.

Whitewater rafting on the Youghiogheny River is prime reason people visit Ohiopyle State Park. — Guided whitewater rafting trips on the Youghiogheny River are a prime reason people visit Ohiopyle State Park.

5. Hike the Jonathan Run Trail

The Jonathan Run Trail is, for my money, the best waterfall hike in western PA!

Selfie at Lower Jonathan Run Falls, Ohiopyle State Park — The author at Lower Jonathan Run Falls.

Featuring 4 exceptional waterfalls and numerous smaller water features, this 4 mile hike is a beautiful workout any time of year.

A winter scene at Upper Jonathan Run Falls at Ohiopyle State Park — A winter scene at Upper Jonathan Run Falls.

If I could pick only one hike to go on my list of the best things to do at Ohiopyle State Park, the Jonathan Run Trail would be that hike!

A selfie at Upper Jonathan Run Falls, Ohiopyle State Park. — The author at Upper Jonathan Run Falls.

6. Visit Cucumber Falls

Cucumber Falls at Ohiopyle State Park is arguably the most photogenic and most photographed waterfall in western Pennsylvania!

An autumn view of Cucumber Falls at Ohiopyle State Park. — Cucumber Falls on an autumn day.

This graceful 30 foot-tall waterfall looks magnificent in all seasons.

And what’s extra-special about this almost-roadside attraction is that you can stand BEHIND it, for a very unique experience!

Rusty Glessner behind Cucumber Falls. — The author behind Cucumber Falls.

If I could visit only one waterfall at Ohiopyle State Park, Cucumber Falls would be the one!

7. Picnic at Tharp Knob

Tharp Knob at Ohiopyle State Park is a spacious picnic area with a nearby scenic overlook that gives you an outstanding view of the town of Ohiopyle.

Tharp Knob Overlook is one of the scenic vistas at Ohiopyle State Park. — Tharp Knob Overlook near the picnic area.

From Tharp Knob you have a clear view of the Youghiogheny River, and can occasionally see a train passing through town as well.

8. Surf the Natural Waterslides

The Natural Waterslides at Ohiopyle State Park give you a chance to careen down Meadow Run through chutes of sandstone carved out over the millennia.

Water rushing through the Natural Water Slides at Ohiopyle State Park. — Water rushing through the Natural Waterslides.

Keep in mind there are no lifeguards on duty and this is strictly a DO THIS AT YOUR OWN RISK ACTIVITY!

Caution sign near the Natural Water Slides at Ohiopyle State Park. — Caution sign near the Natural Waterslides.

Even if you aren’t that adventurous, the Natural Waterslides are a beautiful 4-season attraction, located right along the main street through Ohiopyle.

The Natural Waterslides at Ohiopyle State Park on a winter afternoon. — The Natural Waterslides on a winter afternoon.

9. Hike the Meadow Run Trail

The Meadow Run Trail at Ohiopyle State Park is a 1.85 mile loop hike featuring waterfalls, enormous rock formations, fossils, and all-around gorgeous Laurel Highlands scenery.

An autumn view of Meadow Run at Ohiopyle State Park. — An autumn view from the Meadow Run Trail.

The Upper and Lower Cascades are two of the more unique waterfalls you’ll find along the Meadow Run Trail, and are great hiking destinations in all seasons.

The Lower Cascades on Meadow Run at Ohiopyle State Park. — The Lower Cascades along the Meadow Run Trail.

10. Hunt for Wildflowers

Ohiopyle State Park is a bonanza for wildflower lovers, from early spring through the fall.

Wildflowers at Ohiopyle State Park. — Wildflowers near Bruner Run at the park.

Whether it’s along a trail or near a waterfall, you’ll find a amazing array of colorful blooms at Ohiopyle State Park.

A summer side view of Ohiopyle Falls. — Summer blooms emerging near Ohiopyle Falls.

11. Hike the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail

The Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail is a 70 mile-long trail that stretches along the Laurel Ridge from Ohiopyle to Johnstown, and 6.3 miles of the trail passes through Ohiopyle State Park, passing the famous Youghiogheny River Overlook in the process.

The Youghiogheny River Overlook along the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail.

12. Walk Across the Ohiopyle High Bridge

The Ohiopyle High Bridge towers 115 feet above the Youghiogheny River at Ohiopyle State Park.

Autumn view of the Ohiopyle High Bridge over the Youghiogheny River.

Completed in 1912, the Ohiopyle High Bridge stretches 663 feet across the river valley below.

Fall foliage around the High Bridge over the Youghiogheny River along the Great Allegheny Passage. — Fall foliage around the High Bridge over the Youghiogheny River, along the Great Allegheny Passage.

Originally built to carry freight trains, the Ohiopyle High Bridge offers up some of the finest river views along the Great Allegheny Passage, the rail trail which now crosses over it.

View of the Youghiogheny River from the Ohiopyle High Bridge.

13. Hike the Ferncliff Trail

The Ferncliff Trail takes you on a 1.8 mile loop hike around the perimeter of the Ferncliff Peninsula, an ecological wonder and a Registered Natural Landmark.

Ferncliff Peninsula Natural Area plaque.

From the Ferncliff Trail, you’ll have many exceptional views of the Youghiogheny River as it flows along the banks of the peninsula for virtually the entire hike.

The Ohiopyle Low Bridge over the Youghioghney River as viewed from downstream along the Ferncliff Trail. — The Ohiopyle Low Bridge over the Youghiogheny River, as viewed from the Ferncliff Trail.

This is a great hike for the entire family, with very little elevation change and a well-worn trail to follow.

The Ferncliff Trail at Ohiopyle State Park. — The Ferncliff Trail.

14. Get a History Lesson

Did you know George Washington (yes THAT George Washington) once tried to navigate the Youghiogheny River at present-day Ohiopyle State Park standing upright on a wooden raft?!

George Washington attempted a standing descent of the Youghiogheny River in the early 1750s.

Or that the Ferncliff Peninsula Natural Area was once home to a resort hotel, a carousel, and a bowling alley?

Historical images of the Ferncliff Peninsula.

There are TONS of informative historical displays around the park – take the time to check them out!

Ohiopyle State Park was once a tropical swamp. — Did you know that at one time long ago this entire area was a tropical swamp?!

15. Hike the Mitchell Trail

The Mitchell Trail is one of the lesser-known trails at Ohiopyle State Park, and that’s a shame because it’s quite beautiful!

Selfie at Sugar Run Falls, Ohiopyle State Park. — The author at Sugar Run Falls along the Mitchell Trail.

Connecting the Great Allegheny Passage to the Old Mitchell Place, the Mitchell Trail does involve some elevation change, but the scenery more than makes up for the extra effort.

Stairs leading to Sugar Run Falls along the Mitchell Trail Spur, Ohiopyle State Park — Stairs leading to Sugar Run Falls along the Mitchell Trail.

16. Come for the Fall Foliage Views

The fall foliage at Ohiopyle State Park is famously beautiful!

Fall foliage at Upper Jonathan Run Falls at Ohiopyle State Park. — Fall foliage at Upper Jonathan Run Falls.

So famous in fact the USA Today ranked this region the #3 place in the entire United States to view fall foliage.

Fall foliage around the High Bridge at Ohiopyle State Park.

My article The 12 Best Places to View Fall Foliage at Ohiopyle State Park goes into great detail about when and where to view this gorgeous display of natural beauty.

Fall foliage at Ohiopyle Falls in Fayette County.

17. Stay for the Skiing

Cross-country skiing is a popular pastime at Ohiopyle State Park in the winter months, with the Great Allegheny Passage lending itself well to this use.

Skiing at Ohiopyle State Park in Fayette County Pennsylvania. — Cross-country skiing the Great Allegheny Passage at Ohiopyle State Park.

And when the skiing tires you out, there’s plenty of winter sightseeing at Ohiopyle State Park to keep anyone busy for a few days!

Taking in the view from Baughman Rock Vista during Winterfest. — Taking in the winter view from Baughman Rock Overlook.

18. Attend Winterfest at Ohiopyle State Park

Speaking of winter, Winterfest at Ohiopyle State Park is an annual celebration of winter sports, held near the beginning of February each year.

A two-horse open sleigh takes passengers for a ride at Winterfest.

The Sugarloaf Sled Riding Hill is a particularly popular spot during Winterfest.

An adult sled rider tests his luck on the Sugarloaf sledding hill at Winterfest.

If you’ve only ever visited Ohiopyle during the summer months, I’m here to tell you Winterfest is absolutely a great time for the whole family and not to be missed!

My daughter after a successful run down the Sugarloaf sledding hill at Winterfest.

19. Visit Downtown Ohiopyle

Ohiopyle is one of the more charming, friendly little “tourist” towns in western PA.

"Welcome to Ohiopyle" mural in downtown Ohiopyle, PA. — “Welcome to Ohiopyle” mural.

Whether you’re looking for a cup of coffee, a delicious meal, or that all important t-shirt to prove you’ve been here, the restaurants and shops of Ohiopyle are ready for you!

The Falls Market on an autumn afternoon in Ohiopyle Pennsylvania. — The Falls Market on an autumn afternoon in Ohiopyle.

You’ll also find numerous boat/bike rentals options and guides/outfitter services in Ohiopyle as well, catering to all your adventuring needs.

Downtown Ohiopyle on a winter afternoon.

20. Visit the Famous Neighbors

Did you know that two of the most famous residences in Pennsylvania are located just a few miles from Ohiopyle State Park?

Fallingwater as seen from the "Classic View" on the Visitor Center map. — Fallingwater near Ohiopyle State Park.

Fallingwater is located just a few miles north of Ohiopyle, along Route 381.

Early spring at Fallingwater in the Pennsylvania Laurel Highlands. — Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Fallingwater in Fayette County, PA.

Kentuck Knob in Fayette County is yet another nearby Frank Lloyd Wright-designed home, located just a few minutes west of Ohiopyle State Park.

Kentuck Knob resembles a ship emerging from the hillside when viewed from below.

Both homes offer tours, and visiting them will really help you understand why Frank Lloyd Wright was considered such a visionary architect.

The wrap-around porch off the back of Kentuck Knob.

So there you have it – 20 of the best things to see and do at Ohiopyle State Park!

Fall foliage around Lower Jonathan Run Falls at Ohiopyle State Park.

No matter the season, it’s always a GREAT time to visit Ohiopyle State Park in Fayette County!

The snow covered Great Allegheny Passage as it passes over the High Bridge at Ohiopyle State Park — The author visiting the Ohiopyle High Bridge on a winter day.

10 of the Best Hiking Trails at Ohiopyle State Park is an in-depth guide to the 80 miles of “official” hiking trails at the park.

Selfie at Fechter Run Falls, Ohiopyle State Park. — The author at Fechter Run Falls along the Sugar Run Trail.

10 Must-See Waterfalls at Ohiopyle State Park is an in-depth guide to the best waterfalls at the park.

Waterfalls along Bruner Run at Ohiopyle State Park.

7 Man-Made Wonders of the PA Laurel Highlands is your guide to the most iconic man-made structures in the region.

A man standing next to the Jumonville Cross gives a sense of scale to the 60 foot-tall structure.

Laurel Caverns in Fayette County is billed as “Pennsylvania’s Largest Cave”, and is a great way to spend an hour or two BENEATH the Laurel Highlands!

The overhead Grand Canyon of Laurel Caverns. — The “Overhead Grand Canyon” at Laurel Caverns.

16 Must-See Attractions in Fayette County is your guide to even more great things to see and do close to Ohiopyle State Park.

The modern-day replica of Fort Necessity at the National Battlefield in Fayette County PA — Fort Necessity in Fayette County.

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