Winterfest at Ohiopyle State Park is a celebration of outdoor winter activities in one of the most picturesque locations in the Laurel Highlands of Western PA.
I’ve attended several times with my daughter, so I thought I’d put together some helpful tips of what to expect, as well as ideas for additional winter activities you might enjoy while you’re in Ohiopyle.
Winterfest FAQ’s
Winterfest will not be held in 2021 due to COVID restrictions.
The bulk of the activities take place at the Sugarloaf sledding area along Sugarloaf Road, 4 miles southeast of the town of Ohiopyle.
Yes – use GPS coordinates 39.832044, -79.458148.
Yes – there are restrooms at the Sugarloaf sledding area, as well as at the Visitors Center in Ohiopyle itself.
Yes – the Friends of Ohiopyle sell food and drinks near the warming hut at the Sugarloaf sledding area.
Sled riding, sleigh riding, snow shoeing, cross-country skiing, and self-guided hiking/sightseeing.
Sled riding: free (bring your own sled).
Sleigh rides: $5 for adults, $3 kids 4-12, free for kids 3 and under.
Snow shoeing: bring your own or free loaners available.
Cross-country skiing: bring your own or free loaners available.
Sled Riding at Winterfest
The most popular activity at Winterfest at Ohiopyle State Park always seems to be sled riding.
Young and old alike take their turns flying down Sugarloaf Knob.
As with auto racing, the most exciting part as a spectator is some of the spectacular wipeouts!
There is no cost to sled ride, and you can take as many turns as you like. You do need to bring your own sled though.
Sleigh Riding at Winterfest
Sleigh rides are another wildly popular draw at Winterfest at Ohiopyle State Park.
The rides depart and return from in front of the parking area at the Sugarloaf sledding area.
The cost for sleigh rides is $5 for adults, $3 for kids 4-12, and 3 and under ride free.
The ride is worth every penny though.
And if you have a horse lover in your family, it’s a chance to get a close-up look at the majestic Percherons that pull the sleigh.
Sightseeing at Winterfest
While not “official” Winterfest events, this is an excellent opportunity to see some of Ohiopyle State Park’s most magnificent sights in snowy conditions.
Baughman Rock Overlook is just down the road from the Sugarloaf sledding area.
Cucumber Falls is another close-by attraction that looks particularly stunning in the winter.
And of course the namesake Ohiopyle Falls are a worthwhile stop at Winterfest.
Finally, I’d suggest a quick drive up Route 381 to tour the grounds at Fallingwater, especially if you’ve never been there in the winter.
Final Thoughts about Winterfest
I’ve never had less than a stellar time at Winterfest at Ohiopyle State Park.
Surrounded by fellow outdoor enthusiasts in one of the grandest of all Pennsylvania State Parks, it’s hard to imagine a better way to spend a winter afternoon!
So round up your friends and family and head out to Winterfest at Ohiopyle State Park – you’ll be glad you did!
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Discover Ohiopyle offers an array of rustic cottages and cabins, luxurious honeymoon spots and retreats, hotels, campgrounds, and even more unique options, like tree houses!
If you’re looking for an Ohiopyle lodging experience like no other, look no further than Discover Ohiopyle.
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