Ohiopyle State Park
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Ohiopyle State Park spans 20,500 acres in Fayette County along the Youghiogheny River Gorge. The park is world-renowned for whitewater rafting and kayaking, with Class III-IV rapids drawing adventure seekers from across the country. The park features over 79 miles of hiking and biking trails, including sections of the Great Allegheny Passage rail-trail. Natural attractions include Cucumber Falls, Ohiopyle Falls, and Ferncliff Peninsula. The park offers pristine wilderness, stunning river gorges, and some of the best outdoor recreation in Pennsylvania.
Free
Visiting with Dogs
Leashed dogs allowed on all Ohiopyle trails, incl. GAP; not on commercial rafting or swimming. Kayaks, camping, water access OK.
Visitor Tips & Reviews
What Visitors Say
Visitors praise Ohiopyle's top Mid-Atlantic whitewater rafting, scenic Great Allegheny Passage cycling, diverse trails, Fallingwater nearby; expect summer weekend crowds.
Tips from Visitors
- Book whitewater rafting trips well in advance during peak summer season - outfitters fill up quickly
- The Lower Yough (Class III-IV) requires experience, but the Middle Yough is perfect for beginners and families
- Cucumber Falls is a short walk from the parking area and makes for stunning photos
- Great Allegheny Passage is mostly flat and perfect for casual bikers - bike rentals available in town
- Swimming is permitted only in designated areas due to strong river currents - never swim near rapids
- The town of Ohiopyle has restaurants and shops - arrive early on summer weekends for parking
Amenities
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Nearby Attractions
Explore these attractions near Ohiopyle State Park:
- Great Allegheny Passage150-mile rail-trail connecting Pittsburgh to Cumberland, Maryland, perfect for long-distance cyclingWithin the park
- FallingwaterFrank Lloyd Wright's architectural masterpiece built over a waterfall, one of the most famous houses in the world7 miles away
- Fort Necessity National BattlefieldSite of young George Washington's first military engagement during the French and Indian War12 miles away
Things to Do at Ohiopyle State Park
Camping at Ohiopyle State Park
Ohiopyle State Park camping: tents, RVs, cabins; ~200 sites with hookups, water, restrooms. Reserve online (up to 11 months).
Hiking Trails
Cucumber Falls Trail
EasyShort, accessible trail to beautiful Cucumber Falls, dropping over layers of rock in a woodland setting. Very popular and family-friendly.
Ferncliff Peninsula Trail
ModerateLoop trail through old-growth forest and along dramatic river gorge overlooks. Features unique rock formations and pristine wilderness. Can be rocky and steep in sections.
Great Allegheny Passage (Ohiopyle Section)
EasyFlat, crushed limestone rail-trail perfect for biking or walking. Follows the Youghiogheny River through stunning gorge scenery. Can do any distance as out-and-back.
Meadow Run Trail
ModerateTrail following Meadow Run stream with water slides on natural rock formations. Popular for scrambling and stream play. Requires stream crossings.
Directions
Ohiopyle State Park is located in Fayette County off PA Route 381. From Pittsburgh, take I-76 (Pennsylvania Turnpike) east to Exit 91 (Donegal), then follow PA Route 31 east to PA Route 381 south. The park entrance and visitor center are in the town of Ohiopyle. From the east, take I-76 west to Exit 110 (Somerset), then follow PA Route 281 north to US Route 40 west to PA Route 381 south. The Great Allegheny Passage trail runs directly through the park. GPS users should use: 124 Main Street, Ohiopyle, PA 15470.