Spend a While in Ohiopyle State Park (PA)

When my Hubby suggested we visit the 20,000-acre Ohiopyle State Park, I wasn't too excited ... at first.   Once we got there I enjoyed hiking some of the 75 miles of trails and seeing the waterfalls.  Of course, there are other things to see and do as well (mountain biking, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and horseback riding - not all trails are suitable for each activity).  It also includes over 14 miles of the Youghiogheny (pronounced yawki-gay-nee) River Gorge great for whitewater rafting.  Unfortunately, the whitewater rafting trip will have to wait for another visit.  

Park Map

The name Ohiopyle is believed to come from a Native American Indian word "ohiopehhla" meaning “white frothy water”.

Our spring visit to Ohiopyle State Park begins in mid-afternoon with a stop at the Visitor Center.  There are exhibits on the lower level as well as a glass-enclosed area for viewing the nearby waterfall.

Visitor Center

Lower Level Exhibits

View of Falls from Visitor Center's Lower Level

In addition to seeing Ohiopyle Falls (which is right next to the Visitor Center), the staff recommends going to the scenic Baughman Rock Overlook and Cucumber Falls.  The Park has several waterfalls.  Two of them are easy to see (Ohiopyle Falls and Cucumber Falls).  The other waterfalls require some hiking.  Since our time here is limited, the other waterfalls will have to wait for a future trip.  

From the Visitor Center’s lower level, I see a few kayakers on the river a short distance from the base of the falls.  Under certain conditions, kayakers are allowed to “shoot the falls”.  It’s not on my “to do” list but there are some adventurers who enjoy the ride. 

Kayakers on the Yough River