Looking for an outdoor adventure escape in Pennsylvania? Head to Ohiopyle! Nestled in the Laurel Highlands, Ohiopyle offers thrilling whitewater rafting, scenic hiking trails, waterfalls, and cozy small-town charm. Whether you love outdoor thrills or peaceful nature views, Ohiopyle is the perfect destination for your next getaway.
Ohiopyle, PA Highlights:
- Ohiopyle State Park: Hike, bike, raft, and explore stunning waterfalls across 20,000 acres of preserved wilderness.
- Great Allegheny Passage Trail (GAP): Bike or walk along this famous rail-trail stretching from Pittsburgh to Maryland.
- Youghiogheny River: Experience some of the best whitewater rafting and kayaking on the East Coast.
- Cucumber Falls: Visit this beautiful, easy-to-access waterfall, a must-see photo spot in Ohiopyle State Park.
- Fallingwater: Tour Frank Lloyd Wright’s world-renowned architectural masterpiece located just minutes away.
Best Time to Visit Ohiopyle, PA
The best time to visit Ohiopyle is in the late spring through early fall (May–October). Summer is perfect for whitewater rafting and hiking, while fall offers breathtaking foliage and cooler hiking weather.
How to Get to Ohiopyle, PA
- If you are traveling by car: Ohiopyle is located about 1.5 hours southeast of Pittsburgh via PA-51 S and PA-381 S.
- By Train: Amtrak service is available to Connellsville, about 20–30 minutes from Ohiopyle, with car rentals or shuttles available.
- By Plane: Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) is the nearest major airport, roughly a 2-hour drive away.
Where to Stay in Ohiopyle, PA
- Ohiopyle Suites – Comfortable, centrally located lodging perfect for easy access to trails and rafting tours.
- Yough Plaza Motel – Basic and convenient accommodations right in the heart of Ohiopyle.
- Local Cabins and Vacation Rentals – Cozy cabins, riverside lodges, and rustic retreats are abundant around Ohiopyle for a true nature escape.
Best Things to Do in Ohiopyle, PA
⮕ Hike, Bike, and Paddle Through Ohiopyle State Park
Ohiopyle State Park is a 19,052–acre Pennsylvania state park in Fayette County, Pennsylvania. The main attraction of the park is about 14 miles of the Youghiogheny River Gorge that runs through the park. The river offers some of the best whitewater rafting, boating and kayaking in Pennsylvania. There is also an 11-mile scenic biking and hiking trail and Laurel Highlands River Tours & Outdoor Center operates the Ohiopyle Zip Line Adventure Park.
Ohiopyle at Kentuck Campground has 200 campsites and there are several great rock climbing areas. The Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail runs 70 miles from Ohiopyle State Park to Laurel Ridge State Park. The park opened in 1965, and was officially dedicated in 1971.
Ohiopyle State Park, 124 Main St, Ohiopyle, PA 15470, Phone: 814-725-1314
⮕ Ride the Rapids With Laurel Highlands River Tours
Youghiogheny River is famous all over the country for its spectacular whitewater rafting boating and kayaking. If you are looking for an adventure in the area, let Laurel Highlands River Tours organize Guided Rafting trips on the Middle, Lower or Upper Youghiogheny River or on the Cheat River. They are located in the scenic town of Ohiopyle, Pennsylvania.
They also offer Family Float trips to wild whitewater, have bike rentals, guided mountain biking trips, guided rock climbing on the area’s awesome rocks, and camping and lodging packages. They also have Zip Line Adventure Park in Ohiopyle. There is a special level just for kids, and another one for adults.
Laurel Highlands River Tours, 186 Dinner Bell Rd, Ohiopyle, PA 15470, Phone: 724-329-8531
Activities and Attractions for Couples:
⮕ Conquer the Currents at White Water Adventures
White Water Adventures is the professional experienced rafting outfitter in Ohiopyle, Pennsylvania. If you want to feel the roar of the wild river beneath your raft, they will take you safely to the right places. Bring the family or friends on a whitewater adventure they will never forget.
White Water Adventurers is located inside of Ohiopyle State Park that surrounds the large portion of the Youghiogheny River in the heart of western Pennsylvania’s most popular outdoor adventure destination. They are located only an hour from Pittsburgh and are licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. One of their most popular trips is Family-Friendly Rafting on the Middle Yough river, Class I and II, together with the Lower Yough, Class III. For adrenaline-junkies, they offer The Beast of the East on the Cheat River, Class IV and V and the Ultimate White Water River on The Upper Yough, Class V.
White Water Adventures, 6 Negley St, Ohiopyle, PA 15470, Phone: 724-329-8850
⮕ Gear Up and Go With Ohiopyle Trading Post and River Tours
Ohiopyle Trading Post and River Tours is a family run adventure tours outfitter that specializes in whitewater rafting trips on the wild Youghiogheny River. You will find their store in the magnificent Ohiopyle State Park, right across from the waterfall. They are the closest outfitter to the Lower Yough.
They run trips on all three sections of the Yough, the Upper, Middle and Lower rivers, with whitewater rapids that range from class I to V. They also have the premiere rental service in Ohiopyle, offering new blue boats and well-kept equipment. All their rafts, Shredders and inflatable kayaks are self-bailing. They also have foot stirrups. As a small company, they are able to accommodate smaller, less crowded groups and offer customized service to their clients.
Ohiopyle Trading Post and River Tours, 4 Negley St, Ohiopyle, PA 15470, Phone: 724-329-1450
Where to Eat:
⮕ If You’re Craving a Post-Adventure Bite, Refuel at Ohiopyle House Café
Located in the heart of charming, lively town of Ohiopyle, Ohiopyle House Cafe is your destination before or after hitting one of the whitewater tours or climbing that lovely vertical rock. The small, homey dining room can fit a few people but most folks love to sit outdoors on their rustic deck, where you can bring your pooch. The House serves fresh and natural alternatives to the typical white bread with bacon common in the area.
Their cheeses, bacon, beef and chicken come straight from the farm to the cafe table. They buy organic and local produce when available, organic sprouted breads and organic, locally ground coffee from Old Linn Run Coffee Bean Roastery . Even their beers are organic and locally brewed. The menu includes great salads, imaginative sandwiches and melts and homey comfort food for dinner.
Ohiopyle House Cafe, 144 Grant St, Ohiopyle, PA 15470, Phone: 724-329-1122
More Places to Eat in Ohiopyle, PA
- Falls Market Restaurant and Inn – Classic American fare with hearty breakfasts, burgers, and home-style meals.
- Ohiopyle Bakery & Sandwich Shoppe – Great spot for grab-and-go lunches, fresh sandwiches, and sweet treats.
- Falls City Pub – Lively spot with local brews, live music, and satisfying comfort food favorites.
If you are interested in local events:
- Ohiopyle Falls & Over the Falls Festival (Summer) – Watch expert kayakers attempt to paddle over Ohiopyle Falls.
- Great Allegheny Passage Annual Ride (Summer/Fall) – Join cyclists from around the country on portions of the GAP Trail.
- Autumn Leaf Festival (September–October) – Celebrate fall foliage with local food, crafts, and music in the surrounding Laurel Highlands region.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Ohiopyle, Pennsylvania:
- Fallingwater (10–15 min) – Tour one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s most famous and innovative home designs.
- Kentuck Knob (10–15 min) – Another Frank Lloyd Wright masterpiece tucked into the hills, offering tours and sculpture gardens.
- Nemacolin Resort (30 min) – Enjoy spa treatments, fine dining, golf, and family activities at this luxury resort.
- Laurel Caverns (30 min) – Explore Pennsylvania’s largest cave system with guided tours and spelunking adventures.
- Fort Necessity National Battlefield (25–30 min) – Step into Revolutionary War history at this preserved 18th-century battle site.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Q: Where is Ohiopyle located?
- A: Ohiopyle is a tiny borough in Fayette County, Pennsylvania, that often has more tourists on its streets than residents.
- Q: What is the main attraction in Ohiopyle?
- A: The biggest draw is the nearby Ohiopyle State Park, as well as the Great Allegheny Passage bike trail that connects with the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Towpath.
- Q: What outdoor activities are popular in Ohiopyle?
- A: Whitewater rafting and kayaking on the Youghiogheny River that runs through the park is considered the best in Pennsylvania.
- Q: What role does Ohiopyle play in outdoor adventures?
- A: Ohiopyle is the starting point for many adventures on the river or in the park, organized and guided by the professional outfitters in Ohiopyle.
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers.
Yough Plaza Motel – A convenient stay near the heart of Ohiopyle.
Hike to Cucumber Falls – Witness beautiful waterfalls surrounded by lush greenery.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and ideal for outdoor adventures.
Trillium Lodge – A cozy and scenic retreat near Ohiopyle State Park.
Go Whitewater Rafting on the Youghiogheny River – Experience thrilling rapids in one of the best rafting spots in the U.S.
Fall (September-November) – Cool temperatures and breathtaking autumn foliage.
Historic Summit Inn Resort – A charming and historic stay with panoramic mountain views.
Bike the Great Allegheny Passage – Ride through vibrant fall colors along the scenic rail trail.
Winter (December-February) – Snowy and peaceful, great for a quiet getaway.
Nemacolin – A luxurious resort nearby offering winter activities.
Explore Ohiopyle State Park in Winter – Enjoy snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and frozen waterfalls.
More events and things to do in Ohiopyle, Pennsylvania
More events and things to do in Fayette County
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