  |
|
 |
|
     |
|
         |
|
 
|
Ohiopyle State Park
Located primarily in Fayette County, Ohiopyle State Park encompasses about 19,052 acres of rugged natural beauty and serves as the gateway to the Laurel Mountains. The focal point of the area is the more than 14 miles of the Youghiogheny [yaw-ki-GAY-nee] River Gorge that passes through the heart of the park. The "Yough" [yawk] provides some of the best whitewater boating in the Eastern U. S. as well as spectacular scenery. Surrounding Ohiopyle Falls is the Falls Day Use Area, the central point for the casual visitor. This area provides parking, modern restrooms, gift shop/snack bar, and overlook platforms with magnificent scenery. Ohiopyle is a featured park, July, in the 2009 Pennsylvania State Parks Calendar. |
Explore
Directions - Weather - Trails - Recreation - Whitewater - Stay the Night - Waterfalls - Winter Activities - Winter Report - Environmental Education - Calendar of Events - Accessibility - History - Natural Resources - Nearby Attractions - Volunteers - Rules and Regs - In an Emergency - Contact Us - Downloadables and Maps
Park Advisories
| 10/20/2008 9:48:00 AM | Ramcat access on the Middle Youghiogheny will be closed to vehicle traffic starting the week of October 20 for a bridge replacement project. A temporary walking and biking trail and bridge detour over Ramcat Run for the Great Allegheny Passage will be available throughout the duration of the project. Bicyclists must dismount and walk their bikes on the 100 meter detour. |
| 8/5/2008 9:16:00 AM | Firewood Advisory: Invasive Beetles found in Firewood Threaten Forests! Before bringing firewood to a Pennsylvania State Park, please read the information in the linked page about a very real threat to forests in Pennsylvania and all of North America. Firewood Advisory |
Directions
 |
Special Directions for Large RVs to Kentuck Campground: SR 2019 is very steep. Large RVs should avoid this road and take PA 40 to SR 2010 (Chalk Hill-Ohiopyle Rd.) Follow it for eight miles to a stop sign. Go straight to the campground. |
From the West: From the PA Turnpike, take Exit 91, Donegal. Turn left onto PA 31 east. Travel about two miles, turn right onto PA 711 and PA 381 south. Travel ten miles to Normalville, turn left onto PA 381 south for 11 miles to Ohiopyle.
From the East: From the PA Turnpike, take Exit 110, Somerset. Take PA 281 south 25 miles to Confluence. Continue three miles up hill and at the church, turn right onto Sugarloaf Road, SR 2012. Continue nine miles to Ohiopyle.
From the South (DC, MD, VA): Take I-270 north to Frederick, then I-70 west to Hancock, then Rt. 40 and I-68 through Cumberland. Take Exit 14 (Keysers Ridge) to Rt. 40 west to Farmington, PA. Turn right onto PA 381 north for eight miles to Ohiopyle.
From the South (WV): Take I-79 North to I-68 east. Take Bruceton Mills Exit to Rt. 26 north. At the PA border it becomes PA 281 north. Turn left onto PA 40 west, to Farmington, turn right onto PA 381 north to Ohiopyle.
Recreational Opportunities
Hiking - Biking - Trail Biking - Horseback Riding - Picnicking - Fishing - Hunting - Waterslides - Wildlife Watching - Cross-country Skiing - Sledding - Snowmobiling - Organized Group Tenting - Camping Cottages - Camping - Scale of River Difficulty - Whitewater Boating
The park is open from sunrise to sunset
Biking: The Youghiogheny River Trail has 27 miles of trail in the park and is part of the Great Allegheny Passage. Explore trails for detailed information.
Trail Biking: There are 13.2 miles of trails. Explore trails for detailed information.
Hiking: There are 79 miles of trails. Explore trails for detailed information.
Horseback Riding: There are 9.4 miles of trails. Explore trails for detailed information.
Fishing: The Youghiogheny River provides good wilderness trout fishing. In cooperation with the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, fingerling trout are stocked throughout the entire section of river within the park. An all-tackle trophy trout program exists on a 8-mile section of the river from Ramcat downstream to the SR 381 Bridge in Ohiopyle. Meadow Run also provides fine trout fishing for anglers who prefer smaller stream fishing. A delayed harvest artificial lures only section is on a 2.2 miles section from SR 2011 bridge (Dinnerbell Road) to the mouth. See the PA Fish and Boat Commission’s Summary of Fishing Regulations and Laws for more details on these special regulations areas.
For complete information on fishing rules and regulations in Pennsylvania, visit the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission Web site.
Hunting and Firearms: Over 18,000 acres are open to hunting, trapping and the training of dogs during established seasons. Common game species are deer, turkey, grouse, rabbit, squirrel and other small game. Loaded firearms are not permitted within 50’ of the Youghiogheny River Trail. Adjacent state game lands 51 and 111 provide additional hunting and recreational opportunities.
Hunting woodchucks, also known as groundhogs, is prohibited. Dog training is only permitted from the day following Labor Day through March 31 in designated hunting areas. The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and the Pennsylvania Game Commission rules and regulations apply. Contact the park office for accessible hunting information.
Use extreme caution with firearms at all times. Other visitors use the park during hunting seasons. Firearms and archery equipment may be uncased and ready for use only in authorized hunting areas during hunting seasons. In areas not open to hunting or during non-hunting seasons, firearms and archery equipment must be kept in the owner’s car, trailer or camp.
For complete information on hunting rules and regulations in Pennsylvania, visit the Pennsylvania Game Commission Web site.
Waterslides: Sit in the creek bed and ride the water through two natural waterslides in Meadow Run. Caution must be used at all times as natural hazards exist. Parking is available adjacent to the SR 381 bridge crossing Meadow Run. Follow the signs to Meadow Run Trail or follow the path at the back of the parking lot. An ADA accessible observation deck is easily reached from the parking area.
Picnicking: Two picnic areas provide picnic tables, grills, restrooms, charcoal disposal areas and reservable pavilions. The secluded Cucumber Run Picnic Area is adjacent to Cucumber Run, a beautiful creek lined with rhododendron bushes and large trees. The scenic Great Gorge Trail begins in this picnic area. Tharp Knob Picnic Area is adjacent to the Tharp Knob Overlook that provides a panoramic view of the Youghiogheny River Gorge and the town of Ohiopyle. The picnic area has a large ball field, volleyball court, playground, two pavilions and access to the Kentuck Trail and loop hiking trails.
Make a reservation
Whitewater Boating
The Youghiogheny River has exciting whitewater boating for all experience levels. Only sturdily constructed rubber rafts, kayaks and closed-deck canoes may be used in the river. River levels can change the difficulty of rapids. Check at the launch area or contact the park office for current water levels. The famous Lower Yough begins after the Ohiopyle Falls and flows seven miles downstream to the Bruner Run Take-out. This is the busiest section of whitewater east of the Mississippi River. |
Lower Yough Rapids Map: Explore the rapids map.
The numerous class III and IV rapids make for exciting rafting that should only be attempted by experienced whitewater boaters. Inexperienced whitewater boaters should run this section of the river on a guided raft trip with an authorized concessionaire. The natural river environment contains undercut rocks, ledges and swift currents.
All whitewater boaters on the Youghiogheny must learn to recognize natural dangers and understand that injury and death are a possibility when boating the Lower Yougiogheny.
The Middle Yough begins at the Ramcat Put-in near Confluence, and ends near the town of Ohiopyle. This section contains class I and II rapids and is ideal for beginning kayakers or experienced canoers. Families often raft this section because it provides thrilling rapids at normal river levels.
A new electronic river gauge has replaced the existing staff gauge at the launch area. Please be aware the new gauge reads in tenths and hundredths, instead of feet and inches. You can also access the river stage via the internet at the following address: http://waterdata.usgs.gov/pa/nwis/uv?03081500
Private Trips: Call 888-PA-PARKS or the Ohiopyle State Park office at 724-329-8591 to schedule a launch time. Equipment rentals are available in the town of Ohiopyle. There is a fee to launch boats on weekends on the Lower Yough. During the week, boaters must sign-in at the launch area.
Make a reservation
Guided Trips: Inexperienced boaters should not attempt the Youghiogheny River without qualified guides. Outfitted trips are available from licensed commercial outfitters that provide rafts, guides, all necessary safety equipment, and transportation to and from the river. The following is a list of licensed, commercial outfitters currently operating on the Youghiogheny River.
Laurel Highlands River Tours
P. O. Box 107, Ohiopyle, PA 15470
800-4-RAFTIN (800-472-3846)
www.laurelhighlands.com
Ohiopyle Trading Post
P. O. Box 94, Ohiopyle, PA 15470
888-OHIOPYLE (888-644-6795)
www.ohiopyletradingpost.com
White Water Adventurers
P. O. Box 31, Ohiopyle, PA 15470
800-WWA-RAFT (800-992-7238)
www.wwaraft.com
Wilderness Voyageurs
P. O. Box 97, Ohiopyle, PA 15470
800-272-4141
www.wilderness-voyageurs.com
International Scale of River Difficulty
The classes below are the American version of the rating system used throughout the world. This system is not exact. Rivers do not always fit easily into one category and there may be regional interpretations. This information is from American Whitewater.
Class I: Easy - Fast moving water with riffles and small waves. Few obstructions, all obvious and easily missed with little training. Self-rescue is easy.
Class II: Novice - Straightforward rapids with wide, clear channels which are evident without scouting. Occasional maneuvering may be required, but rocks and medium-sized waves are easily missed by trained paddlers.
Class III: Intermediate - Rapids with moderate, irregular waves which may be difficult to avoid and which can swamp an open canoe. Complex maneuvers in fast current and good boat control in tight passages or around ledges is often required. Strong eddies and powerful current effects can occur.
Class IV: Advanced - Intense, powerful but predictable rapids requiring precise boat handling in turbulent water. May be large, unavoidable waves and holes or constricted passages demanding fast maneuvers under pressure. Rapids require “must” moves above dangerous hazards. Self-rescue is difficult.
For useful safety information visit the Safety Code of American Whitewater. www.americanwhitewater.org/content/Wiki/safety:start
For complete information on boating rules and regulations in Pennsylvania, visit the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission Web site.
Stay the Night
Pets Prohibited in Overnight Areas
|
Camping: modern sites, some with electricity Kentuck Campground is open from the beginning of March to late December. There are 226 campsites, 27 of which are walk-ins that have more privacy but require a short hike from the vehicle to the campsite. All campsites have a picnic table, fire ring and parking space, and the campground has washhouses with hot water and flush toilets, four children’s play areas, and a sanitary dumping station. A few campsites have electric hookups and more are planned for the future. There are three platform tents. These pre-pitched tents have electric hookups, dining canopy, bunk beds, mattresses, picnic tables, and fire ring. Advance reservations are required to insure campsite availability. Four yurts sleep five people and are equipped with bunk beds, table, microwave, refrigerator, stove top, picnic table, and fire ring. |
Explore the campground map.
Explore camping for more information.
Make a reservation
Free Camping for Campground Hosts: one host position in the modern campgroundThe campground host site has amenities that include 20, 30 or 50-amp electric service, water and sewer hookup. Host is required to assist park personnel for 40 hours per week with a two-week minimum stay. Contact the park office for additional information and availability.
Camping Cottages: These rustic, wooden structures have electric lights and outlets, windows and heater. A cottage sleeps five people in a single bunk and a single/double bunk.
Make a reservation
Organized Group Tenting: Qualified adult and youth groups may use this area which is equipped with picnic tables, grills, fire rings and shower house. Groups may use a 20-person, 40-person or multiple sites for larger gatherings. The area is open from March 1 to November 1. Advance reservations are recommended.
Explore organized group tenting for more information.
Winter Activities
Ohiopyle State Park is exceptionally beautiful during the winter, and offers many winter activities. Be sure to dress appropriately for the weather and to follow all trail signs and markings to have a safe and enjoyable experience. Explore the Winter Report for the current snow depth.
Snowmobiling: The 3.8 miles of Sugarloaf Trail and the 9.4 miles of trails in the Sugarloaf Snowmobile and Mountain Biking Area are available with proper snow cover. The Sugarloaf snowmobile area has a parking area with an unloading ramp.
Cross-country Skiing: There are 33.9 miles of trails. The Sproul Trails and a section of the Kentuck Trail were created for cross-country skiing. With deep snowfall, the Youghiogheny River Trail is good for cross-country skiing.
Sledding/Tobogganing: A hill is maintained for sledding in the Surgarloaf Snowmobile and Mountain Bike Area. The hill is adjacent to the parking area.
Environmental Education
The park offers a wide variety of environmental education and interpretive programs. Through hands-on activities, guided walks and evening programs, participants gain appreciation, understanding and develop a sense of stewardship toward natural and cultural resources. Programs focus on the Youghiogheny River, its gorge, and the natural, cultural and recreational resources of the Ohiopyle area. Curriculum-based environmental education programs are available to schools and youth groups. Teacher workshops are available. Group programs must be arranged in advance and may be scheduled by calling the Train Station/Visitor’s Center at 724-329-0986. Programs are offered from March through November.
Explore the Calendar of Events for a listing of events from today forward.
Explore environmental education and interpretation for more information.
Access for People with Disabilities
If you need an accommodation to participate in park activities due to a disability, please contact the Pennsylvania Bureau of State Parks:
888-PA-PARKS (voice)
888-537-7294 (TTY)
711 (AT&T Relay Services)
Natural Resources
Ferncliff Peninsula National Natural Landmark: Created by a meander in the Youghiogeny River, this 100-acre peninsula is a unique habitat that contains many rare and interesting plants. The northern-flowing Youghiogeny River picks up seeds in Maryland and West Virginia and deposits them at Ferncliff, north of their usual growing range. The deep gorge is slightly warmer than the surrounding area, which allows these southern refugees to survive.
Recognized for its botanical diversity for over a century, in 1973 the 100-acre peninsula was declared a National Natural Landmark. In 1992, Ferncliff Peninsula was declared a State Park Natural Area which will protect it in a natural state.
Explore natural areas for more information.
Waterfalls and Scenic Water Attractions
Cascades: This beautiful woodland waterfall in Meadow Run is near the park office. The cool, clean waters of this stream make it a favorite haunt of anglers.
Cucumber Falls: This 30-foot bridal veil waterfall on Cucumber Run is easily reached from Meadow Run Trail and has parking on SR 2019.
Jonathan Run Falls: Several small waterfalls can be seen from Jonathan Run Trail. Just before the trail meets the Youghiogheny River Trail, the largest waterfall tumbles over rocks between rhododendron-lined banks.
Meadow Run Waterslides: The cascading beauty of this unique geologic formation attracts photographers, geologists and recreation enthusiasts. Explore Meadow Run’s ancient streambed to find ripples carved in stone and potholes scoured by spinning rocks and powerful currents.
Ohiopyle Falls: The power and beauty of this 20-foot waterfall make it a central attraction to the park. The best viewing is from the observation deck in the Falls Day Use Area, in the heart of Ohiopyle.
Volunteers Needed
Several volunteer opportunities exist at Ohiopyle State Park. From being a campground host to trail, river, and road cleanups, volunteers play a vital role in maintaining the park’s facilities. Volunteers also assist environmental education staff with research projects and planning events. Ohiopyle State Park is always looking for new and motivated individuals to take part in our monthly trail days organized by the Friends of Ohiopyle (FOO). Dates can be found on their Web site friendsofohiopyle.info. Individuals and groups are also welcome to organize projects of their own with the guidance of park staff. Applications are available at the park office to become a conservation volunteer.
Explore here for more information on volunteering for the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.
Nearby Attractions
For information on nearby attractions, contact the Laurel Highlands Visitors Bureau www.laurelhighlands.org.
Fort Necessity National Battlefield www.nps.gov/fone and the Youghiogheny River Reservoir www.lrp.usace.army.mil/rec/lakes/youghiog.htm are nearby.
|
The Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail is a segment of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail. An enterprise of many partners, the evolving trail network celebrates the heritage of the Potomac and upper Ohio river basins and offers opportunities for hiking, bicycling, boating, horseback riding, and cross-country skiing. National Park Service Passport Stamps for the trail are available at the Laurel Ridge State Park Office and at the visitor center in Ohiopyle. For more information, visit www.nps.gov/pohe. |
|
In an Emergency
Contact a park employee or dial 911.
For directions to the nearest hospital, look on bulletin boards or at the park office.
Nearest Hospital:
Uniontown Hospital
500 West Berkley Street
Uniontown, PA 15401
724-430-5000
For More Information Contact:
Ohiopyle State Park
PO Box 105
Ohiopyle, PA 15470-0105
724-329-8591
Manager: John Hallas
E-mail: ohiopylesp@state.pa.us
An equal opportunity employer
Make online reservations or call toll-free 888-PA-PARKS, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Saturday, for state park information and reservations.
