Destination Thursday: A day trip to Ohiopyle State Park yields views of three spectacular waterfalls

OHIOPYLE FALLS

In the mid 1700's George Washington searched for a water route to the forks of the Ohio (present day Pittsburgh). Following the Potomac River upstream from tidal Virginia, he crossed Allegheny Mountain and entered the headwaters of the Youghiogheny River where his hopes were raised. However, facing Ohiopyle Falls (Fayette County) and the surrounding rapids, his plans turned to disappointment and the project was abandoned.

Today Ohiopyle Falls provides inspiration rather than discouragement for visitors to the region. There are several places to view the falls, including two platforms directly adjacent to the ledge over which the water cascades, and a natural rock promontory just downstream near the park gift shop. Each view has its own character and point of view so take the time to visit all three.

This area is the hub of the park. There are rest rooms, a gift shop, and picnic facilities. Maps of the park which will help you to find the other areas described in this guide are available at the shop.

After leaving the Ohiopyle Falls parking area, turn right and continue south on Pa. Rt. 381 for 0.3 mile, crossing over Meadow Run. At the Y intersection, bear right and go another 0.2 mile to the Cucumber Run parking lot on the left. Park and follow the signs to Cucumber Run Falls.

CUCUMBER RUN FALLS

Viewing the falls is best from the walkway and stairs which lead from the upper ledge into the lower Cucumber Run valley. A short flight of stairs from the road ends at a platform overlooking the top of the cascade in its rhododendron-fringed setting. Dropping 22 feet, the stream leaps from the sandstone lip into a broad amphitheater-like cove.

SUGAR RUN FALLS

Sugar Run Falls is nestled in a dense thicket of rhododendron. This falls differs from the others in several ways. First, rather than dropping from an overhanging ledge, the water cascades 30 feet over a steeply sloped cliff. The water volume of Sugar Run is smaller and less erosive so there is minimal undercutting and no prominent plunge.

The setting of Sugar Run is smaller and more intimate than Bear Run, Ohiopyle, or Cucumber Run. Cascading waters are enveloped in a jungle of rhododendron beneath an overhanging mature forest canopy. The cascade itself is highlighted by silver-white water against dark, moss-covered stones. Away from the crowds, Sugar Run Falls can provide a moment of solitude in the vastness of Ohiopyle State Park. The falls can be reached by following the bike trail downstream along the Youghiogheny River. See park maps for details.

For more information, visit the Ohiopyle State Park Web site.

For directions to Ohiopyle, click here.

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