Ohiopyle State Park, located in the Laurel Highlands of southwestern Pennsylvania, offers a vast and diverse network of trails for outdoor enthusiasts. The park spans over 20,000 acres, featuring a variety of landscapes, from dense woodlands to rugged river gorges, making it a popular destination for hikers, cyclists, and nature lovers alike.
The trails at Ohiopyle range in difficulty, catering to all levels of adventurers. For casual hikers, the Falls Trail provides a short yet stunning route, offering breathtaking views of Ohiopyle Falls. The trail is paved for easy access, making it perfect for families or those seeking a leisurely stroll. More experienced hikers can tackle the Great Gorge Trail, a 3.5-mile path that hugs the banks of the Youghiogheny River, providing dramatic views of the river's rapids and the surrounding forest. The Baughman Trail is another highlight, offering a challenging 1.5-mile hike to a scenic overlook with panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
For cyclists, Ohiopyle connects to the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP), a 150-mile rail trail that runs from Pittsburgh to Cumberland, Maryland, even connecting to the C&O Towpath to Washington DC. The park's section of the GAP provides a smooth, scenic route through the region, ideal for biking and even cross-country skiing in winter months.
In addition to hiking and biking, the park is home to trails suited for equestrians, with several routes offering a peaceful way to explore the park's natural beauty on horseback. Whether you're seeking a short, scenic hike or a more strenuous adventure, Ohiopyle's diverse trail system promises something for everyone to enjoy year-round.
Ohiopyle State Park is managed by Pennsylvania DCNR - Ohiopyle State Park. They can be contacted at ohiopylesp@pa.gov
The town of Ohiopyle is located about an hour southwest of Ligonier via PA 381.
Meadow Run Loops can be accessed via a parking lot on Dinerbell Road off 381.
There are many parking areas throughout the State Park at trailheads and points of interest.