Things to do in Ohiopyle

Ohiopyle is the name of a state park and small town in the Laurel Highlands region of western Pennsylvania. Located only a few hours from the major metropolises of Baltimore, Washington D.C., Pittsburgh and Cleveland, this scenic area is a perfect weekend getaway for those needing a break from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Though many visitors come just for the scenery, Ohiopyle's 19 thousand acre park offers ample outdoor activities, many of which are suitable for the whole family. This Makes it easy for visitors to the area to create their own adventurous or relaxing vacation.

The lower Youghiogheny, which cuts through the middle of Ohiopyle, is considered one of the best rafting sites in the eastern United States. Two local outfitters, White Water Adventures and Wilderness Voyagers, offer guided trips on the class III river. Trips fill up quick, especially on summer weekends, so it is important to book in advance. Children must be 12 or older to participate.

Families with young children, or those who enjoy a slower pace, can take on the middle Yough. This is a fairly mild trip with class I and II rapids, which are little more than a few ripples. There are two islands in the middle Yough, which is a unique feature for a river of this size.

The middle Yough voyage begins at the Ramcat Launch Area just outside of Confluence and ends in Ohiopyle. Transportation is provided to the launch area by the outfitter of choice. Wilderness Voyagers also offers a Peddle and Paddle package that includes an enjoyable nine mile bike ride on the Great Allegheny Passage from Ohiopyle to the Ramcat Launch Area.

The Great Allegheny Passage is a 152 mile trail connecting Pittsburgh, Pa to Cumberland, Md. Roughly 27 miles of the trail is located within the Ohiopyle park borders. The crushed limestone trail is relatively flat and easily managed by people of all fitness levels. It is an excellent choice for biking and jogging, as no motorized vehicles are permitted on the trail.

The 10 miles between Ohiopyle and Confluence are particularly pleasant. Here, the trail runs above and adjacent to the river, offering spectacular views of the middle Yough with a chance to spot local wildlife. The journey between the two towns is mostly shaded by a large canopy of trees that often keeps riders cool even in the summer months.

There are nearly 80 miles of hiking trails located within the park. Maps are available in the visitor center and at the park office. Many of the trails offer scenic overlooks and glimpses of the various habitats located within the area.

A natural water-slide is located off of the Meadow Run Trail. Parking is available near the intersection of Main Street and Ohiopyle Road. It can be a rough ride, jean shorts and common sense are recommended.

Several rock climbing routes are available in the park including the Bruner Run Climbing Area, Meadow Run Climbing Area, School House Wall and Maple Wall. Private and group instruction are available from the local outfitters.

Ohiopyle is fortunate to have two of Frank Lloyd Wright's architectural masterpieces, Fallingwater and Kentuck Knob, only a few minutes drive from town. A third piece, The Duncan House, is located about 45 minutes away in Acme, Pa.

Fallingwater is one of Wright's most famous pieces of work. The house was designed to fit in with the landscape. It seems to magically float over Bear Run's 30 foot waterfall. Completed in the late 30's, Fallingwater graced Time magazine's cover in 1938. In 2008, Smithsonian Magazine included it in a list of "28 Places to See Before You Die".

Designed in the 50's for the Hagan family, Kentuck Knob was one of the last homes completed by Wright. The house is a prime example of Wright's organic design; it blends perfectly into the surrounding landscape. There is also a large sculpture garden in the surrounding grounds.