Best Hiking Trails in Ohiopyle State Park

If you’re into hiking, chasing waterfalls, or just strolling and breathing in that fresh mountain air, Ohiopyle State Park is one of the best places in Pennsylvania to get outside to enjoy nature. With miles of scenic trails ranging from easy riverside loops to legitimately heart pumping ridge climbs, there’s something for every type of adventurer. (shameless self-promotion: When you stay at Benner’s Meadow Run, you’re just minutes from some of the most popular trailheads in the beautiful Laurel Highlands region!)

Whether you’re looking for an easy nature walk or you’re the type of hiker who loves a good leg burner, we got you covered. Here are the best hiking trails in Ohiopyle, from beginner friendly to advanced. Now let’s hit the trail!

‍Beginner Trails: Easy, Scenic & Perfect for Families

1. Ferncliff Peninsula Trail

• Distance: ~1.8 miles
• Difficulty: Easy
• Great For: Families, nature lovers, photographers

One of the coolest spots in Ohiopyle State Park, Ferncliff Peninsula offers a laid back loop wrapped by the Youghiogheny River (aka “The Yough”). Thanks to a unique microclimate created by the river’s warm waters, the peninsula is home to rare plants and lush green views all season long.

Stroll along shaded paths, peek over river overlooks, and swing by Ohiopyle Falls for some seriously good photo ops. It’s an easy, breezy trail that’s perfect for families, beginners, or anyone who wants a relaxing warm-up hike. And keep your camera handy. This place looks like a postcard!

‍2. Cucumber Falls Trail

• ‍‍Distance: 0.3 miles
• Difficulty: Easy (short staircase)
• Great For: New hikers, waterfall lovers, kids

If there’s one must-see waterfall in Ohiopyle State Park, it’s Cucumber Falls. After a short walk from the parking lot, a staircase leads you down to the base of the falls where you can walk behind the curtain of water and enjoy one of the most photogenic spots in Pennsylvania.

Arrive early for soft morning light and fewer crowds. This is unquestionably one of the most photographed places in the park, or the entire southwestern PA region for that matter.

Moderate Trails: Fun Adventures for Most Hikers

3. Meadow Run Trail

• Distance: ~3 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Highlights: Meadow Run Natural Waterslides, river potholes, rock formations

This trail is pure fun and just long enough to make you feel like you got a little workout in before heading to Fuel or Bittersweet Cafe for coffee. It takes you through forest paths, along beautiful rock formations, and past the famous Meadow Run Natural Waterslides. Great for families with older kids or hikers who want a little adventure without the intensity of a full-day climb.

4. Jonathan Run Trail

• Distance: ~1.7 miles (one way)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Highlights: Multiple waterfalls, quiet woodland scenery

Jonathan Run Trail is one of the most underrated trails in Ohiopyle State Park.  It gets visited less than the others and we really don’t understand why. This peaceful walk through forest and stream valleys leads to two small but beautiful waterfalls. It’s a fantastic option for hikers who prefer a relaxing, nature-focused experience with slightly fewer people!

‍Want more trail time? Just connect it with Sugarloaf Trail for a longer, adventure-packed route.

‍Challenging Trails: For the Hikers Who Love a Good Sweat

5. Baughman Trail → Baughman Rock Overlook

• Distance: ~3.4 miles round trip
• Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
• Why It’s Worth It: Baughman Rock Overlook offers one of the most stunning views in the Laurel Highlands

If you’re ready to break a sweat, the climb up Baughman Trail is worth every step. The trail ascends the mountain before opening up at Baughman Rock Overlook, a sweeping viewpoint that looks out over the Youghiogheny River Gorge.

This overlook is especially stunning in fall when the mountains burst into bright autumn color. Bring water and take your time—the payoff is spectacular.  Both sunrises and sunsets are amazing, just Google that and you’ll see what we mean!

6. Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail (LHHT) – Ohiopyle Trailhead

• Distance: Up to 70 miles (choose your adventure)
• Difficulty: Hard
• Best For: Experienced hikers & backpackers

Okayyyy, so if you want a real challenge, the LHHT delivers. Beginning in Ohiopyle, the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail is one of the most iconic long distance trails in Pennsylvania. Even if you don’t plan to hike all 70 miles, you can enjoy an out-and-back adventure through rugged terrain, rock outcrops, and deep forests.

If you’re backpacking, shelters are available every 8–10 miles (permits required). For day hikers, a few miles on this trail offer a taste of true Appalachian wilderness.  It goes without being said, but we’re gonna say it - You MUST have good hiking shoes.

Tips for Hiking Ohiopyle State Park

Whether you’re taking a quick stroll or heading out for a day trek, keep these tips in mind:

• Wear sturdy shoes—roots, rocks, and waterfalls can make trails slippery
• Start early (the park gets busy!)
• Bring water and snacks
• Download offline trail maps
• Keep dogs leashed
• Check trail and weather conditions after rain.
• Leave no trace to protect our park’s natural beauty.

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After a day of exploring Ohiopyle, we hope that you’re relaxing back at Benner’s Meadow Run. Whether you’re in a cabin, yurt, RV, or tent, you’ll have a comfy place to unwind just minutes from the action. As evening rolls in, spark up the fire ring, toast a few marshmallows, and swap trail laughs with the fam.

And the best part? Tomorrow’s adventures are right down the road. Stay with us, explore at your own pace, and enjoy a relaxing home base between all your Ohiopyle adventures.

Let’s go!