Ohiopyle has it all. Want to push yourself? The park is home to the southern terminus of the 70-mile Laurel Highland Trail, excellent whitewater rafting, dozens of rock climbing routes, a stop on the 300-mile bike route from Pittsburgh to D.C., and famously rocky and technical mountain biking. Prefer a more leisurely outing? You’ll also find day hikes for all levels, picnic spots, short bike rides on the Great Allegheny Passage, and beginner-friendly paddling. Ohiopyle literally has something for everyone.
Recommended Route
For families or anyone who wants a casual half-day hike, the 5.8-mile loop from the town of Ohiopyle to the vista at Baughman Rock is perfect. Start the hike by hopping on the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) and heading out of town to the east. After a few hundred yards, look for the Baughman Trail on the right—the climbing starts fast. The trail is easy to follow as it traverses up the hillside toward the overlook, with views of the Yough on the way. Keep an eye out for the left turn to the vista at mile 2.3.
On a clear day, you can see deep into the Youghiogheny River Gorge as it rounds a horseshoe bend. Hawks ride the wind currents created by the steep hillsides and in fall, the foliage views could be the best in the state.
Head back down the Baughman Trail to return to town. To continue the loop, take the Rock City Connector Trail to the Sugarloaf Trail. Sugarloaf drops down the opposite side of the hill and passes near the 200-foot natural water slides on Meadow Run. The slide can be amazing fun, but keep in mind it can be a rough ride—bruises and scrapes are common.
Sugarloaf Trail crosses Sugarloaf Road once more before returning to the GAP, where a left turn leads back to town.
