This Pennsylvania Trail Leads to a Stunning Waterfall

When considering a waterfall hike in Pennsylvania, many flock to the famous Bushkill Falls, known as the “Niagara of Pennsylvania.” While it's certainly worth a visit, the highly accessible Cucumber Falls in Ohiopyle State Park is a must-visit natural wonder perfect for outdoor adventurers of all levels. Plan your trip anytime from March through October, though spring and fall, when the water is higher, are ideal. I particularly enjoy timing my visits with when the rhododendrons line the path in the springtime and during the peak of the colorful fall foliage.

The waterfall is found along Cucumber Run, a tributary of the Youghiogheny River. Just follow the well-demarcated trail 0.3 miles upstream through the woods from the parking lot, and you will come upon the impressive 36-foot, single-drop waterfall.

Nature photographers will be in their element, as the initial view from up top is stunning, as are all angles of the water and surrounding landscape, which are best experienced at the base of the falls. Be sure to wear appropriate shoes and take your time navigating your way down the trail—this section is steeper and rockier compared to the previous 0.3 miles and can be slick after a rainfall.

Once at the bottom, you can explore behind the falls and enjoy ducking in and out of the rushing water or relaxing in the pool just below. Some like to try their hand at fishing above the falls while birding enthusiasts wander close by to find quieter spots. Any vantage point makes a great spot for a family picnic.

This short waterfall hike is also a scenic detour off the Great Allegheny Passage, a 150-mile rail trail through the mountains of Southwest Pennsylvania that connects Cumberland, Maryland, with Pittsburgh. Most of it is converted from abandoned rail beds, which makes for an almost-level surface with an average grade of less than one percent, though the crushed limestone surface does soften in the rain.

For those looking for a more moderate-level hike that features multiple waterfalls, the Cucumber Falls parking area is also the starting point of the Great Gorge Trail: a 5.1-mile out-and-back trail that follows Cucumber Run for the first mile before crossing the Youghiogheny River and climbing up the side of the gorge. Hikers are rewarded with iconic views and will pass several smaller waterfalls along the way. The trail then heads back down and follows the river for the final mile, and you’ll travel by several more waterfalls, including Cucumber Falls.

The trail then ends at the Natural Waterslides parking area, at the intersection of Main Street (Route 381) and Ohiopyle Road, and you can cap off your hike with a dip. The Natural Waterslides are located along Meadow Run, where the waters have worn a channel through the sandstone, creating a waterslide as it twists and turns downstream. Travel down on your back, or bring your surfboard to test your skills on some very different waves. 

Is Cucumber Falls your favorite waterfall hike in Pennsylvania? Is there another waterfall you enjoy visiting more? Feel free to share this article with a fellow hiking enthusiast!

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.