The Unrivaled Canyon Hike Near Pittsburgh Everyone Should Take At Least Once

We've got some pretty spectacular natural scenery in Pittsburgh and not too far from the city. We don't have a true canyon within easy driving distance of the city. (For that, you'd have to make the four-hour drive to Pine Greek Gorge.) However, we do have access to a breathtaking gorge that sits along the Great Gorge Trail near Pittsburgh. The gorge is arguably the highlight of the trail that's brimming with natural beauty, including a waterfall.

Great Gorge Trail meanders 4.9 miles through Ohiopyle State Park, providing spellbinding views of the Youghiogheny River Gorge.

However, before you lace up your hiking boots, make sure you're up for the challenge of the trail that has earned a moderate rating.

Expect some steep elevation changes and plenty of twists and turns along the picturesque path.

One of the early highlights of the trail is Cucumber Falls, a cascade that's beautiful any time of the year. You can even walk behind the falls for a unique (and wet) view.

Following your stop at Cucumber Falls, a perfect spot for cooling down during the hot summer months, your hike will continue into the woods.

Wildflowers line parts of the path in the warmer months. While Cucumber Falls can get quite crowded, the trail itself can be quiet depending on what time of the year and the day you visit.

Much of the trail travels along the Youghiogheny River and offers spellbinding views of the Youghiogheny River Gorge.

If you've got the time, stop along Gorge Bridge to admire the gorge below you.

If you're hiking in the warmer months, bring plenty of bug spray. No matter when you hike, you'll definitely want a pair of sturdy hiking shoes or boots as you'll have to maneuver some rocky terrain, especially at the beginning of the trail.

Check out a trail map of the Great Gorge Trail on All Trails. Then stop by the official website of Ohiopyle State Park for a full menu of activities.

Have you ever hiked the Great Gorge Trail near Pittsburgh? What did you think? Share your experience in the comments! If you're up for a drive and quite the challenge, you can see the breathtaking Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania (Pine Creek Gorge) on the Pine Creek Rail Trail.