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.
All Trails/Shannon B.
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.
All Trails/CH
Expect some steep elevation changes and plenty of twists and turns along the picturesque path.
All Trails/Sam Andvera
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.
All Trails/Chris Hatcher
Following your stop at Cucumber Falls, a perfect spot for cooling down during the hot summer months, your hike will continue into the woods.
All Trails/Mike Sciullo
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.
All Trails/Edmund Brown
Much of the trail travels along the Youghiogheny River and offers spellbinding views of the Youghiogheny River Gorge.
All Trails/Chris Hatcher
If you’ve got the time, stop along Gorge Bridge to admire the gorge below you.
All Trails/Chris Hatcher
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.
All Trails/Chelsea Dipman
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.
All Trails/Matt L.
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.
All Trails/Shannon B.
All Trails/CH
All Trails/Sam Andvera
All Trails/Chris Hatcher
All Trails/Mike Sciullo
All Trails/Edmund Brown
All Trails/Chelsea Dipman
All Trails/Matt L.
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Address: Ohiopyle State Park, 124 Main St, Ohiopyle, PA 15470, USA
