Best Places to See Fall Foliage in Ohiopyle State Park

Cucumber Falls is one of the most picturesque spots in Ohiopyle State Park, especially during fall. The 36-foot waterfall cascades down into a pool surrounded by trees ablaze with autumn colors. The contrast between the flowing water and the fiery reds, oranges, and yellows of the surrounding trees creates a magical setting.

• Best For:
  Waterfall Views Amidst Autumn Colors
• Tips for Visiting:
  The falls are easily accessible from the road, with a short walk down a set of stairs leading to the base of the falls. Cucumber Falls is particularly popular during the fall, so visit early in the day to avoid crowds. Late mornings provide great lighting as the sunlight filters through the canopy, adding a warm glow to the scene.
• Pro Tip:
  After visiting Cucumber Falls, explore the nearby trails that run along the Youghiogheny River for more fall foliage views.

The Meadow Run Natural Waterslides offer a blend of adventure and fall scenery that is hard to beat. The smooth rock formations of the waterslides, combined with the autumn foliage, create a unique natural attraction. While the waterslides are more popular in the summer, visiting them in the fall provides a quieter and more peaceful experience, with the colorful leaves adding to the beauty.

• Best For:
  Photographers, adventureres, and Unique Foliage Views
• Why Visit in Fall:
  In the fall, the Meadow Run area is surrounded by vibrant foliage, and the sound of water rushing over the rocks adds to the ambiance. The contrast of the cool, clear water with the warm autumn colors makes this spot a must-see.
• What Makes It Special:
  What sets the Meadow Run Natural Waterslides apart is the combination of the natural rock formations and the surrounding fall foliage, which create a stunning and photogenic setting.

If you’re a fan of biking or hiking, the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) offers a scenic and immersive experience through Ohiopyle’s autumn wonderland. The trail winds through forests bursting with color, providing a unique way to experience the fall foliage up close.

• Best For:
  Scenic Biking and Hiking
• Trail Highlights:
  The GAP is a 150-mile trail that runs through Ohiopyle, offering some of the park’s most beautiful scenery. Whether you’re on foot or bike, you’ll be surrounded by towering trees showing off their fall colors, while the trail itself is often blanketed with fallen leaves. Along the way, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the Youghiogheny River as it weaves through the park.
• What to Expect:
  The best time to hike or bike the GAP in Ohiopyle is during mid-October when the fall foliage is at its peak. The gentle grade and crushed limestone path make it accessible for people of all fitness levels.

The Ferncliff Peninsula is a botanical treasure within Ohiopyle State Park, offering a mix of ecological diversity and stunning fall foliage views. As a National Natural Landmark, the peninsula is surrounded by the Youghiogheny River on three sides, creating an environment where unique plant species thrive. This makes the fall foliage here particularly diverse and colorful.

• Best For:
  River Views and Diverse Fall Colors
• Key Trails:
  The Ferncliff Trail is an easy, 1.7-mile loop around the peninsula that provides excellent views of both the river and the fall foliage. You’ll pass through sections where the trees create a natural tunnel of gold and red, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely autumn hike.
• What to Expect:
  The fall colors on Ferncliff Peninsula typically peak in mid-to-late October. The easy terrain makes it perfect for families and casual hikers. Along the trail, you’ll find multiple viewing points where the colorful leaves reflect off the river, creating a picture-perfect scene.

When it comes to fall foliage in Ohiopyle, Baughman Rock Overlook is a must-visit. This viewpoint offers a sweeping panorama of the Youghiogheny River Gorge, framed by the stunning colors of fall. With vibrant reds from the maple trees, golden hues from the oaks, and a mix of other deciduous species, the view from Baughman Rock is nothing short of breathtaking.

• Best For:
  Panoramic Views of the Laurel Highlands & the Youghiogheny River Gorge
• How to Get There:Located a short drive from the main entrance of the park, Baughman Rock is accessible via a moderate hiking trail or a very trail from the overlook parking lot, making it a perfect adventure for all ages.

  What to Expect: The best time to visit Baughman Rock is during mid-to-late October when the colors are at their peak. The autumn landscape against the backdrop of the river is perfect for photography, so don’t forget your camera. Mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for capturing the beauty of the fall foliage.

Explore the best times and top spots to witness peak fall foliage in Ohiopyle with our 2024 Fall Foliage Prediction Map. Whether you're gearing up for a scenic drive through Ohiopyle State Park or a weekend escape, this interactive map lets you follow the changing leaves across the U.S. Plan your visit to fully enjoy the breathtaking autumn scenery in Ohiopyle and beyond.