You’ve probably never heard of it and aren’t quite sure how to pronounce it, but Ohiopyle (Ohio-pile) is the perfect spot for a late-summer getaway.
Located in Fayette County, Pennsylvania, Ohiopyle has some of the best whitewater rafting in the eastern United States. “Ohiopyle” is Native American for “white frothy water,” and you’ll find plenty of it in the Youghiogheny River. There is also great hiking, biking and camping, all of which can be enjoyed in the Ohiopyle State Park, which is among Pennsylvania’s must-see state parks. While the city is small (population: 25), it brings in millions of tourists each year, and for good reason. It’s time to truly experience the great outdoors.
Where to Stay
There aren’t many options when it comes to hotels, so I suggest camping out for this trip. Rent a campsite in the Ohiopyle State Park at the Kentuck Campground. Reservations can be made online or by phone, 724-329-8592. The campsites are complete with picnic table, fire pit, nearby bathrooms and shower house, and the campsites are a 10-minute walk from town. If camping isn’t your forté, you can stay at the Nemacolin Woodlands Resort and Spa, only a few miles away from the State Park. Enjoy a relaxing getaway, but still take advantage of the thrill and excitement of rafting and biking.
Photo courtesy of Nemacolin Woodlands Resort and Spa
Rafting
Book your rafting through Wilderness Voyageurs. Navigate their website to decide which level of rafting you want to take on. The Youghiogheny River has a wide range of rapids, from Class I for beginners and families to Class V for adrenaline-seeking rafters ready to take on the crashing waves. They provide all the necessary equipment and give a safety tutorial before leaving. For the beginner classes, an instructor is on the raft to help lead the paddling and fun. (Note: Kids must be 12 years or older to take part.)
Photo courtesy of Wilderness Voyageurs
Biking
Rent bikes in town and take in all the beautiful scenery. You have to bike to the Great Allegheny Passage, a rail trail gliding over the Youghiogheny River and winding through the State Park. If you want a guided bike tour, contact the good people at Wilderness Voyageur and enjoy the surroundings while they prepare your lunch, tune your bike and even provide a GPS unit.
Photo courtesy of Wilderness Voyageurs
Dining
With all the physical activity, you’re going to need some good food to refuel. Walk to town and try Fox’s Pizza Den for tasty pizza and sandwiches. If you’re in need of frozen refreshment, check out Fall’s Market and try their unique ice-cream flavors and different cones. There are a few other restaurants in town, but remember that when camping out, nothing beats hot dogs and S’mores over a campfire.
There’s More!
Don’t miss the natural waterslide and Cucumber Falls at Meadow Run! After years of erosion, paths or slides have been carved out of rock and resemble a water slide that leads all the way down to the lower part of the Youghiogheny River. Slide down and see who has the fastest run. Cucumber Falls is one of the most-photographed waterfalls in Pennyslvania and another site that can’t be missed. Meadow Run is a 10-minute drive from the campsite and is well worth the trip.
Photo courtesy of Ohiopyle Visitor’s Center
