The Frozen Waterfalls At Ohiopyle State Park In Pennsylvania Are A Must-See This Winter
By Beth Price-Williams|Updated on December 13, 2023(Originally published December 26, 2020)
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.
Walking in a winter wonderland sure might be cold, but for the spellbinding beauty that awaits? Totally worth it. After a fresh snowfall, make your way to Ohiopyle State Park in Pennsylvania, a popular destination all year long. However, during the snowy winter months, it looks like a scene straight off of an old-fashioned postcard, complete with some of the most spectacular frozen waterfalls in Pennsylvania and snow-sprinkled trees.
Sprawled across more than 20,000 acres, Ohiopyle State Park promises breathtaking natural beauty – especially after a fresh snowfall – and a unique winter adventure.
We have so many amazing places to visit during winter in Pennsylvania, but Ohiopyle State Park just might be one of the very best. Add a visit to the top of your winter bucket list.
Bundle up for your visit to the state park that boasts three waterfalls, two of which are really easy to reach and one that requires a hike.
Right from the parking lot, you can admire the icy waterfall from above. Go down the stairs – but be careful as they could be slippery – for a view of the natural wonder from its base.
If you're planning to go to the base, your best bet is to wear sturdy hiking boots and perhaps even bring hiking poles.
You'll have just as easy a time viewing Ohiopyle Falls, which sits about a mile from Cucumber Falls. If the park's Visitor Center is open, head inside for picture-perfect views of the frozen waterfall.
However, if you'd prefer to feel the rush of cool air outdoors, you'll find several viewing areas that offer spellbinding views of the popular waterfall.
The viewing area is just a short walk from the parking lot. If you're up for an adventure, you can cross the nearby bridge and follow the Ferncliff Trail. You'll have to go down stairs and over some rocky terrain, but the views of the waterfall from the other side of the river are simply spellbinding.
Lace up your hiking boots for a brisk winter hike if you want to see Jonathan Run Falls. You'll follow the 3.7-mile Youghiogheny River Trail, an out-and-back trail.
Here’s a peek at what you might see when you visit Cucumber Falls this winter. This YouTube video was filmed by SimpsonInTheWorld.
Have you visited Ohiopyle State Park during the winter? Did you see Cucumber Falls, Ohiopyle Falls, or Jonathan Run Falls, three majestic frozen waterfalls in Pennsylvania? Let us know in the comments! For another enchanting winter experience, dine in a heated igloo at Cork Bar & Restaurant in Wilkes-Barre.
Winter in PA can be bone-chilling, so make sure you lace up a pair of snow boots and slip on a warm coat before heading out on your next adventure.
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Winter In Pennsylvania
Beth Price-Williams|December 13, 2023
What are some fun things to do in winter in Pennsylvania?
We have so many fun things to do in winter in Pennsylvania – from chasing waterfalls to setting off on a brisk winter hike. Here are some more winter activities in Pennsylvania that are worth checking out:
Go snow tubing at Camelback Mountain Resort. For a one-of-a-kind adventure, make reservations for galactic tubing, an epic nighttime adventure.
Snowshoe, ice skate, or go sledding at Promised Land State Park.
Zip down a toboggan in the middle of town in Eagles Mere (if it’s open for the season).
Drink in spellbinding views of the wintry landscape at Hawk Mountain Sanctuary.
Up for a winter hike in Pennsylvania? Check out all of the best hikes in Pennsylvania on AllTrails.