Cucumber Falls is a must-see when visiting Ohiopyle State Park. There is a parking lot close to the 30-foot waterfall for a park and see viewing opportunity. Depending on when you visit, it can be difficult to find a spot. If you have the time and ability, a hike to the falls is a special experience to consider.

We hiked the Great Gorge Trail from the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) to Cucumber Falls (out and back) and eliminated the spur to Cucumber Run Picnic Area. The trail follows along an old tramway that was previously used to transport coal to the railroad which is now the GAP.

The route we took is outlined in pink.

Refer to the map for more information.

Ohiopyle MapDownload

Directions

By parking in the Ferncliff Natural Area Parking, the hike is approximately 2.0 miles one way/ 4.0 miles out-and-back. However, Ohiopyle is a small, walkable town. You can park in other areas and hop on the GAP to get to the trailhead. Cucumber falls are located an estimated 1.6 miles from the trailhead on the GAP, tack on another 0.4 miles from the Ferncliff Natural Parking Area to the trailhead. When approaching the GAP from the Ferncliff Natural Parking Area, make a right and head (northwest) in the direction of Connellsville. If you need a quick pit stop at the bathroom, make a left on the GAP and cross over the Low Bridge. There are restrooms on the other side of the Low Bridge.

Continue 0.4 miles on the GAP, crossing the High Bridge.

The trailhead is on your left after you cross the bridge.

Hike approximately 1.5 miles until you see a bridge on the left side of the trail.

Cross the bridge to explore Cucumber Falls.

Continue around toward the falls. There are a few steps down to a great view.

You can descend more steps and explore the falls further as the trail becomes the Meadow Run Trail.

Cucumber Falls is just a beauty and a great area to spend some time, take some pictures, or have a snack. This shorter, easier portion of the Great Gorge Trail is a great way to get there.

For reference, we have hiked this trail with a toddler in a hiking baby carrier and a newborn in a wrap. We also went a little later and my toddler was able to walk a lot of this trail on his own.

Here is a breakdown for reference from the trailhead on the GAP to Cucumber Falls. Leave a comment to share your adventures or tag your adventures on Instagram (@adventureswkelly). I want to see your adventures on the Great Gorge Trail.

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