Cucumber Falls

Cucumber Falls is one of the most popular trails in Ohiopyle State Park mainly because it is easy to get to and the geography is unique. Because it gets busy, it is best to visit either early in the morning or right before sunset. Ohiopyle State Park is located along the Youghiogheny River, and its geology is similar to other areas within the Appalachian Mountains. According to the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, "Cucumber Falls plunges about 30 feet over a resistant lip of coarse-grained sandstone of the Alleghany Formation. The lower portion of Cucumber Falls is made up of softer, finer grained rocks, which makes them erode much more quickly." Even though Cucumber Falls' low volume in the late summer makes for a less than impressive water fall, the ability to explore so much of the area below the falls makes it completely worth a late season trip. The water cutting into the rocks makes for interesting scenery with almost a spooky feel. Follow the tributary down to Youghiogheny River and you'll be greeted with a beautiful scenery of mountains, water, and rapids. Even though the river itself moves quickly, the area where the tributary meets the river is shielded by rocks that make for great swimming ponds. There are no blazed trails along the river bank, but you can still walk along it; just choose your steps carefully and watch for slippery rocks. The views from some of the rocks further down the river are well worth it.