Ferncliff Peninsula Natural Area — Attraction in Ohiopyle

Lovely loop hike around the peninsula offering a great view of the waterfall in the river without the crowds you can expect at the visitor center. Accessible via Bridges from either The visitor Center or the Kentucky campground. The shortest and easiest way to access the trailhead is by parking at the "Ferncliff Natural Area Parking". If you park here though be sure you walk to the bridges on either side of the peninsula in order to enjoy those spectacular views. Recommended duration 1 hour Note the duration of the trail along the Northeast section of the river upstream from the waterfall is along Rocky boulders that likely floods during the Spring or heavy rains. You must keep a close eye for the yellow blazes on both rocks and trees...

The Ferncliff Peninsula in Ohiopyle State Park is accessible by a pedestrian footbridge on the edge of downtown. Great views looking out on the Youghiogheny River from the bridge. The red trail is a shady 2 mile loop with overlooks to the gorge. The trail was pretty muddy when we visited. Dogs are allowed on leash. On your way back, stop at Falls Market General Store by the bridge,and treat yourself to homemade ice cream. The Cherry Cheesecake flavor...

I love walking along the path right next to the river to get great pix of the falls that you can’t get from the Observation Deck or Visitor Center. In the summer, you will often see people sunning themselves on the rocks in the middle of the river. It’s also fun to watch kayakers going over the falls on guided tours. Definitely only for experienced paddlers though.

CAUTION: This is a wild area, and I have seen snakes...