Chasing Waterfalls: 10 Must-See Cascades Near Pittsburgh

By Emily King

Tucked into the rolling hills and forested ridges of western Pennsylvania, a surprising number of beautiful waterfalls are within a short drive of Pittsburgh. These natural wonders offer serene hikes, perfect photo ops, and a refreshing escape from city life. Whether you’re looking for a day trip or a scenic stop along a weekend adventure, here are ten impressive waterfalls you can reach in under two hours.

1. Cucumber Falls—Ohiopyle State Park

Cucumber Falls in Ohiopyle State Park is one of the most photographed waterfalls in the state. This 36-foot waterfall is situated on Cucumber Run, a tributary of the Youghiogheny River. The best view is from an overlook that is easily reached by a short .3-mile hike. If you want to get closer to the falls, a slightly more challenging hike with a staircase will take you to the base of Cucumber Falls. 

2. Ohiopyle Falls—Ohiopyle State Park

A visit to Ohiopyle State Park will give you a second breathtaking waterfall view—Ohiopyle Falls. These falls aren’t quite as tall as Cucumber Falls, at 20 feet, but they span the width of the Youghiogheny River. The sheer power and force of the water is a sight to behold. You can access Ohiopyle Falls by hiking only half a mile down the Ferncliff Trail to get the best view.

3. Buttermilk Falls—Beaver Falls, PA

Located in Buttermilk Falls Park, just about 45 minutes northwest of Pittsburgh, this 40-foot scenic sandstone formation and waterfall is worth the drive. This park is also home to a historic rock quarry. The falls are just a short walk from the parking area, with a few slight elevation changes and steps. This is one of the few waterfalls in western Pennsylvania that allows visitors to walk behind the cascade. 

4. Springfield Falls—Mercer County

Standing 20 feet tall and 40 feet wide, Springfield Falls spans the width of Hunters Run on State Game Lands 284. You can access the top of the falls just a short walk from the parking area. It is possible to access the base of the falls, but it requires traversing a steep rocky stream bank. Nestled into the side of the falls you will see the remnants of Springfield Furnace, an iron furnace built in the 1830s and in operation until 1862.

5. Fall Run Falls—Shaler Township

Fall Run Falls is just a small cascade, but their proximity to downtown Pittsburgh is what makes it unique. It’s not often that you can visit a gorgeous waterfall just fifteen minutes from a city. This one-mile family-friendly trail leads through a wooded ravine to the falls, which are most spectacular after a good rain. It’s a quick nature escape for city-dwellers looking for a scenic walk. 

6. Freedom Falls—Venango County

Freedom Falls is about a two-hour drive from Pittsburgh in the remote backroads of Venango County. The falls are situated among the ruins of the early 1800s village of Freedom. Most of the evidence of the village is long covered by moss and overgrowth, but you can still visit the ruins of the Rockland Furnace just downstream of the falls. Glimpses of the 20-foot falls are possible just a short walk from the parking area. 

7. Quakertown Falls—Lawrence County

An easy one-hour drive from Pittsburgh will take you to Quakertown Falls, a dramatic 50-foot plunge over layered shale rock. The double-tiered waterfall cascades into a rugged gorge. The area surrounding the falls, known as Quaker Falls, was once a Quaker village that was settled around 1800. You can learn more about the once-thriving town and how it met its tragic demise on the informational placards displayed in the area. 

8. McConnells Mill Falls—McConnells Mill State Park

An hour north of Pittsburgh, McConnells Mill is a popular spot for hiking and sightseeing. Near the historic gristmill, you’ll find a small but beautiful waterfall cascading over the rocks. Though the falls aren’t as large as some listed here, the setting with the historic mill and covered bridge offer picturesque views and photo opportunities.

9. Hell’s Hollow Falls—McConnells Mill State Park

Despite its ominous name, Hell’s Hollow Falls is easy to access via a flat, well-marked trail. On the short hike to the 15-foot falls you’ll see evidence of the area’s industrial past, like an abandoned limestone quarry and underground coal mine, as well as the remains of a lime kiln. 

10. Frankfort Mineral Springs Falls—Raccoon Creek State Park

Frankfort Mineral Springs Falls is in Raccoon Creek State Park, 30 miles from downtown Pittsburgh, is also known for its miles of trails and a stunning wildlife preserve. These falls in Beaver County are known not for their height, but for their dazzling colors. The mineral spring adjacent to the falls was once a destination for wealthy visitors and the spring water was believed to cure different ailments. The one-mile loop trail to the falls follows the creek and offers wildflower views in the spring and summer. The high iron content of the water leaves behind orange streaks along the rock walls surrounding the small falls.