Who doesn’t love a waterfall? Perhaps Mother Nature’s most perfect creation, a cascading waterfall provides the perfect backdrop for a bit of relaxing and for unforgettable photos. Pittsburgh and the surrounding area lay claim to several simply gorgeous waterfalls near me. The beauty of these six easy-access waterfalls near Pittsburgh, in fact, will likely take your breath away.
1. Fall Run – Glenshaw
The lone waterfall in Allegheny County, tucked in Fall Run Park, Fall Run Waterfall sits at the end of an easy and scenic 1-mile trail. Follow the kid-friendly trail, which features a picturesque footbridge and plenty of shade, that leads straight to the waterfall that cascades down 30 feet. The trail takes you to the base of the waterfall. However, if you’re up for climbing a few stairs, head up the staircase for spectacular overhead views of Fall Run Waterfall.
2. Cucumber Falls – Ohiopyle
Our next two waterfalls, nestled in Ohiopyle State Park, are probably the easiest waterfalls to reach. Just under an hour and a half drive from downtown Pittsburgh, Ohiopyle State Park is the perfect summer destination. When you arrive at the park, keep an eye out for the signs to Cucumber Falls. Pull into the small parking lot, where you can admire the 30-foot waterfall from above. For views from the base, head down the staircase. (You can even feel the mist of the waterfall by walking behind it.)
3. Ohiopyle Falls – Ohiopyle
Ohiopyle Falls sits less than a mile from Cucumber Falls, and you’ve got several spots to view it. If the Ohiopyle State Park Office is open when you visit, pop inside to learn more about the park and for stunning views of the 20-foot waterfall. Outside, you can head to one of several viewing areas that also offer gorgeous views of Ohiopyle Falls.
4. Buttermilk Falls – Beaver Falls
The next two easy-access waterfalls both tumble down in Beaver Falls and are just over six miles apart, making them easy to visit in a single day. Buttermilk Falls, the masterpiece of Buttermilk Falls Natural Area, is at the end of a short 10 to 15-minute walk. The walk’s easy and picturesque, culminating at the base of the 40-foot waterfall. For unique views of Buttermilk Falls, walk behind it. (On hot days, some visitors wade in the pool into which the waterfall drops.)
5. Sahli Nature Park – Beaver Falls
Wear comfy shoes for your stroll through the 90-acre Sahli Nature Park, which we think is one of Pittsburgh's best-kept secrets! The nature park boasts an abundance of natural beauty – from a shimmering pond to a butterfly house. Sit on one of the benches and admire the water and the wildlife. One of the park’s ponds features a beautiful waterfall.
6. Springfield Falls – Mercer County
About an hour’s drive from downtown Pittsburgh, Springfield Falls is really easy to reach. Park in the small parking lot that sits across the street from the waterfall. Admire views of the tumbling 20-foot waterfall that spans 40 feet from above. If you’re up for an adventure, you can hike to the base of the waterfall. However, the climb is steep and can be slippery, so be really careful.
What are your favorite easy-access waterfalls near Pittsburgh? Are there any waterfalls you would add to the list? Let us know in the comments!
Still pining to see some "waterfalls near me" in our little corner of Pennsylvania? If you feel like heading out on a scenic hike, here are a few picturesque hikes that will allow you to see seven waterfalls in Pittsburgh in a single day.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!