Most of the visitors to Ohiopyle may think that summer is the best time to visit, ride the Great Allegheny Passage, or do some whitewater rafting on the Youghiogheny River. But we have a big tip to share with you, Fall is a WONDERFUL time to visit! With the changing of the weather and the leaves, Ohiopyle becomes a sleepy little town with few visitors but lots to see and do.

Now is the perfect time to enjoy the Great Allegheny Passage. The days are starting to cool off just enough to make a leisurely ride on the trail really enjoyable. Or just come to Ohiopyle for a stroll on one of many hiking trails in the Ohiopyle State Park. A hike around the Ferncliff Peninsula takes you to the edge of the Ohiopyle Falls and through this wonderful National Natural Landmark. Make a day of it and stop in at the Ohiopyle House Cafe for a nice lunch. Try their seasonal specials like Pumpkin Black Bean Chili or Pumpkin Cheesecake. And don’t forget to top it off with a great seasonal brew, like Southern Tier’s Pumpking. But, remember, these awesome fall flavors only last a limited time!

Whitewater rafting in the fall is a special experience, especially during the week. Trip sizes are often much smaller than during the summer, making for a more personalized trip format. And with all the rain we experienced this summer, water levels should be excellent. We have wetsuits available for rent at check-in if the temperatures happen to be chilly. We are offering great discounts for Fall rafting too! Be sure to check out our Specials page.

If nothing else, make sure you stop in town for the annual Fall Buckwheat Supper starting on Friday October 12. Hours will be Friday and Saturday from 10-8 and Sunday from 10-2.  The supper includes all you can eat buckwheat cakes and pancakes, home fries, applesauce, and pickles, plus a generous serving of whole hog sausage and a beverage. This event benefits the Ohiopyle-Stewart Volunteer Fire Company and the Ohiopyle-Stewart Community Center.

The Buckwheat Supper also features live entertainment in the gazebo at the Stewart Place on the Green located on Sherman Street across from the fire hall and community center. There will also be local craft vendors set up along Lincoln Street between the fire hall and community center and Backyard Garden’s Lincoln Street Market and Oddly Enough will be open featuring fresh local produce, other local goods and wine, clothing, and jewelry. The physical location of the Fire Hall is 17 Sherman Street, Ohiopyle, PA 15470.

The fall foliage is to be at its peak in the Laurel Highlands starting October 2 through October 15. And for a more detailed listing of other Fall festivals in the Laurel Highlands, visit www.laurelhighlands.org.