Meadow Run Trail

The hike has views of two waterfalls, the Youghiogheny River, and the gorge cut by Meadown Run as it flows into the Youghiogheny. There are also natural waterslides along the trail. The Meadow Run Trail begins on the hillside above Meadow Run, which flows into the Youghiogheny River. Take the southernmost of the three branches of the trail that are visible at the trailhead. (The middle branch cuts off about a mile of the trail, and the northernmost branch is a shortcut to the natural waterslides.) The first quarter mile of the trail is a steep uphill hike through forest. After reaching the crest of the hill, the trail winds downhill to a large rock outcrop before taking a northerly course along Meadow Run. The outcrop is fun to explore because the softer rock near the bottom has been eroded, leaving an overhang and a cave-like depression in the rock. The trail follows Meadow Run until it reaches the Youghiogheny River. Along the way the trail passes the Cascades, a small but lovely waterfall that can be climbed in places, and Flat Rock, a sandstone outcrop protruding into Meadow Run. From Flat Rock, there is an impressive view of the gorge that has been carved out by the creek. Right before the confluence with the Youghiogheny, there are two natural waterslides that have been cut out of the bedrock by Meadow Run. In spring and summer the waterslides are a very popular attraction, so expect crowds here, especially on weekends. After the waterslides the trail crosses PA 381 and follows the course of the Youghiogheny. The trail is rocky here and can be muddy in places, but there are nice views of the river. The trail ends at Cucumber Falls, a beautiful thirty-foot waterfall. Cucumber falls is another great place to stop and explore. With a little scramble climbing, you can get right behind the falls.