While many people are drawn to Ohiopyle State Park for the awesome adventure sports -- Whitewater rafting, mountain biking, kayaking, and so forth -- there is much to see and do here that doesn't involve a near-death experience or attaining your maximum heart rate.

One such attraction: the numerous overlooks and vistas speckled throughout the park. Notice the photo icons on this downloadable map of the park. The key thing to remember here is that when Ohiopyle State Park puts a photo icon on the map, they are not messing around. Much of the park is quite beautiful, but the indicated vistas are supremely magestic. Let's run down my top 4:

1. Laurel Highlands trail. Approximately 2.5 miles from the end of Garrett St on the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail is a rocky outcropping that offers a magnificent view of the Great Bend in the Middle Yough. Hike in your camera for this one - you will see miles of trees and river valley, with the river itself flowing far below you.

2. Kentuck. Two benches sit atop a hill, facing a gap in the opposing hillside through which you can see the ridge system in the distance. The kind of spot that makes you feel like you just might be the first one to see this sight.

3. Tharp Knob. Easily my current favorite. You can drive to the softball field area and walk around the Kentuck Trail loop, or you can really earn this view and go up Great Gorge trail, turn left on Kentuck -- passing the Kentuck overlook -- and reach Tharp Knob that way. From this spot you can see the entire town of Ohiopyle (what there is of it) and much of the Middle Yough. Wilderness Voyageurs is just visible to the left of the railway tracks in the picture below:

Beware: this image is zoomed in. For the full view, you will have to go there yourself.

4. Sugarloaf Road. Driving on Sugarloaf road from Ohiopyle to Confluence, you will see an overlook sign on your left. Park in the pulloff and walk up to the rocky outcropping. This is another spectacular view of the Middle Yough.

Do you have any other favorite vistas in Ohiopyle (there's one just outside the park on 381 N just past Scarlett Knob campground, for instance)? Leave a comment and let us know.

Lou

"How far away is Indianapolis from Ohiopyle, anyways?" I get asked this question at least a few times a week; mostly because I talk about Ohiopyle daily - and most people just think Pennsylvania is REALLY far away. But reality is, its not. You can get from Indianapolis to Ohiopyle in about 6 hours! So this weekend, instead of driving the distance alone I took a few Hoosiers with me to do some East Coast rafting! :)
We had a fantastic time on the Lower Yough Saturday morning. I figured for some first timers, the class 5 whitewater rafting might be a little much so we cruised down with the earliest Wilderness Voyaguers trip that puts on the Lower Yough (class 3) @ 10:00AM.We spent the day in the Laurel Highlands watching first time rafters work through the rapids, the WV guides hustle, swimming and having a great time!

To top off the trip.. this weekend marked the 7th Annual Beer & Gear Fest - which, like it sounds, was a festival of micro brewery beer and outdoor gear. Some of the best parts about this festival is that it was that it only costs $12 to get in AND you get a really awesome pint glass to drink out of and keep as a souvenir. And this years cup was designed by one of Ohiopyle's cool cats Megan (pictured). 

So overall we had a blast! Came back and when we came back I talked about it so much that I am going to be bringing a huge group from work back the weekend of July 26th! And because its Ohiopyle, there is always something going on. This weekend Wizdom will be playing at the Falls City Pub! Always a fun time had by all!

    The 2008 rafting season is shaping up to be one of high adventure!  Wilderness Voyageurs is proud to have recruited some of the company's strongest, friendliest, most knowledgable and experienced "rookies" ever.  Some came with years of experience on rivers all over the country, some came with class V kayaking skills while others just came with the determination and eagerness to learn as much as possible.
    Training began back in April when the water was colder and so was the air.  Returning every weekend to learn such skills as raft handling, trip management and first aid, these fresh river guides were put to the test both physically and mentally.  After 5 intense weekends and at least 20 training runs down the Lower Youghiogheny only the best were invited back to become full time river guides for the 2008 summer season. 

Here is Callie from California (yes, it is just a coincidence).  Callie is new to rivers but comes with experience in other adventure sports such as skiing and snowboarding.  She was one of the first to check out on the river, getting her training trips in as quick as possible while also taking every opportunity to explore other rivers, building upon her experience even more. 





Next we have Nick, or "Darkness."  Here nick shows off his quick reflexes and big guns by getting his crew back in the raft faster than you can say paddle!
Brian comes to Wilderness Voyageurs with raft guiding experience on rivers such as the New and Upper Gauley.  His strong work ethic and commitment have allowed him to jump right into the trip leader position.  He has also been able to work on his kayaking skills by getting on many local creeks and rivers during our spring high water season.







Here is Kent.  He means business.


    These, and all of our other new river guides, have allowed us to start off the season with a bang.  Their hard work and dedication to improving their skills and having a great time mean that your day on the river will be the best ever.  Come out to Wilderness Voyageurs in the Laurel Highlands for Yough River Rafting at its greatest!

Here is a video of a really good kayaking and rafting trip to the Big Sandy that the Wilderness Voyageurs staff took last Monday. Some of the rookies are really shaping up, so we brought them along to let them strut their stuff. A blast was had by all as the weather was excellent and the water was plentiful and cool.

The other day some of Wilderness Voyageurs' guests had the rare priveledge of taking a guided Big Sandy trip. We are very fortunate this year to have such an awesome, adventuresome staff and clientele.

The Big Sandy is a Class 5 run in West Virginia, but at this point in the season if you are interested in extreme east coast whitewater check out the Upper Yough. There is still a good bit of natural flow in that river, so with the added water from the release you can have an inordinate amount of high adventure fun in the sun!

By the way, video editing sofware is way too much fun, and makes it far too easy to get wacky with creativity. I'm curious to know what people think of the videos they've been seeing on this blog. Please feel free to leave comments!

Lou

Rain, rain, don't go away. We love it. If there was to be a time for a trip to visit the yough river in Ohiopyle this would be it. Water levels are outstanding providing high adventure and excitement. Big water rafting cannot be beat and with water levels matching that of the Gauley and New rivers action with much less of a drive. Guest numbers are still low so trips are small and personable. Guides are trying to make the most of the time knowing all too well that low water will be here soon. Kayaking action is at its hight as temperatures rise and the winter rust is shaken off, folks are going big with every opportunity that presents itself. If you are looking for a new run and need someone to boat with the wilderness voyageurs staff have the runs down. The Cheat river continues to hold strong providing huge water action in one of the most beautiful canyons in all of the East Coast. If you are looking for high adventure regarless of what the pesimistic forcaster might say ohiopyle is your place to be to enjoy the liquid sunshine. See you out there. Josh

No one doesn't like spring here in the Laurel Highlands.  Periods of summer-like warmth dispersed between days of pure rain showers.  Some days are still chilly, but occasionally there is that day where the river is high and the sun couldn't be any brighter.  The Cheat Canyon is known for days like this.

Seeing small streams turn into waterfalls as they drop over the colorful canyon wall on river left as you drop into the crashing waves of the rapid High Falls might be one of the most beautiful sights of all West Virginia river rafting.  The transition into spring also means the full spectrum of the color green is filling in the mountain sides, dotted with bright purple Redbud flowers.   Just another moment where I find myself sitting back in my kayak
wondering how my life got to be this good. 

So there are pretty trees and unique rock formations, but let's be honest, we're here to crash into big holes and fly over the top of huge waves, paddling as hard as we can to avoid a very rough swim.  Here is a taste of one of our rafting trips on this incredibly scenic, always exciting, east coast river.





Don't let spring pass you by this year. Get out on

those rivers while they are running and see what

you're been missing!

...because I sure do.

The Lower Yough has earned its reputation as one of the best and most popular rivers on the East Coast, because it's great fun all summer long.

But now is the time to go! The water is higher and the crowds are fewer in the spring. Bigger fun, less waiting, plus off-season rates. Worried about being cold? Rent a wetsuit or splash top. Besides, you've got edge-of-your-seat adrenaline and paddling like a maniac to keep you warm. Done the Lower Yough a dozen times? Come in the spring; it will feel like your first time.

The same philosophy applies to the class 5 gem of the East, the Upper Yough. Deep Creek hydro station follows the release schedule regardless of natural flow, which means jucier rafting at this time of year. Ask any river guide what's better than the Upper Yough and they'll tell you, "The only thing better is the Upper Yough with more water."

Bottom line: if you are a true whitewater afficionado, or just a summer fan looking for a better ride, then Your Time Is Now.

Lou

A lot of people know Ohiopyle State  Park  for it's famous Yough River Rafting but did you  know that this park is packed with world class Mountain Biking.  I guess they haven't noticed the topography that creates all those rapids :-)

If you are looking get out as part of a white water rafting trip or just to get in some terrific Mountain Biking.  Come to Ohiopyle PA.  

Oh, and Wilderness Voyageurs has a  bike shop with a full time Mechanic available every weekend.

I think what I like the most about Yough River Rafting is the clear clean water and the quality and frequency of the rapids.   We also were able to do some fishing and some great Mountain Biking.

Thanks Wilderness Voyageurs!

A lot of people forget about Fallingwater when they are going Yough River Rafting or visiting the Laurel Highlands.  Fallingwater is an outstanding detour for those in your party who aren't into high adventure trips or frankly for your whole group.

Fallingwater is a spectacular house designed by Frank Lloyd Wright here in the Mountains of Pennsylvania.   It's a great stop for people of all ages so space can be limited.  Best bet is to make your arrangements the same time you reserve your rafting trip.   Email us:  rafting@wilderness-voyageurs.com

Fun group high adventure trips are what summer on the Youghiogheny are all about. If you are looking for similar Pennsylvania fun or are considering River Rafting in West Virginia join us for the best of East Coast Rafting.   For more information, send us an email: rafting@wilderness-voyageurs.com and we will be glad to help make this the best summer ever.

Outdoor Activities Near Washington DC

Why wait for summer camp when looking for High Adventure Tirps or Weekends with your family.  The Laurel Highlands offer great Outdoor Activities for all ages.   Ohiopyle has some great fun climbing to go along with yough river rafting.   One of our expert (and friendly) guides Josh is shown here checking knots on a young climber from the Indianapolis area.   Wilderness Voyagers is only 6 hours from Indianapolis and makes for a great family weekend escape.

For more information just send us an email:  rafting@wilderness-voyageurs.com

I wanted to share this great picture of our Wilderness Voyagers guide Jared on a wild ride through Hienzerling Rapid on the mighty Upper Youghiogheny.   If you are looking for Class 5 White Water Rafting and some real High Adventure Trips, Jared and the rest of our expert guide staff are ready to rock!

Last year the Upper began running on Saturdays too so you don't need to miss work.  If you want to go, book early.  All you have to do is send us an email rafting@wilderness-voyageurs.com

A whitewater rafting trip down the Yough River in Ohiopyle doesn't have to end with the  Rafting.  Wilderness Voyagers offers some great guided climbing for both experts and beginners alike.   A really fun day can be had for a family that begins with a fun & easy bike ride down the rails to trails path that runs through beautiful forrest and along the exciting Youghiogheny River.   About a mile downstream is a great set of rocks that are perfect for top-roping and an excellent spot to practice your skills, or introduce your children to the great sport of Rock Climbing.  If you are looking for Great Pennsylvania Family Trips in the Laurel Highlands you will find this to be one of the best outdoor activities near Washington DC or anywhere for that matter.

Matt here is 5 years old and just coming off a great day on the Middle Yough.   What many people don't know  is that the River in and around Ohiopyle  is broken into sections.   Most people run the Lower Yough...this is one of the most popular east coast rafting  rivers.   It's great because there are lot's of fun rapids and a real sense of a high adventure trip.   The age limit on the Lower Yough is 12.   If Your Pennsylvania Family Trips include members younger than 12 you might want to consider the Middle Yough.  Wilderness Voyagers take rafters as young as 5 on the Middle.  It's a fun day that included a great shore lunch, terrific guides and if you like we can even throw on some inflatable kayaks.

The Middle Yough is a great trip thats one of the great family outdoor activities near Washington DC or Columbus Ohio or Cincinnati....we even get families from Indiana that come in for the weekend.

The Upper Yough is an east coast rafting gem.  No other Class 5 white water can compare to the continuous and action-packed nature of the Upper Yough. 

Surfing at National...











Doing back flips into National...



Or an innocent ride in the pickle...

Peace out,
The Zan

Here is a small taste of West Virginia Class 5 White Water Rafting. This creek requires significant rain to run, but on days when the Upper Yough is too high to safely navigate, we have been known to guide commercial rafting trips on the Big Sandy, a class V tributary of the Cheat River.

It's also a favorite kayaking run among the Wilderness Voyageurs staff. Yesterday Susan and I braved the cold and sleet to take in the awesome scenery and excellent rapids. The level was perfect - about 6.5ft on the bridge gauge. We decided to film some of the rapids, and this video is my cut of the footage. Hope you enjoy!

Thanks for watching!

Lou

 

Rain has hit the Laurel Highlands! Making Yough River Rafting very exciting for the first trip of the year. Cheers to Jason & Adam for taking on the snow and the highwater for some fun March East Coast Rafting! It was a fun day out there. With the great water, the cold was hardly noticed. The sun decided to peak out a bit as well. Spring is near!

As appealing as paddling the Top Yough at freezing temperatures may be, for most of us warm blooded creatures there is another option. For the last two winters Wilderness Voyageurs has had representation (Kaila Woodside and Josh Lawrey) in the white water paradise of Costa Rica. With its steep volcanic mountains, ample rainfall and warm tropical temperatures, Costa Rica makes for a terrific white water destination for those seeking action packed adventure trips or to shake the winter rust off those paddling muscles.

Did I mention its warm. Actually that can be an understatement. Much of Costa Rica is considered by most as "Tropical rainforest", but that does not remotely do it justic. Within its borders, Costa Rica boasts one of the most biologically diverse and ecologically important areas in the world. If one were to take a walk from the East cost and start walking inland up into the mountains they would travel through many different "life zones" depending on the amount of rain and sunlight the area receives. It is like changing the channel ever thousand feet or so. Starting in low land wet forests so dense that they are impenetrable to gigantic pre-montain forests full of life then up into the wind swept scrub of the highland volcanic mountains.

Costa Rica's wildlife cannot begin to be described in this blog. Nearly 900 species of birds constantly challenge even the most seasoned birders. Monkeys, sloth’s and large cats are always on the minds of eager tourists waiting to catch a glimpse. It is also astounding that 10 percent of the world's butterflies and 15 percent of the world's amphibians make this there home. Simply AMAZING!

The Eastern slope or Caribbean side receives the most rain as Easterlies carry warm wet air up the mountains and dropping it as it cools. Whole mountain ranges can be clouded for months dumping prodigious amounts of rain. Over 300 inches in some places. That is over 21 feet of rain and only one way to go, Down! The white water is amazing and numerous rivers/creeks have never been run.

Commercial white water rafting trips are very popular with the large amount of foreign tourists that visit this spectacular place. It is also very popular with snow frightened raft guides and photo boaters seeking refuge and winter employment. Which is what I was after. I worked for Rios Tropicales, the most prominent commercial white water company in all of Latin America. They have an amazing set up and raft over 300 days a year.
 
Wilderness Voyageurs' extensive raft guide training and diverse river work opportunities provide for very marketable skills down there. Raft trips are always guide in boat and safety boaters assist all trips. The two main rivers that are run are the Pacuare and Reventazon. Both are excellent sections that vary dramatically with water levels. October through January is the best time to run on good water , but they will drop sharply off in December. Still a lot of fun. The Pacuare is class 3-4 with continuous technical rapids on a 17 mile single day trip. You can split it up and stay at Rios Tropicales' Pacuare Lodge. Beautiful only way to say it. Waterfalls, zip lines, toucan’s, sloth’s, swimming holes, gourmet food provided by the guides and so much more. 

The Reventizon is big fun and has 3 sections from class 4-5 and down to a nice tropical birding float. The Tico "Costa Rican" guides are very skilled and fun. They make an honest living entertaining and educating clients on many unique adventure trips offered. They work hard and long days often having to ride the shuttle bus to and form work 3-5 hours a day.

Over 80 percent of the people on the trips speak English, but knowing a fair amount of Spanish is very helpful. Tico's are very generous and being able to speak with them only helps you make your way around this beautiful place. Don’t worry about driving, not that you would want to there as they are horrendous drivers, but you can get around easily by bus.

If you have the opportunity either to work or just to travel, a trip to this place will provide an experience like no other. Please visit our river friends of Rios Tropicales and join us back at Wilderness Voyageurs to share your  white water adventures with us. WV guides, you need to get there.
See you back at the Yough

PURA VIDA!
Josh Lawrey