Jonathan Run Lower Falls Gorge

A tough to access gorge rewards with the spectacle of Lower Jonathan Run Falls tumbling up to fifteen feet and splashing off a slab of broken sandstone rock. While you can glance through vegetation and experience the Lower Jonathan Run Falls from afar without climbing into its gorge the treacherous climb is worth it for those able to make it down. The trail leading down has been eroded into a steep angle that is particularly challenging after the leaf drop in fall. Once at the bottom you can meander around a fallen tree to get a head on view of the falls or climb an embankment to get an unimpeded view looking down on the waterfall. The loud sound and fresh water scent seems to engulf the whole gorge so don't be surprised if you turn around to discover a visitor you didn't hear has joined you in paying homage to the falls. Like many waterfalls at Ohiopyle, the waterfall tumbles over a shelf that is hollowed out underneath making it possible for daredevils to climb behind it but this one will certainly get you wet in the process.

Caution

The gorge is remote and very steep. Snakes may be present in the area.

How to Access

Most people will access the falls by bike riding on the Great Allegheny Passage Trail until they reach the Jonathan Run Trail and follow it until a side trail leading to Jonathan Run coincides with the sound of a distant waterfall. Others will hike down from the Jonathan Run Trailhead and keep their eye out for the side trail after they had left the Upper Jonathan Run Falls.

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Adjacent Places

More Information

Jonathan Run Lower Falls Gorge is located in Pennsylvania.