A lovely hike through majestic woodlands treated us to a view of a tranquil waterfall tucked away in Pittsburgh at Settlers Cabin Park. Traversing slightly muddy trails on a recent spring visit was well worth it as we soaked in views of the picturesque waterfall gently trickling over layered rock. Pure bliss!
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| A gentle waterfall trickles over layers of weathered rock at Settlers Cabin Park in Pittsburgh. |
Upon arriving at Settlers Cabin Park in search of this Pittsburgh waterfall, we first noted a number of other amenities inside the 1,600-acre park and could hardly believe the natural treasure we were about to behold. Settlers Cabin Park has a wave pool, basketball courts, a dog park, tennis courts, and more. Amazing to discover it has a waterfall as well! Additionally, there is a historic log cabin dating to 1780. Pretty cool!
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| Rolling woodlands enchanted us even though they had yet to boast the leaves of later spring. |
Embarking on the Waterfall Trail
We eventually reached the trailhead popping out from peaceful woodlands. We embarked on the trail underneath the arbors with chunky, soft-edged rocks serving as borders. As we basked in the natural beauty of the preserve, it was hard to believe that the spot was once a maze of abandoned open and back-filled coal mines. The restored woodlands quickly enchanted us.
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| Spring beauties have begun to pop up on the forest floor at Settlers Cabin Park. |
The preserve is noted for its wildflowers and it certainly did not disappoint even though it was early spring. We spotted spring beauties and colts foot flowers during our hike.
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| Boulders added a little more of nature's own art to the hike. |
Throughout the hike, we ambled on rolling trails some a little steep in areas but not too difficult. We admired a variety of interesting boulders along the way. The hike was incredibly peaceful and we just enjoyed being in the moment. There are a few trails within the preserve but the Waterfall Trail is the most direct to the waterfall itself.
Tip: If exploring Allegheny Mountain waterfalls, don't forget Fall Run Park.
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| A peaceful creek delighted us with a slice of tranquility and a few small rapids within a rocky landscape. |
Discovering the Waterfall
Once we descended down the rocky landscape towards the waterfall, we meandered along a peaceful stream. In a number of areas, we paused to admire gentle little rapids. Near the main waterfall, we noted a smaller, softer waterfall. What a magnificent find.
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| A soft waterfall framed by moss and ferns gently trickles over thin layers of rock. |
The main waterfall is just as striking. We enjoyed a range of vantage points noting a variety of flora as well including ferns and evergreens. We experienced such an idyllic moment which was so welcome after a day of driving in from Chicago. We have visited a variety of Allegheny Mountain waterfalls and each one truly delights!
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| Taking a close look at the waterfall at Settlers Cabin Park. |
Tracing the creek led us to other rock formation discoveries as well as mini rapids. Exploring the preserve presented many natural wonders. We look forward to returning and wandering further.
Incoming rainy weather did not allow us to explore as many trails as we would have liked to. Fortunately, we are in Pittsburgh quite often and would like to enjoy a new wander at Settlers Cabin Park. Part of the preserve also provides a home to the Pittsburgh Botanic Garden which we would like to explore on a nicer weather day. Settlers Cabin Park is a fantastic choice for your next Pittsburgh adventure!
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