The best walks and hikes in Mcconnells Mill State Park
4.6
(25)
190
hikers
16
hikes
Hiking in Mcconnells Mill State Park is centered around the Slippery Rock Creek Gorge, a National Natural Landmark characterized by its deep, steep-sided gorge, massive boulders, and exposed rock formations. The landscape was shaped by glacial activity, creating a rugged environment with waterfalls, rapids, and carved sandstone. Hikers can explore diverse terrain, including old-growth forests and the banks of Slippery Rock Creek.
Best hiking trails in Mcconnells Mill State Park
- The most popular hiking route is Kildoo Trail, a…
Last updated: May 12, 2026
7
hikers
11.1km
03:03
170m
170m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
791m
00:12
0m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.7
(7)
47
hikers
6.12km
01:40
90m
90m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.7
(3)
45
hikers
3.99km
01:06
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
hikers
9.71km
02:40
160m
160m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Mcconnells Mill State Park
Tips from the Community
McConnells Mill State Park, located on 2,546 acres, features the striking Slippery Rock Creek Gorge, a National Natural Landmark formed by glacial lake drainage. The gorge is known for its steep sides, boulderous valley, and scenic overlooks and waterfalls. The park also offers tours of a historic gristmill and a covered bridge from the 1800s. Open year-round from sunrise to sunset, the park's day-use areas close at dusk.
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The McConnell's Mill Covered Bridge, built in 1874, stretches across Slippery Rock Creek. This wooden bridge, constructed using the Howe truss design, rests on a stone foundation and is reinforced by steel. It is one of only four remaining Howe truss bridges in Pennsylvania. The bridge was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1980.
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Daniel Kennedy opened a gristmill on Slippery Rock Creek in 1852. The mill was rebuilt after a fire in 1868. McConnell acquired the mill in 1875, replacing the waterwheel with turbines and grindstones with rolling mills, making it one of the first of its kind in the country. The mill ground various grains until it closed in 1928. The ownership passed to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania in 1957, leading to the formal dedication of McConnells Mill State Park. Today is the mill. Today, interpretive tours of the historic mill are available at 1:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. in the summer. For interpretive tours for groups, call the Moraine Park office at 724-368-8811.
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Old water operated mill with dam. Open during the summer.
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The trail to this fall is not on most maps, just keep walking down the gorge opposite of the North Country trail. You will have to turn around and backtrack after visiting the fall. There are some markers leading up to the falls. Be safe.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed on the trails in McConnells Mill State Park?
Yes, dogs are welcome in McConnells Mill State Park but must be kept on a leash and under physical control at all times. The trails can be rocky and steep in places, so ensure your dog is comfortable with challenging terrain.
Which trails have waterfalls?
The park is famous for its waterfalls. The Hells Hollow Trail is a short, scenic path leading to Hell's Hollow Falls. For a view of the impressive 60-foot Alpha Falls, you can take the Alpha Pass Trail. The Kildoo Trail also features several smaller, charming waterfalls along the creek.
Can you recommend an easy, family-friendly hike?
For a relatively short and straightforward walk suitable for many families, consider the McConnells Mill State Park loop from McConnells Mill State Park. It's a gentle 2-mile (3.2 km) walk that gives you a great feel for the park's scenery without significant elevation changes.
What is a good option for a challenging hike?
If you're looking for a demanding trek, the McConnells Mill State Park loop from Ellport is the most difficult route in this collection. At 13.5 miles (21.7 km), it requires significant stamina and navigating the park's rugged and varied terrain.
Is there a trail that goes to the historic gristmill and covered bridge?
Yes, the McConnell’s Mill Trail & Kildoo Trail loop is a popular route that takes you directly past the historic McConnell's Mill and across the picturesque covered bridge over Slippery Rock Creek.
What is the scenery like along Slippery Rock Creek?
Hiking along Slippery Rock Creek is a dramatic experience. The trails follow the deep, steep-sided gorge, which is a National Natural Landmark. You'll navigate through dense forests, scramble over house-sized boulders, and enjoy constant views of the rushing creek below.
Are there any good moderate-length hikes?
A great option for a moderately challenging hike is the McConnells Mill State Park loop from Portersville. This 8.8-mile (14.1 km) trail offers a longer exploration of the park's forests and varied terrain than the shorter loops, providing a solid workout with beautiful scenery.
Can I go hiking in McConnells Mill State Park during the winter?
Yes, hiking in winter offers a unique perspective of the gorge and its frozen waterfalls. However, the trails can be extremely icy and slippery. It is crucial to wear appropriate footwear with traction devices like microspikes and to dress in warm layers.
Where is the best place to park?
Parking is available at several locations throughout the park. For the Hells Hollow Trail, there is a dedicated parking area off Shaffer Road. For trails around the historic mill, like the Kildoo Trail, you can find parking near the gristmill and the covered bridge. Arrive early on weekends as lots can fill up quickly.
How do the hikes here compare to Moraine State Park?
McConnells Mill offers a more rugged and challenging hiking experience, defined by its steep, rocky gorge. Moraine State Park, by contrast, features gentler, rolling hills and trails that primarily circle Lake Arthur, like the Under US 422 – View of Lake Arthur loop. Choose McConnells Mill for dramatic gorge scenery and Moraine for lakeside views.
What do other hikers think of the trails in McConnells Mill State Park?
The trails are highly regarded by the komoot community. Reviewers frequently praise the stunning gorge scenery, the well-maintained paths, and the satisfying challenge of the rocky terrain. The mix of waterfalls, forests, and historic landmarks makes it a favorite destination.
Besides hiking, what other activities are available in the park?
McConnells Mill State Park is also a popular spot for other outdoor pursuits. Experienced kayakers can tackle the whitewater rapids of Slippery Rock Creek. The park is also one of the few in Pennsylvania that permits rock climbing and rappelling in designated areas. Fishing and picnicking are other popular activities.
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