The Middle 'Yough' from Ramcat to Ohiopyle - 8.7 Miles
Details
Join us for a scenic 8.7-mile paddle on the Middle Youghiogheny River, one of the most beautiful sections of water in Pennsylvania. This stretch, from Ramcat to Ohiopyle, is perfect for beginners and casual paddlers, offering gentle Class I-II rapids, stunning mountain views, and clear water flowing through the Laurel Highlands.
We’ll take a relaxed pace, allowing time to enjoy the river’s beauty, practice paddling skills, and maybe even spot some wildlife along the way. This is a great trip for those looking to get comfortable with moving water or just enjoy a day outdoors with good company.
WHO SHOULD ATTEND
This trip is ideal for paddlers with some experience on moving water and looking to try light whitewater. The Middle Yough (rymes with Rock) provides a taste of moving water with Class I-II rapids. If you're comfortable maneuvering a kayak and can handle light rapids, you'll have a fantastic time!
SHUTTLE LOGISTICS
We'll coordinate a shuttle to transport vehicles between the put-in at Ramcat Launch and the take-out in Ohiopyle. If you need help arranging transport, let us know in the comments.
THE PADDLE
We will start by meeting at Ohiopyle State Park Ramcat Access Point. We will unload boats and gear and move our items to the water's edge. At the put in there is a very nice restroom and large parking area. We will want to ensure that we park in a location that will not impede the outfitters that are in operation there. Once gear is readied, we will ask a few members of our group to stay with our gear while we move (shuttle) as many vehicles as possible to the take-out.
• Start
We will push of from the shoreline at 10:30 AM + or - on Saturday morning
• Finish
We should be out of the water 1:30 PM + or -
• Duration
Approximately 4-5 hours on the water
• Pace
We will take a leisurely paddle giving plenty of time for camera opportunities
• Distance
This paddle is 8.7 miles
• Difficulty
Class I-II (Beginner-Friendly)
This paddle is suitable for paddlers with some moving water experience. You must be 18 years of age or older and sign the liability waiver. It's not a hard paddle; however, it is a long paddle and there are obstacles to maneuver.
• Restrooms
There are restrooms available at the put-in and takeout.
• Food
Bring enough food, water and snacks for the duration of the event. We will have lunch on the river.
GEAR REQUIREMENTS
- Kayak or Canoe (Recreational or whitewater boats are fine)
- Paddle
- PFD (Life Jacket) – Required at all times on the water
- Helmet (Recommended, but optional for Class I-II water)
- Dry bag for essentials (snacks, phone, etc.)
- Weather-appropriate clothing (quick-dry layers, water shoes)
- Plenty of water and snacks
DIRECTIONS
GRUB
You are on your own for meal planning for this event. Bring a shore lunch, snacks and plenty of water. The group usually finds a place for dinner after the paddle.
RIVER CONDITIONS
We’ll monitor water levels leading up to the trip and will notify participants of any changes.
- Youghiogheny River at Ohiopyle, PA - 03081500
WEATHER
MAPS AND INFORMATION
ACCIDENT WAIVER AND RELEASE OF LIABILITY
Your yes RSVP and by attending this event acknowledges that you have read and agree to my accident waiver and release of liability. With this in mind, please remember that I am not your guide. I am a fellow paddler that is offering notice of a group of friends that are gathering to share in ride-share to enable a fun day on the water for all. I love you guys, but I love my family more.
WHERE TO STAY
- Our meetup for: Camping at Ohio Pyle River State Park - Memorial Day!
CANCELLATION
The paddle will be cancelled in the event of inclement weather or unsuitable river conditions. IMPORTANT: Check this MEETUP event page on Friday morning for last minute details and watch your email for additional updates.
GUESTS
No guests allowed. Have your friend sign up on MeetUp, join the group, and RSVP to ensure they acknowledge the accident waiver and release of liability.
OTHER NOTES
🍃 Leave No Trace: Pack out what you pack in and respect the environment.
👉 Spots are limited, so RSVP early! Looking forward to a fantastic day on the water with all of you!
NOTE: The details to this event are subject to change.
The Middle 'Yough' from Ramcat to Ohiopyle - 8.7 Miles