McConnells Mill State Park covers over 2,500 acres of the Slippery Rock Creek Gorge. The park features this scenic gorge with a restored watermill and covered bridge. McConnells Mill trails are some of the best that Pennsylvania has to offer.
Read on to learn more about the awesome trails at McConnells Mill!
Looking for more about other Pennsylvania State Parks? Check out my post listing all of my PA State Park Guides or check out some of my favorites, below! - Kinzua Bridge State Park - Ridley Creek State Park
Trails at McConnells Mill
McConnells Mill has over eleven miles of gorgeous hiking trails that can take you past the creek, by some waterfalls, and on some of the best trails in Pennsylvania. The gorge can be colder than the surrounding area, so make sure to wear appropriate footwear and layer up!
Alpha Falls Trail
Alpha Falls is a 1.0-mile hike featuring a 35-foot tall waterfall in the far northeast corner of McConnells Mill. It is marked by blue blazes. Don’t let the short distance fool you! This hike can be challenging when it’s wet and slippery – there are a lot of rocks and roots on the trail.
Hell’s Hollow Falls
Hells Hollow Trail is a 1.2-mile route that features a waterfall. It is a popular route, so get here early to avoid crowds. This trail is mostly flat with some stairs at the bottom. Visit a few days after a rainstorm for a more spectacular waterfall! The waterfall is also lovely when frozen.
Kildoo Trail
Kildoo is a heavily trafficked out and back trail that is 2.3 miles long. This trail runs along the creek and is moderately challenging. As with all trails in this park, it can be slippery when wet or icy!
Slippery Rock Gorge Trail
If you’re really looking for a challenge, check out this 15-mile out and back route. AllTrails rates this trail as hard and they are not wrong. The trail can be slippery and has a lot of rocks and roots. If you want to see all McConnells Mill has to offer and are in good hiking shape, this is the trail for you!
This trail runs along the North Country Trail and therefore is extremely well blazed.
About McConnells Mill
As the name suggests, the main feature of McConnells Mill is a historic mill. The historic gristmill was built in the 1800s to grind grain for the community. There are several observation decks near the mill, that will give you a great view of the Covered Bridge.
The McConnells Mill Covered Bridge is another park centerpiece (and a great spot for a photo op!). The Covered Bridge was built in 1874 and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. It is one of the largest Howe-style truss bridges in PA.
McConnells Mill FAQs
Where is McConnells Mill?
McConnells Mill State Park is a state park located in Lawrence County, Pennsylvania. The park is located about 40 miles north of Pittsburgh.
What are the park hours?
The park is open from sunrise to sunset, year-round.
How can I get to McConnells Mill?
To visit the park, enter the following address into your GPS: 2697 McConnells Mill Road Portersville, PA 16051. This will take you to the parking lot near the mill. If you’re looking to go to the other side of the park to do Slippery Gorge or Hell’s Hollow, put the following GPS coordinates in your phone: 40.931320; -80.240040.
For a printable map of McConnell’s Mill, click here.
How can I visit the mill at McConnells Mill?
The mill is open from Memorial Day through late September on Wednesdays through Sundays from 10:30 AM to 3:30 PM. Group tours may be scheduled at the mill by calling the Moraine Park office at 724-368-8811.
Can you swim at McConnells Mill?
There is no swimming allowed at McConnells Mill. Slippery Rock Creek is a swift and dangerous whitewater creek where many people have drowned. If you are interested in swimming, visit nearby Moraine State Park.
Are dogs allowed at McConnells Mill?
Dogs are allowed at McConnells Mill, but must be controlled and attended at all times. Remember to pick up all pet waste and leave no trace!
Where can I find more waterfalls in the area?
Click here to check out the list of Best Waterfalls Near Pittsburgh! Freedom Falls, in Rockland is only an hour away from McConnells Mill and it’s my favorite waterfall in Pennsylvania. Henry Run Sawmill Dam Falls in Cook Forest State Park is another great waterfall that’s about 80 minutes away from the Mill.
If you want to go further afield, continue about 90 miles northwest to visit Cuyahoga Valley National Park in Ohio, where you can check out the massive Brandywine Falls or the smaller Blue Hen Falls.
For more information about McConnell’s Mill, visit the PA Department of Natural Resources Website.
Looking for more hikes in Pennsylvania? Check out these articles! Frick Park North Park Mortaine State Park
Post Updated July 17, 2022