The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Mcconnells Mill State Park
4.6
(25)
190
hikers
12
hikes
Hiking in McConnells Mill State Park offers family friendly hiking trails through a rugged and picturesque landscape shaped by glacial activity. The park encompasses 2,546 acres, featuring a deep, scenic gorge formed by Slippery Rock Creek, which is recognized as a National Natural Landmark. The terrain is characterized by steep-sided valleys, massive boulders, and old-growth forests, providing a diverse environment for outdoor exploration. This region provides a variety of trails suitable for families, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging…
Last updated: May 13, 2026
7
hikers
11.1km
03:03
170m
170m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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.
Sign up for free
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.
3.0
(2)
16
hikers
3.25km
00:51
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
hikers
2.65km
00:43
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
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.
1
0
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.
0
0
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.
0
0
Old water operated mill with dam. Open during the summer.
1
0
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.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are there in McConnells Mill State Park?
McConnells Mill State Park offers a good selection of family-friendly hiking trails. Our guide features 11 routes, with 6 rated as easy and 4 as moderate, making them suitable for various family abilities.
Are there easy trails suitable for young children or strollers?
While many trails in McConnells Mill State Park are rugged due to the gorge's geology, there are easier options. For very young children, the half-mile out-and-back Hell's Hollow Trail is a great choice, leading to Hell's Hollow Falls. For slightly older children, routes like the McConnells Mill State Park loop from McConnells Mill State Park (3.9 km) offer an easy, shorter experience. Stroller accessibility is limited due to the natural, uneven terrain.
Can we see waterfalls on these family-friendly trails?
Yes, McConnells Mill State Park is home to several beautiful waterfalls. Hell's Hollow Falls is easily accessible via the Hell's Hollow Trail. You can also discover Kildoo Falls along the Kildoo Trail, which is rated as easy and suitable for families. Alpha Falls and Breakneck Falls are also notable, especially after heavy rains.
Are there any historic landmarks or interesting sights for kids to explore?
Absolutely! A highlight for families is the historic 19th-century gristmill and the adjacent McConnell's Mill Covered Bridge, built in 1874. These offer a fascinating glimpse into the area's past. The Hell's Hollow Trail also leads to a historic lime kiln, providing another point of interest.
Are there any family-friendly loop trails in the park?
Yes, there are several loop options perfect for families. The McConnells Mill State Park loop from McConnells Mill State Park is an easy 3.2 km loop. For a slightly longer, easy option, consider the 3.9 km McConnells Mill State Park loop from McConnells Mill State Park. The Kildoo Trail is also a 2-mile (3.2 km) loop that follows Slippery Rock Creek.
What is the best time of year to hike with family in McConnells Mill State Park?
Spring and fall are generally the best times for family hiking in McConnells Mill State Park. In spring, wildflowers bloom, and waterfalls are often at their fullest. Fall offers spectacular foliage. Summer can be warm and humid, but the shaded gorge provides some relief. Winter hiking is possible but requires appropriate gear for potentially icy or snowy conditions.
Where can we park when visiting family-friendly trails?
Parking is available at various points throughout McConnells Mill State Park. Key parking areas include those near the historic gristmill and covered bridge, which provide access to trails like the Kildoo Trail. There is also parking available near Hell's Hollow Falls for access to the Hell's Hollow Trail. Always check park maps for specific trailhead parking.
What do other hikers enjoy most about family-friendly trails in McConnells Mill State Park?
The komoot community highly rates the trails in McConnells Mill State Park, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers frequently praise the park's unique geological features, the beauty of Slippery Rock Creek Gorge, and the charm of the historic gristmill and covered bridge. The opportunity to discover multiple waterfalls is also a big draw for families.
Are there any scenic viewpoints accessible for families?
Yes, Cleland Rock offers impressive views of the Slippery Rock Creek Gorge and is generally accessible. While some of the more challenging trails provide dramatic vistas, Cleland Rock is a good option for families seeking a scenic overlook without a strenuous hike.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family-friendly hikes?
Even on family-friendly routes, the terrain in McConnells Mill State Park can be rugged. The park is known for its deep gorge, which means trails often feature uneven surfaces, rocks, roots, and some elevation changes. While easy trails minimize steepness, sturdy footwear is always recommended for everyone in the family.
Can we combine different trails for a longer family adventure?
Yes, many of the trails connect, allowing for longer, customized family adventures. For example, the Slippery Rock Gorge and Kildoo Trail Loop combines two popular paths for a moderate 11 km hike, offering a more extensive experience of the park's natural beauty and historic sites.
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
