Youghiogheny River

Information

Geography
?}
The Youghiogheny River, or "Yough" as many locals call it, begins in the mountains of West Virginia and Maryland before flowing into the Youghiogheny River Lake (reservoir). The Youghiogheny River emerges after a dam at Confluence, PA, where it is joined by water from the Casselman River and Laurel Hill Creek before flowing with class II and III whitewater rapids prior to Ohiopyle, PA, where the Youghiogheny River makes a dramatic 20 - 25 foot plunge at Ohiopyle State Park, PA's Ohiopyle Falls. Class III, IV and V rapids begin at Ohiopyle, PA and continue for nearly eight miles before the river begins to calm as it nears South Connellsville, PA. The Youghiogheny River's personality becomes gentler beginning at Connellsville, PA, after which it meanders until its confluence with the Monongahela River at McKeesport, PA.
History
?} The name of the Youghiogheny River is attributed to the Kanhawha Indians who had several villages around the river's highland waters. Youghiogheny translates to "four rapid streams," in reference to the junction of rivers in Confluence, PA.
Recreation
?}
While the B & O Railroad lines the eastern bank, access to the western bank of the Youghiogheny River is available from the Youghiogheny River Trail (a corridor of the Great Allegheny Passage Trail). A common sight along the 70+ mile trail are anglers bike riding to their favorite fishing spots.