8. (Connellsville River Park to River Road, Dawson)

Floating the Youghiogheny River (“The Yough”) from Connellsville to Dawson, PA is a very doable family float that everyone in my crew seems to enjoy. It has become for us a must-do summer activity in Fayette County, PA. - Ages– This is a fun activity for all ages in my crew, from my parents to my kids.  I have taken my son as young as 2 years 10 months. - Flotation Devices– We have taken paddleboards (SUPs), kayaks, and inner tubes. - Distance– Approximately 6 miles - Time– Approximately 3-4 hours for the float. But it takes us more like 6-7 hours once we factor in getting the gear ready, running the cars around, and breaking down the equipment. - Pace– Slow, easy, and relaxing. A few small rapids here and there. - Put in – Connellsville Yough River Park - Take Out– Dawson - Pace– A very nice slow pace, much like a moving lake. You can mostly float, but some paddling may be required depending on water levels. There are a few small rapids that make it interesting for the kids. - Great Allegheny Passage– The Great Allegheny Bike Trail runs river left along this float. So if there were an emergency, it shouldn’t be too much trouble to exit via the bike trail. - Cell Service- Additionally, thinking about an emergency, there is decent cell service along the float. - Length– It’s just the right amount of time for our crew, not too long, not too short. It’s about a 3-4 hour float and a 6-7 hour day when accounting for lunch, prepping gear, and running shuttle. - Halfway– There’s an island, just about halfway through where we like to break up our trip with lunch and some swimming. - Short Trip to Run Shuttle- When I use the term “run shuttle” I’m referring to how we place cars where they are needed. You will need at least two cars for this activity. But it’s a roughly 30 minute round trip drive to take a car to the take-out location and return with one car to the put-in.