The Historic Gristmill

The 19th century gristmill is the centerpiece of McConnells Mill State Park. The historic gristmill is open:

Memorial Day through late September
Wednesdays through Sundays
10:30 A.M. - 3:30 P.M.

Park at the Kildoo Picnic Area and hike down the stone stairs to the historic gristmill.

Limited parking for people with disabilities is be available beside the gristmill.

Interpretive tours of the historic mill, given by staff or volunteer docents, are available at 1:00 P.M. and 2:00 P.M.

Group tours may be scheduled by calling the Moraine Park office at 724-368-8811.

Trail of Geology

The natural character of McConnells Mill State Park, the scenic gorge, waterfalls, rugged hiking trails, and whitewater creek, are all directly caused by the geology of the area.

The bedrock formed more than 300 million years ago as layers of sand, mud, and peat built up in what was a coastal area.

After becoming rock, these different layers were lifted to the surface in several mountain-building events.

The different strengths of these rocks cause them to erode differently, helping to make the varied landscape of the park.

The gorge and the dramatic topography of the park were created by glaciers during the past two million years.

To learn more about the geology of the park, download or pick up a copy of the Trail of Geology - Moraine and McConnells Mill State Parks Guide (PDF) at the park office.

This driving tour brochure corresponds to numbered posts throughout the park and surrounding area.