Surprisingly, though, Pennsylvania has many tucked away waterfalls. Is that true? Kellys Run Nature Preserve contains a loop trail near the Susquehanna River. which waterfaII do you recommend for swimming and coId pIunging? In We got there later than planned due to traffic but figured it was still early enough at 3pm since the website said they were open until 5. The trails of Buttermilk Fallsis located along the Lehigh Gorge Trail, just north of the Rockport Access Area. Very scenic. Visitors can also enjoy scenic views of the surrounding countryside and the Susquehanna River. Nevertheless, if you are looking for a great waterfall hike, this is one not to miss. You will walk along a stream through a beautiful forest then towards the end enter some rocky areas. You can walk through parts of the old canal system as well as read about the history of the canal. Cucumber Falls, Ohiopyle Simply park your car in the parking area of Ohiopyle State Park, near Kentuck Road, where you will get a spectacular overhead view of Cucumber Falls from the observation deck. Let us know in the comments! I'm 50 and not in the best shape and had no issues breathing w the mask on. Overall my friend and I had a nice trip at Bushkill. This park actually was a local amusement park for many years, and a few remnants of this history can still be seen, including a support for the park's rollercoaster just downstream of the waterfall. Do you agree that these are 17 of the best waterfalls in Pennsylvania? During COVID19, you'll need a mask, and even though its outdoors, it can be crowded enough that you should keep the mask on while you are there. To admire a gorgeous waterfall that drops over a dam, make your way to Newlin Grist Mill Park. Privacy Policy. Lancaster, PA Active Life Hiking Trails With Waterfalls Best hiking trails with waterfalls near me in Lancaster, Pennsylvania Sort:Recommended Online Booking Good for Kids 1. This waterfall cant be seen from inside your car, but it can be easily seen from above by peering over the edge of the covered bridge. It is a cool spot on a hot day and beautiful anytime of the year. There is small pull-off adjacent to the waterfall for those that want to enjoy it for more than a few seconds or want to step out and take a closer look. This trail runs along the Susquehanna River and is perfect for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. You'll pass a porta potty on the way. Not dangerous at all, just wear sturdy hiking shoes. Visitors should also be aware that some of the hiking trails to these waterfalls can be difficult, so it is important to be prepared with proper footwear and to be aware of any safety concerns. To see most of the waterfalls there is a 3.2 mile loop can be taken by going on Highland Trail and the Glen Leigh and Ganoga Glen sides of the trail. Cucumber Falls at Ohiopyle State Park in Fayette County is quite possibly the most photogenic (and photographed) waterfall in all of western Pennsylvania. So did the tour include the viewing of the hydroelectric generators, or was it only an external tour? According to AllTrails.com, the longest waterfall trail in Pennsylvania is Tuscarora Trail. This road runs between the Quehanna Highway and Route 120, making it a popular and incredibly scenic thoroughfare in this isolated part of the state. How To Get There: Meadow Run Trail is accessible near the ranger station, at the waterslides on SR 2011 and at Cucumber Falls on SR 2019. Got a bit confusing near the end. Angel Falls, which can be found a short distance off of the Loyalsock Trail, is 70 feet tall and is quite impressive when it is flowing well. Well. For those like me who haven't been to the gym since CV started, there are plenty of stairs on the yellow trail. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. Copyright 2013-2023 Uncovering Media, LLC - All Rights Reserved, wrote a book featuring nearly 200 of my favorites, second Big Run Falls within State Game Lands 13, Packsaddle Covered Bridge in Somerset County. East Park Falls is actually a series of two small waterfalls in Connellsville, PAs East Park. While its the shortest covered bridge in Somerset County, its definitely one of the, if not the, most scenic. This 12-15 foot waterfall is located about 100 feet from the road and features one large drop and a second smaller drop a short distance downstream. We scoffed at the assertion that a particular 3.5 mile trail would take 3 hours. Nestled in the Pocono Mountains, the Falls - known as the Niagara of Pennsylvania -are a favorite of hikers, fishermen, birdwatchers and all those who treasure the nature's beauty. The next highest ascent for waterfall trails is Highlands Trail: Riegelsville to New York Border with 5,062 m of elevation gain. If you do get out, use caution as this is a fairly narrow dirt road. McElhattan Falls Learn more on the official website of, Most people know Fallingwater as one of Frank Lloyd Wright's breathtaking creations. (Oh - you need to use the bathroom as well as get water before you go through on the trails, because there's neither on the trails and there's no re-entry either.) Lehigh Gorge State Park, the 26 miles of the Lehigh Gorge Trail offers easy hiking along the scenic Lehigh River with several waterfalls along the way. Navigate with the map below to find waterfalls across the state. There are few waterfalls in PA that are more isolated than Round Island Run Falls in Clinton County's Sproul State Forest. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. This waterfall, which is located just below Waters Meet, is large and nearly always looks impressive. Falling Spring Waterfall is a splendid waterfall located in Falling Spring Park. This is a dangerous and difficult hike requiring scrambling, but it has great views of the falls. For shorter, day hikes use the five connecting loops blazed in white. If you want to go on to Bridal Veil Falls, be smarter than we were: wear hiking boots, long pants, a backpack to keep your hands free, and a walking stick. The home sits above a waterfall, making it a must visit if you love waterfalls. Make sure you stop off at RD's American Grill in Quarryville just a few miles down the road for a delicious, well-priced meal. Default; Distance; Rating; Name (A - Z) Ad AQUA DOC Lake & Pond Management. The waterfall actually looks almost like two different waterfalls due to the shape of the rocks, which adds some visual interest to the waterfall. Keystone State. In fact, if you are driving from Route 154 to Worlds End Vista, youll pass within a couple of hundred yards of this beautiful waterfall. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, hiking, and picnicking, as well as camping in one of the parks many campsites. The Best Waterfalls in the Poconos Road Trip will take you on a round-trip tour of some of the best waterfalls in eastern Pennsylvania. When I went in the summer, the parking lot was spacious and there were places to picnic. Round Island Run Falls may be one of the most remote waterfalls in Pennsylvania. Big Run Falls in Sullivan County (not to be confused with the Big Run Falls listed above) is located within State Game Lands 13, only a short drive from the popular waterfall mecca of Ricketts Glen State Park. This roadside waterfall is set in a narrow gorge adjacent to Dry Run Road a short distance from Worlds End State Park. Visited many waterfalls in the Pocono's, Bushkill Falls is the only one to charge. You inspire me to explore more!!!! While they arent large, the chance to see two waterfalls right next to each other is a rare treat. It's a long drive, down a windy road to get to the river, but once you're there the staff is knowlegable and the views are amazing. The Mill at Manor Falls is the perfect venue for your wedding, the beautiful day you have always imagined. Buttermilk Falls in Luzerne County (not to be confused with the dozen other Buttermilk Falls in PA) is located near Bear Creek Village and is part of the Bear Creek Preserve. We somehow didn't see any more yellow markers and wound up by Lover's Nook somehow, which has a bench and where we took a snack break. Rusty Glessner is a professional photographer, lifelong Pennsylvanian, and creator of the PA Bucket List travel blog. Recommend going early in the day during the week, was crowded on the weekend. What are the best waterfall hikes in Pennsylvania? When you exit the trails, there are refreshments you can buy. Oil Creek State Park is home to four beautiful waterfalls. Jim Cheney is the creator of UncoveringPA.com. Caledonia Falls is a small roadside waterfall in Franklin County, PAs Caledonia State Park. But what if you cant hike or simply dont want to? Only 50 of those lakes, however, are natural lakes. #10 - Wissahickon Creek Gorge Loop via Forbidden Drive. Read on to discover 17 of the best waterfalls in Pennsylvania. There are few waterfalls in PA that are more isolated than Round Island Run Falls in Clinton Countys Sproul State Forest. The park is popular for hiking, fishing, and picnicking, and visitors can also take in the views from the observation deck at the top of Chickies Rock. The falls are also a popular spot for photographers and artists, who come to capture the phenomenal views and sounds of the falling water. While there is a pull-off near the waterfall for those wanting to have a closer look, you can also see this waterfall from your car. enough for them to do for 2-3 hours? You arent allowed to swim at any of them, but some of them you could probably put your feet in the water. 37. The waterfall is surrounded by an amazing forest and it is a great spot for swimming and picnicking. A post shared by Steve Michalec (@steve_getsoffsofa). The Ultimate Pennsylvania Waterfalls Guide is the finest guide to Pennsylvania waterfallsyoull find anywhere on the web! Several viewing platforms are available for visitors at the end of a short but steep trail including one near the crest of the waterfall and one in the middle. Pequea Creek Waterfall is a delightfulwaterfall located in Pequea Creek Park. A Trail Full Of Cascade Stream Views In State Game Lands Will Lead You To A Waterfall Paradise In Pennsylvania, The Frozen Waterfalls At Ohiopyle State Park In Pennsylvania Are A Must-See This Winter, Pigeon Run Falls Trail In Pennsylvania Is An Easy And Beautiful Hike That Leads To A Breathtaking Waterfall, A Trip To Paupack Falls When Pennsylvania Has Frozen Over Is Positively Surreal, Shohola Falls Trail Might Be One Of The Most Beautiful Short-And-Sweet Hikes To Take In Pennsylvania, Pennsylvanias Niagara Falls Is Too Beautiful For Words, The Ultimate Western Pennsylvania Waterfall Road Trip Is Here And Its A Beautiful Adventure, Youll Find Waterfalls Around Every Bend At Bushkill Falls In Pennsylvania, ultimate waterfalls road trip in Pennsylvania, picturesque hiking trails in Pennsylvania. 11. Nice trails, fairly clean with some litter. What a great trip, if a bit more physical. I have been going to Kelly's Run and the Pinnical Overlook for the past couple of months now and had a blast each time. While you have to exit your car to see the waterfall from here, it only sits about 20 feet from this parking area. The semi-loop through both Ganoga Glen and Glen Leigh visits 21 named waterfalls, the highest being 94' Ganoga Falls. Once in line, we were told we could buy tickets but need to vacate the property by 4pm, which would not give us time to see everything without rushing. Wet, leat-covered rocks and boulders along a swift creek and upwards made for a rewarding and challenging hike. The waterfall is enveloped by a rich forest and it is a perfect place to swim and take a picnic. It is definitely worth a visit, despite the price. I said that if Lover's Nook was to the right, then the yellow trail to the exit was to the left. Make sure you stay on the trail. The waterfall is about 3 minutes in on the trail. All the best. Check out Dingmans Falls in the Delaware Water Gap, Adams Falls in Ricketts Glen State Park, and Buttermilk Falls in Indiana County. This waterfall tends to be a trickle during times of low water, so definitely visit when water levels are high. Conestoga Trail is a popular hiking and biking trail that winds through the rolling hills and pretty countryside of the area. This time around the water level was so low that most of the waterfalls were unimpressive due to lack of rain in the area (according to the locals). This park is situated in Lancaster County and features a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, and picnicking. Bushkill Falls is located in the Poconos and is the only waterfall in PA that you have to pay an admission charge to see. I haven't been to many parks in PA so don't really have anything to compare them too. Check out Indian Steps Museum in the York side and Pequea area on the Lancaster side of the river. Top Waterfalls in Lancaster County, PA Falls Perpendicular or very steep fall of water in the course of a stream. Aquatic features are the perfect way to elevate your property. Did an out and back since the Glen side was closed. Please check with the park page or park staff for additional information: https://www.dcnr.pa.gov/StateParks/FindAPark/LehighGorgeStatePark/Pages/default.aspx 10. Same old place for the last 60 yearsgreat to fish, dangerous if you don't know what can happen below a DAM ! Here's the official website for the, Next time you're in New Hope, make it a point to check out the Aquetong Creek Dam. This trail is estimated to be 375.6 km long. Thank you, thank you! It can be seen from within the car, though a bit of peering over the edge is needed to see more than the top half of the falls. Not sure if the food shack was closed or we just missed it. Freedom Falls can be found deep in the woodland of Venango County but is fairly easy to reach if you know where to look. 2023 Cain Brands, LLC. Related terms: cascade, cataract, waterfall Water We found one result in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. The trails are rated depending on the intensity and amount of time it takes. It will lead you down to the side of the pond that has a small dock, a bench, a nice little picnic area. You can walk the trails at your own pace. Be careful of currents when the dam empties. At first, I was skeptical about paying what I thought was a high price for a walk in the woods, but after doing this, Im convinced that it was well worth the price! The entire area, in fact, is brimming with small waterfalls, flowing brooks, and slides. However, there are a few in Ithaca, New York that are worth checking out. Love Pennsylvania? Also located in Fayette County, Fallingwater may be the most famous private residence in Pennsylvania built on top of a waterfall. What a great trip! Shortly after the falls, the hiking gets pretty strenuous, a lot of up hill to get to a crest then down hill then back up, etc. Today, visitors can hike the short trail to the waterfall and even go behind the waterfall thanks to infrastructure built a few years ago. Miners Run Falls is a series of 6 unnamed waterfalls along Miners Run in Lycoming County. Speaking of famous waterfall hikes, without a doubt THE most famous waterfall hike in Pennsylvania is the Falls Trail at Ricketts Glen in Luzerne County. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. At roughly 150 feet tall, the three-tiered Raymondskill Falls is considered the tallest waterfall in Pennsylvania. 24 of the Best Short Waterfall Hikes in PA, The Best Waterfalls in the Poconos Road Trip, The Best Waterfalls Near Pittsburgh Road Trip, The Ultimate Pennsylvania Waterfalls Guide, Exploring the High Street Emporium in Ebensburg, Exploring the Curtis Publishing Building in Philadelphia, The 19 Best Hiking Trails Near State College, Exploring the American Philatelic Center in Bellefonte. The paths to Bushkills Falls is easy, a lot of wood paths - pay attention because the steps are sporadic and blend into the flat portion of the path. With 21 waterfalls it never seems to fail so magical! A short hike, about midway to the dam, takes you up along a cascade of water and boulders. It's the perfect spot to start your visit at the forest before going on a hike, having a picnic, or doing a bit of kayaking. From Lancaster County cross the Norman Wood Bridge. Such beauty here in NEPA. For an epic road trip, hit the highway on the ultimate waterfalls road trip in Pennsylvania. Leonard HarrisonStateParkhasa series of waterfalls a long Little Fourmile Run. Sort:Default. Conewago Falls in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania was a historic river barrier 12 miles (19 km) below and south of Harrisburg [1] at a wide spot (8,000 feet (2,400 m) [2] ), where the river drops 19 feet (5.8 m) in 14 mile (0.40 km) along the lower Susquehanna River along either side of Three Mile Island. Thanks. Harrison Wright Falls at Ricketts Glen State Park. Are there specific days and times they flood this area or is it random? Ohiopyle Falls spans the entire width of the Youghiogheny River and is roughly 20 feet tall, though it can appear shorter during times of high water. It looks like they recently added a large additional lot. This is a great place to walk around and see some waterfalls and other natural beauty in the Pocono mountains. There is a restroom close by and it starts near the park office. Paiva Walkways + Arouca Suspension Bridge - All-Inclusive! We were staying in the area and decided to check it out, walked the Yellow and Red trails in about an hour. Unfortunately, swimming isnt allowed at any of the waterfalls in PA. Based in the state capital of Harrisburg, Jim frequently travels around Pennsylvania and has visited, written about, and photographed all 67 counties in the state. Tucquan Glen Nature Preserve 6 Hiking We are planning to go to this place around July 14. They have quite an extensive trail/walkway system which makes it easy to get around. Stroll across the Aquetong Creek Bridge, which offers views of the carp swimming in the water. Nestled in the Pocono Mountains, the Falls known as the Niagara of Pennsylvania are a favorite of hikers, fishermen, birdwatchers and all those who treasure the natures beauty. It is called the "Niagara of PA", which is quite a stretch, but it is very impressive. Avoid flip flops. The sound of the falling water is a constant source of peaceful background noise, making the area a great place for picnicking, bird-watching, and relaxing. Kilgore Falls 39 "Could have been 5 if the hiking trail was better kept. This 30-foot waterfall drops straight off a rockface and crashes into a shallow pool at its base. Opening for the 2020 season on April 2, 2020. You're awesome for doing it! Hickory Run State Park. 95% of travelers recommend this experience. People also searched for these in Lancaster: See more hiking trails with waterfalls in Lancaster. The trail head is past Lock No 12. Just dont venture too far away as parking isnt allowed here. Packsaddle Falls is located along Brush Creek and is approximately 10-12 feet in height. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. He has also traveled to more than 30 different countries around the world. This waterfall is roughly 20 feet tall and can be seen from a variety of spots. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Even better, because of the large overhang that the water drops off of, its easy to go behind the veil of this waterfall. Unfortunately, to see six of those, you have to take a difficult off-trail hike to see. That makes it a great spot for anyone to visit. Parking areas are available at various access points. This roadside waterfall is about 15 feet tall. The Hickory Run State Park has a National Natural Landmark in the boulder field and there are some Geocaches in the park. The waterfall is a great spot for hikes and picnics. The route can be confusing so make sure to bring the app or downloaded map. The Niagara of Pennsylvania it is not, lol. The lowest parts of the trail are along a series of waterfalls. The trail blazes are sky blue and easy to follow. Great Gorge Trail begins at Cucumber Picnic area and crosses several bridges and roads, following Cucumber Run you will arrive at Cucumber Falls, a large cascading waterfall. From Lancaster County cross the Norman Wood Bridge into York County and take first right onto River Road. There are also several waterfalls further upstream if you dont mind a bit of off-trail hiking. Located in the McIntyre Wild Area, the remaining 5 waterfalls become more difficult to reach as you hike upstream. Order it now on Bookshop.org or Amazon. It is, after all, the tallest waterfall in Pennsylvania, tumbling down 150 feet. The attractions like fishing and mini golf were closed, as was the fudge kitchen and ice cream parlor. Ive read where the trails can be really crowded. Decent spot at the top with bathrooms and a pavilion to eat lunch before heading back. This waterfall is actually the outflow of Hinkston Run Reservoir near Johnstown and was created in 1904. The views from the top are well worth the time and the effort. Be prepared for somewhat of a challenge along the moderately rated hiking trail that really doesn't get too busy. Of these many waterfalls in the state game lands, it is one of the easiest to reach. Views of the waterfall can be had from the parking lot or from the opposite bank, though you do have the cross a busy bridge to get to the closer viewing area. Over thousandsof years, the stream carved the small grotto from solid rock, forming a picturesque waterfall spilling over the rim of the ravine at Overall we had a great time and I would recommend checking this place out if you want to see some nice falls and enjoy nature. The view of the main falls is pretty special. After a lot of thought and consideration, Ive done just that. We weren't the only ones "lost," as another family came up to us and asked if we had come from the beginning. Dingmans Falls is located in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, Dingmans Ferry, PA 18328. How To Get There: Hells Hollow Falls located along Hells Hollow trail accessible via the Hells Hollow parking lot. Somewhat confusingly, there is a second Big Run Falls within State Game Lands 13, though that one is quite difficult to reach. I think its prettier and safer hiking up the water fall. The Step Fountain, built in 1916, is located in the English Park and is one of 10 water features at the Morris Arboretum of the University of Philadelphia. Morris Arboretum Step Fountain. The Yellow, Blue, and Red trails take you all the way to the bottom, maybe 150 feet down, and then you will work your way up. Follow the 2.8-mile Stairway Trail to reach the cascade. We found some spots where no one was around as we were hiking to take a quick mask break. The area around Lancaster is home to several waterfalls that are popular with visitors and locals alike. He has also traveled to more than 30 different countries around the world. however around noon it got very busy and parking was more challenging to find. This waterfall is located on land that was once owned by the grandfather of TVs Mister Rogers. There are certainly other parks and hiking places where you can hike for free instead of paying a fee as you do here, but all in all, if you like hiking or want to try it out, this is a good place to go. Hinkston Run Falls is roughly 60 feet tall and drops into a large pool at the base of the falls. I am guessing the trail got pretty full as well. Thats because youll find a total of seven incredible waterfalls here within a short distance. You will receive your first email soon. Other tips, weekends can be crowded, you can buy your tickets online ahead of time and save yourself some time when you arrive. The Best Waterfalls Near Pittsburgh Road Trip will take you on a round-trip tour of some of the finest waterfalls in western PA. Chickies Rock County Park is located in the town of Marietta, and it is home to a lovely waterfall set in a pretty forest. Here's the official website of, Carve out plenty of time to explore Ridley Creek State Park, which is home to dam 11, a sensational cascade. This 7,000-acre wildlife management area can be found in Lancaster County and is home to a variety of wildlife, including waterfowl, deer, and turkey. A beautiful walk along a stream in a rhodedendron forest Because of the style of waterfall, this spot looks great in almost any water conditions. Explore the most popular waterfall trails in Pennsylvania with hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers and nature lovers like you. Feel free tocontact us if youve got something interesting to share. Lancaster. In fact, its probably no more than five feet tall. For the price of $18 pp I thought was a little high since most State Parks only charge a small fee to enter but I can see that these trails must need a lot of maintenance and upkeep and it is privately owned. Sullivan Falls has carved a deep hollow into the cliffs and plummets about 30-35 feet into a deep pool at the bottom of the waterfall. However, if you love PA waterfalls, Round Island Run Falls is worth seeking out. While in the park, if you can handle about 100 feet of uneven terrain, I highly recommend also stopping at Cucumber Falls. At this spot, Wykoff Run drops amidst boulders into a large pool that is popular with area fishermen.