These Stunning Views Are Worth the Trek
Crystal clear water rushes over the rugged mountain cliffs, and the mossy smell of the forest fills the air. You don’t have to travel to find these awe-inspiring views. Our local parks are home to waterfalls that show off Mother Nature’s handiwork at its finest. You’ll even find Pennsylvania’s tallest waterfall right here in NEPA.
We’ve rounded up scenic hikes for all ages and experience levels, from family-friendly strolls in the park to challenging treks through the forests and ravines. Hit the trail and discover NEPA’s natural wonders.
Bushkill, PA
Known as “The Niagara of Pennsylvania,” Bushkill Falls features eight waterfalls within a 300-acre park. They have four different hiking trails. The easiest trail is a 15-minute walk that will take you directly to the Main Falls, which towers at 100 feet tall. Or embrace the spirit of adventure on the red trail, a two-mile trek that passes all of the falls. A trail fee is required to enter.
Scranton, PA
If the urban jungle is more your style, try the Davis Trail at Nay Aug Park. This two-mile loop combines the beauty of nature with the convenience of the city. The main highlight is Roaring Brook, which carved out a deep gorge and formed a magnificent waterfall. Even the kids can tackle this easy, family-friendly hike.
Dingmans Ferry, PA
The Dingmans Creek Trail is a waterfall hotspot at the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. The trail offers an easy 0.4-mile hike to Dingmans Falls, the second highest waterfall in Pennsylvania at 130 feet tall. You’ll also spot Silverthread Falls, which is 80 feet high. The trail includes accessible boardwalk paths.
Montrose, PA
The Fall Brook Trail offers a moderate one-mile hike at Salt Springs State Park. Cross the bridge at the trailhead, and you’ll find yourself deep in the forests of the Endless Mountains. Follow the gorge, and you’ll spot three waterfalls cascading over the rocky ledges.
Benton, PA
The Falls Trail at Ricketts Glen boasts 21 waterfalls in one hike. Make sure to stop at the majestic Ganoga Falls, the tallest waterfall on the trail at 94 feet high. The entire trail system is 7.2 miles, but you can see most falls by completing the 3.2-mile upper portion.
Note: A portion of the trail is closed for repairs on the Glen Leigh side of the system, from F.L. Ricketts Falls to Ozone Falls. Despite the temporary closure, 20 waterfalls can still be viewed as normal. Please plan your route accordingly.
North Abington Twp., PA
This one might not be a “true” waterfall, but it’s captivating nonetheless. The dam at Lackawanna State Park spills over into the stream at the base of the Frost Hollow Trail. Head down to the bridge for some of the best views of the water and the rocky ravine.
White Haven, PA
The Hawk Falls Trail at Hickory Run State Park is a scenic 0.6-mile hike. The trail is lined with thick rhododendrons that are full of pink blooms in the early summer. You’ll follow the creek and arrive at Hawk Falls, which is about 25 feet tall. The trail is accessible from the parking area off PA-534.
Rockport, PA
Buttermilk Falls and Luke’s Falls lie right along the Lehigh Gorge Trail, a 26-mile rail trail that connects White Haven and Jim Thorpe. For the easiest access, park at the Rockport trailhead. Buttermilk Falls is located less than half a mile north of the parking area, while Luke’s Falls is about half a mile to the south.
Greentown, PA
The waterfalls may be “little,” but the views are still incredible along this short loop trail. The route follows Wallenpaupack Creek through the dense Pocono forests. You’ll spot several small falls along the way, with the largest measuring about 10 feet high.
Milford, PA
Raymondskill Falls is the tallest waterfall in Pennsylvania at over 150 feet high. The waterfall is located along the Raymondskill Creek Trail at the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. The trail is about 0.6 miles round-trip and features two viewing platforms.
Pine Grove, PA
This gentle, family-friendly walking trail leads you right to the base of the falls, which are about 15 feet tall. A footbridge crosses above the cascade, providing some of the best views. The entire hike is about 0.8 miles round-trip.
Article Updated from its Original Version Published on 5/15/2019.
