Here Are 17 Gorgeous Waterfalls Hidden in Pennsylvania
When you think waterfalls, you might think rain forests, parrots, and tigers. Perhaps you think of Tarzan. Anyway, we’re betting that you don’t think of your own backyard. Surprisingly, though, Pennsylvania has many tucked away waterfalls. Read on to discover 17 of the best waterfalls in Pennsylvania.
Tucked in Pinchot State Forest, Rattlesnake Falls cascades down 20 feet. 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. Stop by the official website of Pinchot State Forest.
To admire a gorgeous waterfall that drops over a dam, make your way to Newlin Grist Mill Park. The park provides a picture-perfect backdrop for exploring its trails and having a picnic.
Please note: Newlin Grist Mill Park often closes due to flooding. Check the website before heading over. Here's the official website of Newlin Grist Mill Park.
Delaware Water Gap National Park is home to several spectacular waterfalls, including Silverthread Falls. An extremely thin waterfall, the water tumbles down 80 feet and is particularly pretty after a heavy rainfall. Learn more on the official website of Dingman Falls Visitors Center.
Most people know Fallingwater as one of Frank Lloyd Wright's breathtaking creations. The home sits above a waterfall, making it a must visit if you love waterfalls. Tours of the home are available (advanced reservations are required), or you can explore the outside of the property. Plan your visit to Fallingwater.
Stairway Falls sits in the Delaware State Forest. Follow the 2.8-mile Stairway Trail to reach the cascade. The trail is rated moderate, so be prepared for some challenging terrain. Here's the official website for the Delaware State Forest.
Next time you're in New Hope, make it a point to check out the Aquetong Creek Dam. Stroll across the Aquetong Creek Bridge, which offers views of the carp swimming in the water. Start planning your visit to New Hope by visiting the Greater New Hope Chamber of Commerce.
Bushkill Falls is home to eight waterfalls - all reachable by a fairy easy two-mile hike. You'll have to pay an entrance fee into the privately-owned park, which also features numerous other activities, including gem stone mining and mini golf. Here's the official website of Bushkill Falls.
10) Ridley Creek State Park, Sycamore Mills, Dam 11
Carve out plenty of time to explore Ridley Creek State Park, which is home to dam 11, a sensational cascade. While you're at the park, embark on one of the hiking trails; go horseback riding, or enjoy some wildlife watching. Stop by the official website of Ridley Creek State Park.
Lace up those hiking shoes for your journey to Slateford Creek Falls, which features both lower and upper falls. At just over a half of a mile, the Slateford Creek Falls Trail leads to the lower falls. The upper falls are just .01-mile further. Find a map of the trail at All Trails.
12) Angel Falls, Falls Run in Loyalsock State Forest, Sullivan County
Angel Falls is certainly worth the three-mile trail you'll have to hike to get to it. Be prepared for somewhat of a challenge along the moderately rated hiking trail that really doesn't get too busy. Make sure you stay on the trail. Check out the trail map for Angel Falls Trail on All Trails.
13) Wild Creek Falls, Beltzville State Park, Carbon County
Beltzville State Park lays claim to Wild Creek Falls, a gorgeous waterfall that is sure to take your breath away. The popular state park offers a full menu of activities - hiking, picnicking, swimming in the summer, mountain biking, and boating. Here's the official website of Beltzville State Park.
14) Savantine Falls, Delaware State Forest, Pike County
Snuggled in the town of Paint, Paint Falls is well worth a visit, especially if you're already in the area. The waterfall stands at just 15 feet, and it offers a picture-perfect backdrop for photos.
You can reach Jonathan Run Falls in Ohiopyle State Park by following the Youghiogheny River Trail. The trail clocks in at just under four miles, but you'll be treated to jaw-dropping beauty along the way. Your best bet is to visit after a rainfall when the waterfall is at its strongest. Find a map of the trail at All Trails.
Cucumber Falls is an easy waterfall to reach. It's nestled in Ohiopyle State Park. Just look for the sign announcing you've arrived at the waterfall. Park in the small parking lot where you can see the top of the waterfall. To reach the base of Cucumber Falls, walk down a set of wooden stairs. You can even walk behind the popular waterfall. Check out the official website of Ohiopyle State Park.
Do you agree that these are 17 of the best waterfalls in Pennsylvania? What others would you add to the list? Let us know in the comments! For an epic road trip, hit the highway on the ultimate waterfalls road trip in Pennsylvania.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
Address: Spring Brook Township, PA 18444, USA
Address: Glen Mills, PA, USA
Address: Fall Creek, Pennsylvania 18360, USA
Address: Ontelaunee Creek, Albany Township, PA 19529, USA
Address: Silverthread Falls, Delaware Township, PA 18328, USA
Address: Fallingwater, 1491 Mill Run Rd, Mill Run, PA 15464, USA
Address: Pike County, PA, USA
Address: New Hope, PA 18938, USA
Address: Bushkill Falls, 138 Bushkill Falls Trail, Bushkill, PA 18324, USA
Address: Ridley Creek State Park, 1023 Sycamore Mills Rd, Media, PA 19063, USA
Address: National Park Dr, Bangor, PA 18013, USA
Address: Loyalsock State Forest, Fox Township, PA 18616, USA
Address: Beltzville State Park, 2950 Pohopoco Dr, Lehighton, PA 18235, USA
Address: 999 Potters Falls Rd, Kennerdell, PA 16374, USA
Address: Reservoir Dr, Philadelphia, PA 19119, USA
Address: Windber, PA 15963, USA
Address: Ohiopyle State Park, 124 Main St, Ohiopyle, PA 15470, USA
Address: Cucumber Falls, Stewart Township, PA 15431, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
Best Waterfalls in Pennsylvania
October 16, 2020
Beth Price-Williams
What are the best waterfall hikes in Pennsylvania?
Raymondskill Falls holds distinction as the tallest waterfall in the state. It tumbles down 150 feet, promising stunning views all year around. Follow the .03-mile Raymondskill Creek Trail, which leads straight to the majestic waterfall. Although the trail is short and sweet, be prepared for some rough terrain along the way. If you’re up for a challenge, go on one of the most epic waterfall hikes in Pennsylvania. Falls Trail in Ricketts Glen State Park spans just over seven miles and boasts 21 waterfalls, the tallest of which tumbles down 94 feet.
What are the most beautiful lakes in Pennsylvania?
Did you know that Pennsylvania lays claim to 2,500 lakes? Only 50 of those lakes, however, are natural lakes. All, whether natural or manmade, are worth a visit. One of the most scenic places in Pennsylvania, Raystown Lake stretches 8,000 incredible acres. It’s also considered one of the clearest lakes in PA. Stairway Lake, one of the many hidden gems in Pennsylvania, is well-worth a visit. To reach the crystal clear lake that features a classic wooden pier, follow the 2.9-mile Stairway Lake Trail in the Delaware State Forest Wild & Natural Areas.
What are the most picturesque hiking trails in Pennsylvania?
Beauty’s all around us in PA. We don’t have to travel far to find it, but when we’re up for an adventure, we just have to head out on one of the many picturesque hiking trails in Pennsylvania. The Golden Eagle Trail, for example, offers a hearty challenge in its nine miles. However, you’ll be treated to sensational views of Pine Creek Gorge along the way. Thousand Steps Trail also offers a pretty mighty challenge as you’ll have to literally climb 1,000 steps to the top of Jacks Mountain. The views from the top are well worth the time and the effort.
Pennsylvania In Your Inbox
Thank you! You will receive your first email soon.