You just can't beat a good, old-fashioned road trip. Those of us who live in Pennsylvania know how many amazing spots there are to visit, making it easy to satisfy our wanderlust. This road trip to some of the best caves and waterfalls in Pennsylvania promises a whole lot of natural beauty - and will answer that age-old question: Where are there waterfalls near me?
You can customize the directions to add or delete stops or use the itinerary as inspiration to create your own road trip. Check out your custom map of caves and waterfalls in Pennsylvania on Google Maps. Before you set off on any road trip, call ahead to make sure destinations are open and to check on the hours, so you don't make any wasted trips. Another helpful tip: be sure to use our ultimate road trip packing list to make trip preparation a breeze!
1. Ohiopyle Falls – Ohiopyle
Let's start our road trip at Ohiopyle Falls in Ohiopyle State Park. One of the best things about Ohiopyle Falls, besides the beauty, is that it's easy to reach. You can view it from several outdoor viewing platforms, or stop by the visitor center, where you'll find a huge window that overlooks the falls. If you want to start a new Christmas tradition, stop by the falls on Christmas Eve, when they're illuminated by shimmering lights. Learn more about Ohiopyle Falls in Pennsylvania on the official website of Ohiopyle State Park.
2. Cucumber Falls – Ohiopyle
Cucumber Falls tumbles less than a mile from Ohiopyle Falls, so you won't have to drive far to get here. Follow the signs for Cucumber Falls, and pull into the small parking lot. From the parking lot, you have an overhead view of the cascading waterfall. If you want to see it closer, just walk down the stairs. You can even walk behind the waterfall for really unique views if you want.
3. Penn’s Cave & Wildlife Park – Centre Hall
Our next stop takes us to Penn's Cave & Wildlife Park. Penn's Cave is the only all-water cave in the United States, making it a one-of-a-kind adventure. You'll have to walk down some stairs for your tour of this magnificent cave. Unfortunately, the tour is not ADA-accessible. After you've returned above ground, you have an entire wildlife park to explore, if you're up for it. You can even go gem mining or escape the Miners Maze. Find more information on the official website of
4. Indian Echo Caverns – Hummelstown
Bundle up - or at least bring a sweater or a jacket - for your tour through Indian Echo Caverns, which maintains a year-round temperature of 52 degrees Fahrenheit. After taking a tour of the caverns, you'll find more fun activities on-site that include gem mining and meeting animals at the petting zoo. There are also picnic tables if you want to have a picnic while the little ones play on the playground. Head over to the official website of Indian Echo Caverns for more information.
5. Rattlesnake Falls – Lewisburg
We'll head to Gifford Pinchot National Forest and Rattlesnake Falls next. Follow the one-mile, out-and-back Rattlesnake Falls Trail, one of the best waterfall hikes in Pennsylvania, that leads straight to the cascade. If you're up for more exploration, check out some more of the park, which is popular for hiking, boating, and camping. Learn more on the official website of Gifford Pinchot National Forest.
6. Laurel Caverns – Farmington
Laurel Caverns, the deepest cave in Pennsylvania, is only open during the summer season, due to bats that hibernate during the winter. However, if you're visiting during the summer months, you'll have the opportunity to take a tour of the cave. If you're a daredevil, try the caving or the spelunking. Visit the official website of Laurel Caverns.
7. Fallingwater – Mill Run
Our final stop brings us to Fallingwater, a home built around a waterfall. You probably already know the home as one of Frank Lloyd Wright's masterpieces. Plan ahead for your visit, because you'll need to make reservations for a tour. Several types are offered. You can also explore the trails outside of the home. Stop by the official website of Fallingwater for more information, including to book a tour.
What are your favorite waterfalls and caves in Pennsylvania? Let us know in the comments! If you're wondering, "are there any waterfalls near me," wonder no more. Here are 10 waterfall hikes in Pennsylvania to add to your to-do list.
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