Waterfall Hikes in NEPA: Stunning Views That are Worth the Trek
Northeastern PA is a haven for nature lovers, where wooded trails lead to some of the state’s most stunning waterfalls. From the thunderous cascades at Ricketts Glen State Park to the quiet charm of Buttermilk Falls in Bear Creek, the region offers a wide variety of waterfall hikes for every experience level. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful stroll or a more challenging adventure, these scenic paths provide the perfect excuse to get outside and soak in the beauty of the natural world.
There’s something uniquely calming about a waterfall hike in NEPA—the steady sound of rushing water, the cool mist in the air, the way light filters through the trees. Northeastern PA’s trails offer all that and more, with falls that roar, trickle and tumble through the forest. Whether you’re after a photo-worthy moment or simply some quiet time in nature, you’ll find a trail that fits the mood. So grab your gear and hit the path—there’s plenty of wonder waiting around the bend.

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 Green Trail is a 15-minute walk that will take you directly to the Main Falls, which towers at 100 feet tall. A trail fee is required to enter.
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Bear Creek, PA
Buttermilk Falls is a roadside waterfall located off of White Haven Road. This leisurely hike leads to falls about 35 feet high. The best time to visit is in the spring or after a heavy rainfall, when the water is roaring down the mountain.
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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.
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Dingmans Ferry, PA
The Dingmans Creek Trail is a waterfall hotspot within 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.
*Dingmans Falls access roads, visitor center and trail system will be closed for maintenance and repairs throughout the summer of 2025.*
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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.
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Benton, PA
The Falls Trail at Ricketts Glen State Park 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.
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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.
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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.
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Weatherly, PA
Buttermilk Falls and Luke’s Falls lie right along the Lehigh Gorge Trail inside Lehigh Gorge State Park, a 26-mile section of the D&L 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.
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Greentown, PA
The waterfalls may be “little,” but the views are still incredible along this short loop trail at Promised Land State Park. 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.
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Factoryville, PA
Find breathtaking views of a stunning waterfall flowing amongst the foliage at Little Rocky Glen Preserve! This short hike brings a killer view. Enjoy a peaceful stroll along this stunning nature getaway.
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Stroudsburg, PA
Marshalls Falls Park in Stroudsburg provides an easy, walkable hike with a gorgeous view! Tucked in-between two rock formations, a picturesque waterfall gushes through for the perfect photo-op.
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Milford, PA
Raymondskill Falls is the tallest waterfall in Pennsylvania at over 150 feet high. The waterfall is located along the Raymondskill Creek Trail within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. The trail is about 0.6 miles round-trip and features two viewing platforms.
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Shohola, PA
At less than a mile, the Shohola Falls Trail has a huge pay off! These roaring waters are an incredible example of Pennsylvania’s effortless beauty. Tucked away Shohola Falls is the perfect nature retreat.
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Pine Grove, PA
This gentle, family-friendly walking trail at Sweet Arrow Lake County Park 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.
Learn MoreArticle Updated from its Original Version Published on 5/15/2019.

