The Poconos is packed with scenic views, and if you’re looking to add a little adventure to your day, waterfalls are always a good place to start. From quick walks to longer hikes, there’s something here for everyone.
Below is a list of five places to see waterfalls across the region, along with helpful details on how to get there.
Bushkill Falls
Known as the “Niagara of Pennsylvania,” Bushkill Falls features multiple hiking trails leading to eight different waterfalls, according to its website. There are four color-coded trails, depending on how far you want to go.
If you’re looking for something quick, the Green Trail offers an easy 15-minute walk to a view of the Main Falls. If you’re up for more of a challenge, the Red Trail is about 2 miles long and takes you past all eight waterfalls.
- Good to know: Admission is required.
- Location: 138 Bushkill Falls Road, Bushkill
- Website: www.visitbushkillfalls.com
Three waterfalls at George W. Childs Park
George W. Childs Park is part of Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. Its 1.4-mile loop trail ” follows Dingmans Creek as it flows through a lush ravine, over three rushing waterfalls, and adjacent to the ruins of a mill and several structures built by the Civilian Conservation Corps,” according to the National Park Service.
The hike is considered easy to moderate, with about 144 feet of elevation change.
- Location: Enter from Park Road, just west of Silver Lake Road in Delaware Township, Pike County
- Website: nps.gov/dewa/planyourvisit/george-w-childs-park-trail.htm
Hawk Falls at Hickory Run State Park
Hawk Falls is a 25-foot waterfall located in Hickory Run State Park, and getting there is pretty straightforward. According to AllTrails, a trail begins right off Route 534, where there’s a roadside parking area.
From there, visitors follow a short trail lined with rhododendrons, which typically bloom in late spring, according to AllTrails. The path leads directly to the falls. The trail can get busy on weekends, so arriving early is recommended.
- Location: Route 534 east of Interstate 476 in Kidder Township, Carbon County
Two waterfalls at Lehigh Gorge State Park
If you’re up for a two-in-one waterfall stop, Lehigh Gorge State Park has you covered. According to AllTrails, both Buttermilk Falls and Luke’s Falls can be accessed from the Rockport Access Area.
Visitors can head about 0.3 miles upstream to reach Buttermilk Falls, while Luke’s falls is about 0.3 miles downstream of the parking area.
- Location: East end of Rockport Road, off South Lehigh Gorge Drive
Raymondskill Falls
Raymondskill Falls is the tallest waterfall in Pennsylvania, and getting there involves a short but steep walk, with 178 feet of elevation change. According to the National Park Service, visitors can follow a 0.3-mile trail with two viewing areas.
- Location: 917 Raymondskill Road, Milford
- Website: htps://www.nps.gov/dewa/planyourvisit/raymondskill-creek-trail.htm
