Philadelphia, PA - If you're new to hiking or just seeking an exciting place to discover, Pennsylvania has plenty of waterfalls worth visiting. Here are nine best to experience while in the state: including, Raymondskill Falls, situated within Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, is Pennsylvania's tallest waterfall at 178 feet in height.
1. Raymondskill Falls
Raymondskill Falls is one of Pennsylvania's most stunning waterfalls in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. At only 178 feet high, this triple-tiered cascade falls just a bit taller than Niagara Falls' height of 165 feet. Climb the short hike to the top of the falls and be amazed by its power and beauty! Perfect for bringing the whole family, this waterfall is also easily accessible.
2. Dingmans Falls
Dingmans Falls is the second tallest waterfall in Pennsylvania and a popular tourist attraction at Delaware Water Gap. To reach its base, hikers take you on an accessible boardwalk trail that winds through hemlock ravines before leading them directly to Dingmans Falls. Just a tenth of a mile beyond the boardwalk, you can hike up a series of stairs for an elevated view of the falls. This section, Upper Dingmans Creek Trail, is classified as moderately tricky but rewards with stunning vistas.
3. Shohola Falls
Shohola Marsh Reservoir empties into Shohola Creek, creating stunning waterfalls with cascading cascades, deep holes, and sheer ledges. This area is ideal for hiking and admiring wildlife while taking a refreshing dip. A bald eagle nests in a tree along the shore of Shohola Lake. When this body of water was created, it left dead trees behind, which provided nesting sites for eagles and many other cavity-nesting birds. Birds such as the wood duck, hooded merganser, eastern screech-owl, northern flicker, and hairy and downy woodpeckers use fallen trees for nesting herons and waterfowl.
4. Fall Brook Falls
Fall Brook Falls is an impressive two-tier waterfall east of Blossburg in Tioga State Forest in Pennsylvania. The upper cascading waterfall features a 10-foot slide, and the lower cascading cascades continue on their course until they meet at their summit. This waterfall makes for a refreshing dip after your hike in the summertime. But be prepared for an extensive and challenging trek to reach it! This waterfall may not be as well-known as some of Pennsylvania's other waterfalls on this list, but it's worth visiting if you're close by. Wild brook trout - native to this region - can be spotted from its banks.
5. Buttermilk Falls
A waterfall is formed when water wears away an easily erodible layer of rock, then meets a resistant one. In this instance, the sandstone-based resistant layer erodes faster than the shale-based erodible one, creating what we know as a waterfall. Buttermilk Falls Natural Area is an undiscovered gem tucked away from highways and cities. A short hike from the parking lot takes you to this stunning waterfall.
6. Dry Run Falls
Dry Run Falls, located in Sullivan County, Pennsylvania, is one of Pennsylvania's most stunning waterfalls. It features two streams cascading down, and its unique rocks give it a beautiful appearance. Visitors to this waterfall have two options: parking near the lot or taking a short trail for closer views of the falls. There's also a picnic area right by the parking lot where you can grab snacks or lunch while admiring this stunning sight.
7. Angel Falls
Angel Falls is one of Pennsylvania's most stunning waterfalls in Loyalsock State Forest. Famed for its 70-foot drop, this cascading cascade can be admired from miles away. Plan your visit during spring or after heavy rainfall for optimal viewing of this waterfall. Angel Falls is a popular attraction, and nearby Gibson Falls is only steps away. This breathtaking waterfall cascades over a rock face into an inviting pool below.
8. Freedom Falls
Enjoy an exhilarating day in nature at Freedom Falls. This majestic waterfall cuts into Shall Run Tributary in western Pennsylvania and can be easily reached via trail. The hike to the falls requires some effort, but it's well worth it. On each tier, you can enjoy breathtaking views of this 20-foot waterfall.
9. Ricketts Glen Falls
Ricketts Glen Falls in Benton is a must-see hiking trail that will delight visitors of all ages. With 26 miles of hiking trails and over 20 waterfalls to discover, this is one of the best places in Pennsylvania for anyone wanting to get outdoors and enjoy nature.
