Top 6 Waterfalls in the Poconos for Your Next Adventure
The forested peaks and lush valleys of the Poconos give rise to a majestic natural phenomenon: waterfalls. Framed by vibrant vegetation and surrounded by panoramic views, the waterfalls in the Poconos are uniquely spectacular.
While the waterfalls offer natural beauty and exciting hikes, there is so much more to do during your stay in the Poconos! Request our complimentary Vacation Guide to find out what other experiences you might be missing! It’s filled with our top recommendations for everything the Poconos has to offer, from dining to outdoor recreation.
Your Guide to the Best Waterfalls in the Poconos
Some of the hikes on this list are challenging and steep as they climb high altitudes, while others are easier and on well-maintained trails. Remember to keep hike difficulty in mind before you go chasing waterfalls. Whichever you choose to visit, each hike will give you fantastic vantage points for the best waterfalls in the Poconos.
Bushkill Falls
Bushkill Falls is a privately owned park that offers more than the usual waterfall hike. The eight falls have earned the moniker “The Niagara of Pennsylvania,” with the main cascade falling 100 feet. In all, there are four trails of varying difficulty that lead to overlooks of the breathtaking falls. The longer hikes reward you with views of all the picturesque waterfalls.
Since there is so much to do here, be sure to plan to spend at least a half–day when you visit. Once you’ve had your fill of the falls, you can play a round of miniature golf, mine for gemstones, and observe the various historical exhibits. If you get hungry, there’s a sweets shop on–site along with a concession stand with basics like pizza and burgers. If you’d like a souvenir, stop by the gift shop.
Falls Trail
This winding trail in Ricketts Glen State Park and is one of the most challenging and rewarding hikes on the list. Along the way, you’ll get to see 21 beautiful Pennsylvania waterfalls! The full length of the Falls Trail loop is 7.2 miles and at times steep and rocky. Make sure you’re prepared for a hike of that length and that you have adequate footwear.
Hawk Falls
The Hawk Falls Trail is a moderate 0.6-mile trail within the Hickory Run State Park, home of Boulder Field. You’ll cross the creek on a rustic footbridge and end with views of the 25-foot Hawk Falls. Keep an eye out while you walk. The old trail used to be a road, and hikers sometimes find old pieces of wagons, like nails and even horseshoes! This trail is also an access point for fishing in Mud Run.
Waterfalls in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
You can’t talk about hiking in the Poconos without mentioning the Delaware Water Gap. The national recreation area straddles both Pennsylvania and New Jersey and has countless waterfalls and trails. The three waterfalls below are some of the most well-known in the area and for good reason.
Buttermilk Falls
Buttermilk Falls is on the New Jersey side of the Delaware Water Gap and is one of the tallest in the state. Follow the 1.4-mile Buttermilk Falls Trail to the top of these falls and enjoy the sound of the rushing water as you stand in the cool shade of the lush forest. Although this trail isn’t very long, it’s a steep climb up two sets of stairs.
If you really want to maximize the challenge, you can continue the hike up to the Appalachian National Scenic Trail for panoramic views of the valley below, which connects to the Crater Lake and Hemlock Pond trails.
Tumbling Waters Falls
Named Pennsylvania’s best hike by Outside Magazine in 2019, the Tumbling Waters Trail is at the Pocono Environmental Education Center. The three–mile hike is moderate and boasts a two-tiered waterfall, amazing views of the Delaware River Valley, and chances to see wildlife and beautiful vegetation. The education center also offers miles of hiking trails and other activities for kids.
Raymondskill Creek Trail
The Raymondskill Creek Trail takes you to viewpoints of the tallest waterfall in Pennsylvania. Trees frame the three-tiered Raymondskill Falls which flow down rocky outcrops. The entire length of the falls is only a few feet shorter than Niagara Falls! The trail itself is a mere 0.3 miles long, making the beautiful waterfall accessible to most people. Once at the falls, you’ll have a choice of an upper or a lower viewpoint.
Unwind at Mountaintop Lodge
Let the tranquility instilled by the waterfalls continue by staying at Mountaintop Lodge at Lake Naomi. We’re located near just about every stunning view in the Poconos! Nestled between tall pine trees and next to the gorgeous blue waters of Lake Naomi, our property provides its own beauty. We have oversized guest rooms perfect for couples or cabin suites for when you need space for the whole family. During your stay, you’ll also have access to our complimentary amenities like daily breakfast.
Check our availability today to start planning your dream getaway to the Poconos!
