6 Amazing Waterfall Hikes in Delaware Water Gap, Pennsylvania
Here’s our advice: DO go chasing waterfalls (we’re aware of the song that advises against it). There are tons of beautiful waterfalls all over Pennsylvania with a vast array of scenic hiking trails and breathtaking views. The Delaware Water Gap area in Eastern PA is full of impressive falls, from the towering Raymondskill Falls to the peaceful Shohola Falls, the Delaware Water Gap region boasts a spectacular collection of waterfall hikes that make for the perfect day outside.
With so many options to choose from, it can be tough to know where to start. If you’re looking for trails that won’t run you ragged, offer a 10/10 view, and have family friendly options, check out our list we put together below. The best part? All the below trails are within 30 minutes of each other.
When to visit
These waterfalls are beautiful all year round with each season having their own aesthetic:
Spring brings on rushing waters and fresh blooms
Summer allows the mist of the waterfalls to cool you down on a hot sunny day
Fall shows off the magnificent changing colors
Winter highlights the beauty of frozen waterfalls
Leave No Trace
Do your part to keep nature beautiful! Remember to follow the 7 principles of Leave No Trace, pack out all your trash, take only pictures, and do not graffiti, deface, or leave any marks!
A good reminder to everybody - do not leave trash along the trail!
1. Bushkill Falls
Known as the "Niagara of Pennsylvania," this stunning park features multiple cascading waterfalls, each more breathtaking than the last. Bushkill offers four different paths to view the waterfalls, each with varying length and difficulty. The main waterfalls are easily accessible by the boardwalk path along the green trail which only takes about 15 minutes. The longest trail runs 2.0 miles and takes you through the surrounding forest area and offers viewpoints of Bridal Veil Falls and Delaware Water Gap.
The main falls from the lower path at the base of the waterfall
Bushkill Falls is very family friendly and can accommodate many age groups and ability levels.
Main falls from the higher walking path
Waterfalls you’ll see:
Main Falls (Bushkill Falls)
Lower Gorge Falls
Laurel Glen Falls
Bridesmaid’s Falls
Bridal Veil Falls
Pennell Falls
Bridal Veil Falls - This waterfall can be seen while hiking the Red Trail at Bushkill Falls
Entrance Fee: $20 weekend entrance fee, $17 weekday
Season Dates: April 1st through October 31st, April and November weather permitting.
Trail Information: multiple trails ranging from 0.5 miles to 2.0 miles
Difficulty: Varies from easy to moderate depending on trail
Website: https://www.visitbushkillfalls.com/
2. Dingmans Falls & Silverthread Falls
Two beautiful waterfalls in one trail? Score! Dingmans Falls is Pennsylvania’s second-highest waterfall and a must-visit destination for waterfall lovers. The wheelchair accessible boardwalk trail takes you through the forest along Dingmans Creek, leading to the stunning waterfall. Along the way you’ll pass the picturesque Silverthread Falls which drops 80 feet and cascades down a rocky ledge, surrounded by lush greenery and a tranquil pool at its base.
Silver Thread Falls is right at the beginning of the trail
Entrance Fee: Free
Season Dates: Open year round
Trail Information: 1.4 mile out and back, approximately 40 minutes to complete
Difficulty: Easy
All Trails link: Dingmans Falls
Lower viewpoint of Dingmans Falls
3. Raymondskill Falls
Raymondskill is the tallest waterfall in Pennsylvania! This magnificent waterfall consists of 3 roaring cascades and has 2 observation platforms and a trail to the top. The short trail is a well built path making it easy for people to view the magnificent falls.
Entrance Fee: Free
Season Dates: Open year round
Trail Information: 0.5 mile loop, approximately 15 minutes to complete
Difficulty: Easy
All Trails link: Raymondskill Falls
4. Shohola Falls
A hidden gem in the Pocono Mountains that should not be missed! Shohola Falls is a wide cascading waterfall at the base of Shohola Marsh Reservoir. Park at the lot at the end of Brooks Cabin Road and take the short walk down to the base of the falls. This is a great spot for outdoor water recreation. We were lucky enough to witness people kayaking down the rushing waterfall - how cool!
The falls were rushing in early May this year! (Taken 5/6/23)
Entrance Fee: Free
Season Dates: Open year round
Trail Information: 0.6 mile loop, approximately 15 minutes to complete
Difficulty: Easy
All Trails link: Shohola Falls Trail - if you’re just looking for the falls, park at the lot at the end of Brooks Cabin Road and follow the trail down to the falls, this is what we did.
A kayaker takes on the falls!
5. Hornbecks Creek Trail
Offering views of the surrounding forest, meadows, and two stunning waterfalls, Hornbecks Creek is the perfect trail if you’re looking to get in touch with nature. The trail is secluded, even on a busy Saturday afternoon we only saw two other people on the trail. The upper falls are magnificent but the lower falls are truly breathtaking. Pro tip, start at the north end of the trail along Emery road and hike down to the falls. This makes the trail a little shorter if you’re in a time pinch.
*Note: If you’re going during the spring or summer make sure to wear bug spray and check for ticks afterwards!
Upper falls
Entrance Fee: Free
Season Dates: Open year round
Trail Information: 3.7 mile out and back, approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to complete
Difficulty: Moderate
All Trails link: Hornbecks Creek Trail
Lower Falls
6. Tumbling Waters
This scenic hiking trail offers breathtaking views of Tumbling Waters Creek as it cascades down rocky ledges and flows through tranquil pools. The trail starts off at the Pocono Environmental Education Center and wraps you past two ponds, through the surrounding forest, and past a beautiful waterfall!
Entrance Fee: Free
Season Dates: Open year round
Trail Information: 3.1 loop, approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to complete
Difficulty: Moderate
All Trails link: Tumbling Waters Trail
Happy trails and waterfall hunting. If you have a favorite waterfall trail, let us know in the comments below!