Table of Contents

Pennsylvania is home to some of the most beautiful parks in the country, and Ricketts Glen State Park is one of the crown jewels. The park spans over 13,000 acres and has something for everyone. Breathtaking waterfalls and challenging hiking trails are just some of the features of this beautiful park. If you're looking for an incredible outdoor experience, Ricketts Glen should be top of your list. In this article, I'll tell you precisely why this hike is the best in Pennsylvania.

With 26 miles of hiking trails and a campground on top of a mountain, Ricketts Glen has is home to the best hike in Pennsylvania and maybe in the entire Eastern United States. I've hiked the Falls Trail multiple times. This article will give you some of the highlights of the best waterfall hike I've ever explored.

Key Takeaways

Stunning Waterfalls: Ricketts Glen boasts 22 waterfalls, including the 94-foot Ganoga Falls, making it a prime destination for waterfall enthusiasts.
Challenging Hike: The Falls Trail is moderately difficult, with rocky paths and steep inclines, requiring proper footwear and caution.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall offer the best views, with flowing waterfalls and vibrant foliage. However, it's open year-round.
Variety of Trails: Beyond the Falls Trail, there are easier hikes and paths for all skill levels.
Wildlife and Flora: The park is rich in biodiversity, featuring a range of wildlife and beautiful plant life.

The Falls Trail is an 8-mile loop that takes you by all 22 of the waterfalls in Ricketts Glen

The trail is moderate to strenuous, with some sections being steep. However, the views are more than worth the effort. In addition to the waterfalls, you'll also get scenic views of Lake Ganoga, the largest natural lake in Pennsylvania. All Trails says it takes an average of 3 hours and 26 minutes to complete the loop. Personally I think that would be pretty fast and not allow a lot of time to stop and photograph or enjoy all the different waterfalls.

If you're interested in waterfall photography, Ricketts Glen is an absolute paradise

If you're interested in waterfall photography, Ricketts Glen State Park is a paradise. Nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania, this park is home to the renowned Falls Trail, a haven for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike. I've had the pleasure of visiting countless waterfalls across the country in my years of chasing the perfect shot, and I can confidently say that the Falls Trail offers some of the most spectacular waterfall photography opportunities you'll find anywhere.

The trail itself winds through a lush, verdant landscape, guiding you past no fewer than 22 breathtaking waterfalls, each with its own unique charm and character. From towering cascades that plummet with a thunderous roar to serene flows that gently meander over moss-covered rocks, the diversity of waterfalls along the Falls Trail is truly remarkable.

What sets Ricketts Glen apart for photographers, in particular, is not just the sheer number of waterfalls but the accessibility and variety of compositions they offer. The trail allows you to get up close and personal with these natural wonders, providing countless angles and perspectives to explore. Early morning light filters through the canopy, casting a magical glow on the water and surrounding foliage, while the ever-changing seasons wrap the landscape in a kaleidoscope of colors. Autumn is especially breathtaking, as the fall foliage creates a fiery backdrop to the cascading water, but every season brings its own beauty to the park.

What gear should I take?

Beyond the basics, your gear bag for photographing the waterfalls at Ricketts Glen should include a few additional items to enhance your photography experience. A circular polarizing filter is invaluable, as it can help reduce the glare from wet rocks and foliage, deepen the blues of the sky on clear days, and bring out the rich colors of the scene. This is particularly useful in the vibrant, varied lighting conditions that you'll encounter in the park. A wide-angle lens is perfect for encompassing the grandeur of the falls within their natural setting, while a telephoto lens can isolate details and create compelling compositions. Don't forget extra batteries and memory cards; the beauty of the park will tempt you to take more photos than you anticipate. Anytime your doing waterfall photography you should always shoot on a steady tripod in order to get those long exposures.

Preparation extends beyond just photographic equipment. Given the park's natural terrain and the potential for variable weather conditions, wearing layers can help you adjust to changes throughout the day. A rain jacket or poncho can protect both you and your gear from unexpected showers, which can also provide unique and dramatic photographic opportunities with enhanced colors and contrasts. With the right gear and preparation, you're well-equipped to capture the stunning beauty of Ricketts Glen's waterfalls, creating images that resonate with the power and tranquility of nature.

A campground at the top of the mountain

The parking lot at the trailhead is enormous due to the hike's popularity. If you go on a weekend, expect a lot of delays while waiting for others to navigate some very narrow areas of the trail and some very steep areas on the trail. I would recommend going during the week; however, if that's not possible, make sure you get there before 8 am to have the best experience possible. We decided to camp at the campground, which has a trail that leads directly to the Falls Loop Trailhead at the Lake Rose Trail Head parking lot.

The largest waterfall is over 94' tall

Ganoga Falls, standing majestically at over 94 feet, is not only the tallest but arguably the most awe-inspiring waterfall within Ricketts Glen State Park. Its grandeur earns it the nickname "The Park's Crown Jewel," a title it holds with undeniable grace. The falls cascade in a powerful yet elegant series of drops, creating a spectacle that is both captivating and serene. Visitors have the unique opportunity to experience Ganoga Falls from various perspectives, thanks to some thoughtfully placed short spur trails. These trails provide access to both the top and the bottom of the falls, offering contrasting views that highlight the waterfall's immense scale and the intricate beauty of its surroundings.

From the upper vantage point, one can truly appreciate the height and force of Ganoga Falls as it begins its dramatic descent. This perspective allows for a panoramic view of the waterfall in the context of the lush, forested landscape of Ricketts Glen. Venturing to the bottom, visitors are treated to an up-close experience with the falls, where the sound of the water crashing down reverberates through the air, creating a mesmerizing soundtrack to the visual spectacle. The mist that rises from the base of the falls adds a mystical quality, making it a perfect spot for photographers looking to capture the dynamic interplay of light, water, and nature.

There are over 14 waterfalls on the hike taller than 30'

There are some smaller 10-25 feet tall cascading waterfalls; however, more than half the falls on this hike are over 30' tall. All the waterfalls are accessible via the main Falls Trail loop. There's no need to backtrack or take any side trails to see all the waterfalls. The main trail will take you right to them. Some of the most famous waterfalls include Ganoga Falls, Harrison Wright Falls, Copperas Falls, Cascades Falls, and Rainbow Falls.

On the far Southeast side area of the trail, Kitchen Creek and Lake Rose Creek come together at "The Waters Meet."

Here you can take a break, continue the loop, or take a side trip toward three additional waterfalls. If you follow this trail, it will take you to another trailhead you could use to access the trail right on PA Rt 118.

The trail has over 1100' of elevation gain; however, it's suitable for most people

While some sections have steps and stairs, kids as young as 4-5 can easily complete the hike. There are a lot of senior citizens on the trail as well, although they must be physically capable of tackling the steep sections.

Ricketts Glen State Park is one of the most popular hiking destinations in Pennsylvania. With its stunning waterfalls, scenic views, and easy accessibility, it's the perfect place to enjoy nature. So whether you're a waterfall photographer or simply looking for a great hike, The Falls Trail should be on your list. Check out Ricketts Glen State Park website for more information.

Final Thoughts

Ricketts Glen State Park offers an unforgettable hiking experience for nature lovers and adventurers alike. The stunning waterfalls, challenging yet rewarding trails, and diverse flora and fauna make it a must-visit destination in Pennsylvania. Whether you’re chasing the beauty of the 94-foot Ganoga Falls or enjoying the peaceful scenery along the park’s easier trails, this park is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. Don’t forget to plan ahead, pack the essentials, and embrace the natural beauty this park has to offer. It’s a hike you’ll want to revisit time and time again!

FAQ

1. What is the best trail to hike in Ricketts Glen State Park?
The Falls Trail is the most popular, offering a 7.2-mile loop featuring 22 stunning waterfalls. It’s a moderately difficult hike with rewarding views.

2. Is the hike suitable for beginners?
While the Falls Trail is challenging due to steep and rocky terrain, there are easier trails in the park for beginners or those looking for a less strenuous hike.

3. What time of year is best to visit?
Spring and fall are ideal, with flowing waterfalls and stunning foliage. However, the park is open year-round, and each season offers a unique experience.

4. Are dogs allowed on the trails?
Yes, dogs are allowed on the trails as long as they are kept on a leash.

5. What should I bring for a hike at Ricketts Glen?
Bring proper hiking boots, plenty of water, snacks, and a camera to capture the stunning scenery. A map of the trails is also helpful, as the terrain can be challenging.

Ricketts Glen State Park: The Best Hike In Pennsylvania?