If you’re into waterfalls, winding back roads, and forest trails that smell like pine and adventure, this road trip is calling your name.
We’re talking about a region packed with hidden cascades, jaw-dropping overlooks, and trails that make you feel like you’ve stepped into your own secret hiking park.
Some of these waterfalls are right off the road—literally a few steps from your car—while others make you work for it with muddy boots and uphill climbs (totally worth it, by the way).
Whether you’re looking for a quick photo stop or an all-day trek with waterfall after waterfall, this trip has it all—and a few surprises you won’t see coming.
1. Ricketts Glen State Park
Ricketts Glen State Park is a waterfall-packed wonderland in northeastern Pennsylvania, located within the Endless Mountains.
It’s famous for its epic Falls Trail, a 7.2-mile loop that takes you past 21 stunning waterfalls, including the 94-foot Ganoga Falls—the tallest in the park.
You’ll hike through old-growth forests, hop across rock steps, and feel the cool mist from waterfalls that crash down into rocky pools.
Fun fact: There were plans to establish a national park in the area in the 1930s, but these were stopped due to budget constraints and World War II—lucky for us, it became a protected state park instead.
2. Dutchman Falls
Just up the road from Ricketts Glen, Dutchman Falls is a quick stop with major wow factor, especially if you’re chasing that peaceful, off-the-beaten-path vibe.
It’s tucked right off Route 220 near the town of Sonestown, and reaching the main attraction only takes a short 0.3-mile hike—but be careful, as the trail has a steep descent with some narrow and slippery sections.
The waterfall is a two-tiered cascade dropping about 27 feet in total, with an upper tier of around 7 feet and a lower tier of about 20 feet.
The upper falls rush through a narrow rock chute, while the lower cascade fans out wide into a clear, shallow pool that’s perfect for dipping your toes.
Bring good shoes—as the rocks can be slippery and the water level can change—but this spot is pure magic after a rain, when the whole thing roars like a mini Niagara in the woods.
3. Worlds End State Park
Next up is Worlds End State Park, and don’t let the dramatic name fool you—this place is all peaceful forests, winding trails, and jaw-dropping views.
It’s located in Sullivan County and is best known for the Canyon Vista overlook, where you can see the Loyalsock Creek slicing through the Endless Mountains like a giant nature-made rollercoaster track.
There’s also a swimming hole with a sandy beach, rocky hiking trails like the Loyalsock Trail, and tons of spots to just plop down and listen to the water rushing by.
If you’re visiting in fall, the leaf colors here are absolutely wild—like someone cranked the saturation up to max.
Please note that the designated swimming area is open only from late May to early September.
4. Mineral Spring Falls
Just a short drive from Worlds End, Mineral Spring Falls is one of those blink-and-you’ll-miss-it spots—but trust me, you’ll want to stop.
It’s located along Cold Run Road, shortly after the intersection with Mineral Spring Road, and you can see the waterfall from the road, crashing down.
The falls are about 20 feet high, and the water flows down a slanted rock face that glistens like it’s been polished—especially after a good rain.
It’s a quick visit, but it’s got big charm and lots of natural beauty.
5. Ketchum Run Falls (Loyalsock State Forest)
Keep the waterfall train rolling with Ketchum Run Falls, tucked deep in the wild beauty of Loyalsock State Forest.
This one’s for the adventure lovers—you’ll hike a rugged trail through a mossy, fern-filled gorge to reach a string of waterfalls, each one cooler than the last.
The main falls drop in a wide, picture-perfect sheet, but if you keep exploring upstream, you’ll find hidden cascades and shady spots that feel totally untouched.
It’s not the easiest hike, but if you’re into climbing over logs, getting your boots muddy, and chasing waterfalls with zero crowds, this place is pure gold.
6. Dry Run Falls (Loyalsock State Forest)
After the adventure of Ketchum Run, Dry Run Falls is the perfect low-effort, high-reward stop—and yes, the name is totally misleading.
This beauty flows year-round, tumbling over two tiers of rock into a cozy forest clearing right off the side of Dry Run Road.
You can literally park just a few steps away, so it’s a great option if you’re short on time or just want a peaceful picnic spot with waterfall views.
It’s especially pretty in the morning when the sunlight filters through the trees and lights up the water like it’s glowing.
7. Angel Falls
If you’re up for one last epic hike, Angel Falls is the grand finale you didn’t know you needed.
Located in Shrewsbury Township, this 70-foot waterfall is one of the tallest in the region, and yep—it’s just as dramatic as it sounds.
You’ll follow a steep, rocky trail through dense forest, starting on the Loyalsock Trail before switching to a side trail, where the trees suddenly open up to reveal the falls plunging over a massive cliff.
It’s got serious wow-factor, especially after a rain, and while more hikers are discovering it, you might still get lucky and have some quiet time to enjoy the falls.
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