Ready to chase waterfalls through the heart of the Pennsylvania Wilds?
This road trip is packed with forest hikes, fun surprises, and some of the coolest hidden spots most people don’t even know exist.
We’re talking waterfalls that tumble off cliffs, glide over rock shelves, and pop up in the middle of deep, quiet woods.
Grab your hiking boots and get ready for a trip full of muddy shoes, jaw-dropping views, and memories you’ll be talking about all year.
1. Jacoby Falls
Jacoby Falls is a gorgeous 29-foot waterfall hidden in Loyalsock State Forest, just off Wallis Run Road near the town of Trout Run.
You’ll follow a 1.2-mile path through the woods, crossing footbridges and moss-covered boulders, so bring sturdy shoes for the muddy spots.
The waterfall spills over a rocky cliff in a thin, silky curtain that looks extra magical in spring and early summer.
To get there, plug “Jacoby Falls Trailhead” into your GPS, park at the small roadside lot, and follow the clearly marked trail straight to the falls.
2. Sand Run Falls
Up next is Sand Run Falls, a unique and equally beautiful spot hidden in Tioga State Forest near the town of Blossburg.
This 25-foot waterfall tumbles into a wide, shallow pool surrounded by smooth rocks, perfect for dipping your toes on a hot day.
It’s a 3-mile hike (one way) along the Mid State Trail, winding through peaceful forest and crossing a few gentle streams.
There’s a small parking spot along Landrus Road, where orange and blue trail markers show you where to start.
3. Leonard Harrison State Park Waterfalls
Afterwards, head to Leonard Harrison State Park for some serious wow-factor views and waterfall action inside the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon.
The park’s Turkey Path Trail is a steep but stunning 1-mile hike (each way) that descends into the canyon, passing several small waterfalls along the way.
You’ll pass a series of wooden stairs and platforms that give you up-close views of the falls and the Pine Creek way down below.
Start from the main parking lot at the park’s overlook and bring plenty of water—the trail is a serious workout, but absolutely rewarding.
4. Round Island Run Falls
For something way off the beaten path, Round Island Run Falls is your go-to hidden gem deep in the Sproul State Forest near Keating.
It may not be the tallest, but this waterfall is wild and dramatic as it crashes over a jagged rock wall deep in the remote woods.
Getting to the falls is a 1-mile hike each way on an unmarked but well-used trail that begins on a power line access road and follows Round Island Run.
The easiest access point is from Round Island Ridge Road (search for ‘Round Island Falls Trailhead’ on your GPS) but fair warning, it’s a muddy adventure!
5. Table Falls
Then there’s Table Falls, a low and wide waterfall in the Quehanna Wild Area that could pass for a forest spa fountain.
Instead of crashing down, the water glides smoothly over a flat rock shelf that really does look like a giant stone table.
You’ll find a small parking area near the intersection of Quehanna Highway and Red Run Road, and from there it’s only a short walk to the falls.
This spot is super peaceful, surrounded by ferns and hemlocks, and feels like one of those places you’ll want to keep all to yourself.
6. Hector Falls
Finishing strong with Hector Falls—a showstopper hidden in Allegheny National Forest, just outside the town of Ludlow.
This 20-foot waterfall flows gracefully over a layered rock ledge into a splashy pool that echoes through the trees.
The hike is about 1 mile each way, starting from a parking lot along Forestry Road and following an unmarked but visible trail through the woods.
There’s no signage for the falls, so keep your ears open and follow the worn trail—it leads straight to one of the forest’s best-kept secrets.
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