Ricketts Glen State Park

This is nature’s beauty at its finest. There are at least 20 waterfalls on this 2.5 to 3 mile hike. It’s a moderate level hike. The waterfalls are breathtaking. The hike through the woods as well as along the stream is positively relaxing and gorgeous. This is a hike you can bring your kids with you but I would recommend 5 or older in age due to the steep steps and cliffs. Overall, I highly recommend this hiking location.

Four friends and I met up for a day hike at Ricketts Glen State Park in January to see the icy waterfalls. There are multiple parking lots. We chose the lot off of route 118, which was clearly marked and had a good amount of spots available to park.

It is a short walk to the trailheads from the lot. The entrance to the falls trail was roped off and had closed signs clearly marked. You must have the proper gear to enter this area in the winter, or a park ranger may fine you if they catch you. Be prepared and bring an ice axe, rope, and crampons if you want to hike the falls trail in winter.

Upon entering the trail you will see the river and a few small waterfalls as you walk toward the falls loop, which is about a mile and a half from the start. There are a few icy patches at the beginning of the trail, but it was not that treacherous. However, it was warm the days prior, which may have melted a lot of the ice. At the falls loop section of the trail, be prepared to climb approximately one thousand feet over a couple of miles. You will need your ice equipment on this section of the trail as most of the areas near the multiple falls are covered in slippery ice. Crampons are an absolute must!

The views of the multiple falls are amazing and pictures do not do it justice as usually is the case. You will see the ice formations around the falls and on the steps leading up the trail. The trail is easy to follow but is moderately difficult if you are a novice hiker. The total distance I recorded on the trail was about 7.5 miles once we returned to the parking lot. We took our time and spent about 4 hours on the trail.

We saw what appeared to be guided tours on the trail which groups of people carrying their ice equipment and helmets. We also saw a lot of other hikers and their dogs on the trail.

I highly recommend Ricketts Glen Park if you like to get outdoors and hike moderately difficult terrain. You will not be disappointed in the views of the falls including Ganoga Falls which is 94 feet tall.

I can say without equivocation that this state park is one of the most special places in Pennsylvania. The falls trail feels like you’re hiking through a fantasy land, barely tamed. At times the trail is cut right into the side of the glen with the fall just out of arms reach next to you. If you go after a few days of rain, then you will be treated to a spectacular view of overflowing falls. One of the best hidden gems in the whole eastern US.

However, be in decent shape and ready for a hard hike. It’s about 6 miles of rugged rocky ground. Good shoes are a must and hiking sticks are recommended. You will descend it ascend about a 1000 feet and do the opposite on the way back. So be ready for a workout. But if you take your time and enjoy the falls you will find it not as difficult as it seems. At a leisurely pace it will take you anywhere from. 4-6 hours to complete. Plan accordingly and enjoy.

Had an amazing time! The Falls trail is tough…. Need to wear proper hiking footwear and trekking poles are also really handy. I was thankful for the hiking boots I wore as they seemed to really grip the rocks. There is a lot of climbing, both down and up again. I tracked 4.41 miles and 1500’ climb down and 2200’ climb back up (all natural rock steps) from the Lake Rose Trailhead. It’s a rigorous hike, so bring lots of water and snacks. I wore a hydration backpack so water was always available when I needed it. It took us 4 hours with rests and extra time for photos at each waterfall. When I go back, I’m going to allocate the whole day so we can really take our time.

This park is absolutely gorgeous.
The drive is a bit long, but it is a very scenic drive and well worth the investment.
22 beautiful waterfalls await you on this trail.

Make sure you go to the bathroom before you start the Falls Trail because there are no bathrooms once you start your hike.

Also check the forecast before you go because you don’t want to go on a rainy day, or even on a day where it rained the previous day, because thats how slippery the stone steps will get.

Wear boots like Timbs if possible or a good non slip sneaker.

If you want parking, go early. Earlier the better because this Park gets filled up quick!

Great spot for a day trip, wherever you are coming from.