94ft
Tallest Fall
Ganoga Falls
The crown jewel of Ricketts Glen, this spectacular 94-foot waterfall is the tallest in the park and one of Pennsylvania's most impressive falls.
Learn more →Ricketts Glen State Park GuideFalls Trail, Camping & Complete Park Info
The complete Ricketts Glen State Park guide featuring the famous Falls Trail, camping information, directions, and all 21 spectacular waterfalls. Discover Pennsylvania's premier state park with detailed trail maps, safety tips, and expert advice for visiting the magnificent 94-foot Ganoga Fallsand the entire Ricketts Glen State Park experience.
7.2
Miles Total
21
Waterfalls
4-6
Hours
94
Ft Highest Fall
Ricketts Glen State Park: Complete Visitor Information
Ricketts Glen State Park is Pennsylvania's premier waterfall hiking destination, featuring the famous Falls Trail System with 21 named waterfalls. This 13,050-acrePennsylvania state park offers camping, hiking trails, and the spectacular7.2-mile Falls Trail loop through the Glens Natural Area, a National Natural Landmark.Ricketts Glen State Park provides year-round outdoor recreation with proper facilities and expert ranger guidance for all visitors.
Ricketts Glen State Park Quick Facts:
Park Size: 13,050 acres
Falls Trail: 7.2 miles, 21 waterfalls
Camping: Available with reservations
Tallest Waterfall: Ganoga Falls (94 feet)
Park Hours: 8:00 AM - Sunset
Difficulty: Most Difficult (Falls Trail)
Best Seasons: Spring, Fall (optimal flow)
Pet Friendly: Yes (on leash, designated areas)
Trail Difficulty
Rated as "Most Difficult" by PA State Parks. The trail features rocky terrain, steep descents, and challenging stone steps. Proper hiking boots are essential.
Best Time to Visit
Spring and fall offer the best waterfall flow and comfortable temperatures. Summer can be crowded but offers full foliage. Winter closures apply.
Starting Point
Begin at the Lake Rose Trailhead for the recommended counter-clockwise route. Free parking available with restroom facilities at the trailhead.
Interactive Trail Map
Explore all 21 waterfalls with GPS coordinates, elevation data, and trail difficulty
Interactive Trail Map
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Featured Waterfalls
Discover the most spectacular falls along the trail
37ft
Height
Delaware Falls
A beautiful multi-tiered waterfall that creates perfect photography opportunities with its unique rock formations and clear pools.
Learn more →39ft
Height
Mohican Falls
One of the most accessible falls on the trail, offering stunning views and a great introduction to the waterfall experience.
Learn more →Plan Your Adventure
Everything you need to know for a safe and memorable hike
Frequently Asked Questions About Ricketts Glen Falls Trail
How long is the Ricketts Glen Falls Trail?
The Ricketts Glen Falls Trail is 7.2 miles total when completed as a full loop. The hike typically takes 4-6 hours to complete depending on your pace, photography stops, and time spent at waterfalls. For reference, the trail to Ganoga Falls (the tallest waterfall) is approximately 3.2 miles from the Lake Rose Trailhead.
Can you swim at Ricketts Glen Falls Trail?
Swimming is not permitted in any of the waterfalls or pools along the Ricketts Glen Falls Trail. The water is extremely cold year-round, currents can be dangerous, and rocks are slippery. Additionally, swimming is prohibited by Pennsylvania State Park regulations to protect both visitors and the fragile ecosystem around the waterfalls.
Where is Ricketts Glen Falls Trail located?
Ricketts Glen Falls Trail is located in Ricketts Glen State Park in northeastern Pennsylvania, near Benton in Columbia County. The park is approximately 20 miles north of Bloomsburg and 25 miles west of Wilkes-Barre. The main trailhead (Lake Rose Trailhead) is accessible via PA Route 118.
What is Ricketts Glen State Park?
Ricketts Glen State Park is a 13,050-acre Pennsylvania state parkfamous for its spectacular Falls Trail System featuring 21 waterfalls. The park contains the Glens Natural Area, designated as a National Natural Landmark, which preserves old-growth forest and pristine waterfall ecosystems. It's considered one of Pennsylvania's premier hiking destinations.
How difficult is the Ricketts Glen Falls Trail?
The Ricketts Glen Falls Trail difficulty is rated "Most Difficult" by Pennsylvania State Parks. The trail features steep, rocky terrain with significant elevation changes (approximately 1,000 feet total). Hikers encounter slippery rocks, narrow stone steps, and challenging descents. Proper hiking boots, good physical fitness, and hiking experience are strongly recommended.
How many waterfalls are in Ricketts Glen?
Ricketts Glen features 21 named waterfalls along the Falls Trail System. The tallest is Ganoga Falls at 94 feet, followed by Delaware Falls (37 feet) and Mohican Falls (39 feet). These waterfalls range in height from 11 feet to 94 feet, creating one of the most spectacular waterfall concentrations in the eastern United States.