Ricketts Glen Falls Trail Guide

Complete Ricketts Glen Falls Trail guide with detailed hiking directions, trail map, and safety information for Pennsylvania's most spectacular 7.2-mile waterfall loop featuring 21 named falls.

Ricketts Glen Falls Trail Overview

Quick Facts

  • Length:7.2 miles (full loop) | 3.2 miles (shorter option)
  • Time:4-6 hours (full loop) | 2-3 hours (shorter)
  • Difficulty:Most Difficult
  • Elevation:Varies (rocky, uneven terrain)
  • Features:21 named waterfalls, rock formations

Trail Type

Loop Trail: Begin and end at Lake Rose Trailhead. The trail forms a figure-8 pattern through two main gorges: Glen Leigh and Ganoga Glen.

Important: This trail is considered one of the most challenging in Pennsylvania. Proper preparation and equipment are essential.

Trail Sections

1

Lake Rose to Beach Lane

0.8 miles

Begin at the Lake Rose Trailhead parking area. This section is relatively easy, following a wide trail through mixed forest. You'll cross Beach Lane road before entering the more challenging terrain.

Tip: Use this section to warm up and check your gear before the challenging portions ahead.

2

Glen Leigh Gorge Descent

1.2 miles

The trail becomes much more challenging as you descend into Glen Leigh Gorge. You'll encounter your first waterfalls here, including Mohawk Falls. The terrain becomes rocky with steep stone steps.

Waterfalls: Mohawk, Oneida, Cayuga, Onondag Falls

Caution: Steep descent, wet rocks can be slippery

3

Waters Meet

0.3 miles

The convergence of Glen Leigh and Ganoga Glen streams. This is the bottom of the loop and a good place to rest before choosing your return route. You can go either direction from here.

Decision Point: Choose Ganoga Glen (recommended) or Glen Leigh for your return journey.

4

Ganoga Glen Ascent

1.4 miles

The most spectacular section featuring the park's highest waterfalls, including the magnificent 94-foot Ganoga Falls. This is a steep, challenging ascent over rocky terrain and stone steps.

Highlights: Ganoga Falls (94ft), Sheldon Reynolds Falls

Most Difficult: Steepest ascent of the entire trail

5

Return to Trailhead

1.2 miles

After completing the waterfalls loop, follow the Highland Trail back to the Lake Rose Trailhead. This section is easier but may feel longer after the challenging gorge hike.

Relief: Mostly level terrain through forest back to parking

Recommended Route

Counter-Clockwise Direction

1

Start at Lake Rose Trailhead - Park in the main lot and begin on the Falls Trail

2

Descend Glen Leigh Gorge - Take the left fork to see waterfalls immediately

3

Reach Waters Meet - Rest and prepare for the challenging ascent

4

Ascend Ganoga Glen - The most challenging but rewarding section

5

Return via Highland Trail - Easier return to complete the loop

Why Counter-Clockwise? This direction allows you to encounter waterfalls early in your hike when energy levels are highest, and saves the most spectacular falls (Ganoga Glen) for the middle of your adventure.

Essential Hiking Tips

Timing Your Hike

  • • Start early (7-8 AM) to avoid crowds
  • • Allow 6+ hours for the full experience
  • • Check daylight hours, especially in fall/winter
  • • Consider trail conditions after rain

Trail Etiquette

  • • Stay on marked trails to protect environment
  • • Pack out all trash (Leave No Trace)
  • • Be courteous to other hikers
  • • Keep noise levels down near waterfalls

Photography Tips

  • • Bring extra batteries (cold weather drains them)
  • • Use a polarizing filter for waterfall shots
  • • Early morning light provides best conditions
  • • Be careful with wet equipment near falls

Emergency Preparedness

  • • Tell someone your hiking plans
  • • Carry a first aid kit
  • • Download offline maps (cell service limited)
  • • Know emergency contact: 911