Bushkill Falls

4.5(1.4K)google

4.0(355)yelp

Adult · Weekday $18/Weekend $20·Senior(62+) · Weekday $17/Weekend $19·Child(4-10y) $10·Infant(under 3) FreeUSD

Hiking TrailScenic LookoutKidsOutdoorPhoto SpotMust-SeeLocal FavoriteWaterfallForestCanyon

Overview

Bushkill Falls, often referred to as the 'Niagara of Pennsylvania,' is a majestic network of eight distinct waterfalls tucked deep inside the forested Pocono Mountains. Regarded as one of the state's most beautiful natural attractions, it features a series of scenic hiking trails and well-maintained wooden boardwalks suitable for all skill levels. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking bridge overlooks, paddle boating, miniature golf, and educational exhibits about local Native American history. It is an ideal outdoor retreat for fresh air, stunning photography, and family bonding.

Practical Info

Bushkill Falls, Lehman Township, PA 18324, USA

Suggested Duration2-4 hours

Best TimeOpen seasonally from April to November, with early October foliage being the crown jewel window across the Poconos. Step onto the wooden suspension trail at 9:00 AM sharp opening; early hours ensure the 100-foot Main Falls is illuminated under horizontal sunbeams casting minimal harsh shadows across the deep forest gorge, while avoiding heavy weekend tourist crowds.

Getting ThereSituated deeply in the Poconos wilderness at 138 Bushkill Falls Road. Driving is essential. From East Stroudsburg, follow US-209 N north for 12 miles, turn left at the Bushkill village traffic light onto Bushkill Falls Road, and drive 5 miles through the canopy woods. The private trust provides an enormous, free flat concrete parking plaza.

Travel Tips

Marketed as the 'Niagara of Pennsylvania,' this is a privately owned commercial park where the US Interagency National Parks Pass is totally invalid, requiring standalone admission fees. The property initiates a total operational shutdown annually from December to March/April due to structural ice hazards on the boardwalks.
The premier 'Red Trail' loop spans nearly 1,200 steep, slick wooden steps with significant elevation changes and constant moisture exposure; proper footwear with deep traction patterns is contractually required, and photographers must deploy weather-sealed gear covers to counter the intense, continuous ambient waterfall spray.

Photo Tips

Best LightPeak summer weekend rush (11:00 AM - 2:00 PM) sees heavy tour-bus arrivals, creating severe structural pedestrian bottlenecks along the narrow, single-file wooden boardwalks; arrival exactly at the 9:00 AM opening gate is required to capture misty morning light filters and secure prime front-row parking.

Reviews

Positive

Known as the 'Niagara of Pennsylvania' with good reason; the eight waterfalls in dense forests are stunning and photogenic.
The wooden boardwalks and viewing decks are beautifully built, with excellent clear signage for all main overlooks.
The park management is highly professional, with active rangers patrolling slippery sections to ensure guest safety.
The park features well-equipped gift shops, food courts, rest pavilions, and expansive self-driving parking lots.

Heads up

As a nature site, admission is expensive, and in-park add-ons like food and boating feel somewhat overpriced.
Since the trails consist entirely of mountain stairs, it is completely inaccessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
Weekend crowd density is terrible; narrow boardwalks force you to move in lockstep, eliminating any peaceful enjoyment.
Though beautiful, the heavy commercial packaging at the entrance makes it feel more like a theme park than a nature reserve.