Ricketts Glen State Park
4.8(5.8K)google
4.5(127)yelp
Hiking TrailCampingSwimmingScenic LookoutFamilyOutdoorPhotography SpotMust-SeeLocal FavoriteWaterfallForestCanyon
Overview
Ricketts Glen State Park is one of the most scenic natural areas in Pennsylvania, renowned for its old-growth forests and the magnificent Glens Natural Area. The main highlight is the Falls Trail, a challenging hiking loop that takes visitors past 21 beautiful wild waterfalls cascading through rock crevices. The tallest of these, Ganoga Falls, drops a spectacular 94 feet. Offering unparalleled opportunities for photography, wildlife viewing, and peaceful hiking, this state park is a true paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers visiting the region.
Practical Info
Suggested Duration3-6 hours
Best TimeEarly October foliage peak is unparalleled for autumn framing, while May captures maximum roaring volume. Embark via the legendary Falls Trail early between 7:00 AM and 8:30 AM; morning glen mist combined with low-angle sunbeams filtering through the fiery maples illuminates the 21 historic waterfalls beautifully, while securing narrow cliffside trail paths to yourself.
Getting ThereSituated north of Benton. Accessible strictly by car. From Wilkes-Barre, take PA-118 W and merge onto PA-487 N winding continuously uphill for 30 minutes. Pull right following the rustic stone state park arches straight into the primary Lake Jean free paved trailhead lot, where the 7.2-mile loops begin.
Travel Tips
- The demanding 7.2-mile Falls Trail loop features 21 waterfalls and rugged, wet stone steps where the DCNR strictly mandates rugged hiking boots with aggressive tread; sneakers, sandals, or flip-flops are strictly prohibited. In winter, the entire trail system locks down due to hazardous ice accumulation and is accessible only to registered ice climbers equipped with crampons and ice axes.
- The deep gorges along the Falls Trail are absolute cell service blindspots across all major carriers; you must download offline topographic trail maps or secure a physical trail map at the Lake Jean visitor station before losing signal along PA-487, as real-time GPS routing will fail entirely.
- During summer and autumn peak-foliage weekends, the primary Lake Jean parking lots routinely reach maximum capacity before 9:30 AM, triggering closures of the access gates along PA-487. To secure a parking space and avoid harsh midday backlighting for waterfall photography, arrive no later than 7:00 AM or plan a weekday excursion.
Reviews
Positive
- The waterfall trails offer absolutely stunning natural views; the 20+ waterfalls are true to their fame and the hike is fantastic.
- The trail markers and directory signs are clear, with reliable safety railings installed along dangerous sections.
- No admission fee is required and parking is free, offering incredible value and a pure, tranquil nature escape.
- Restrooms and trash cans are well-placed at the trailheads and picnic areas, keeping the park exceptionally clean.
Heads up
- For unconditioned hikers or mobility-impaired guests, the wet stone steps are treacherous due to a lack of ADA facilities.
- Public transit is unavailable, making driving the only option; some narrow mountain roads demand caution in rainy weather.
- During peak autumn foliage season, the main waterfall trail gets incredibly crowded, causing bottlenecks on narrow steps.
- Cell service drops completely deep in the gorges, presenting a safety risk if you need to contact emergency management.