This guest blog was written by John Saintcross.
Do you love waterfalls? Do you like to get up close and personal with each cascade? Then visit Rickett’s Glen State Park, just west of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. I’ve made two trips to this gem of a park. Each time I hiked the aptly named Falls Trail with my family, but I plan on visiting again.
The trail is shaped like the letter “Y” and boasts 21 waterfalls. The falls appear on the three legs of this “letter” and range in height from 15 to 94 feet. The beautiful glens, Canoga and Glen Leigh are narrow cuts in the mountain where water flows before combining to form one stream. Most (18) of the waterfalls can be seen via a 3-mile loop. If you want to view all of the cascades, you’ll have to hike another 1-2 miles. It’s worth it!
What I find most interesting about this trail system is the proximity of the trail to the flow of water and the brinks of numerous falls. As you hike, you’ll find bridges that cross between sides of the glen. Note: there are no railings along the trails to obscure the view of the falls, constrict your sense of adventure, or detract from the natural setting. So, you can expect numerous photogenic opportunities.
Having said that; experiencing the glens requires hiking down and up steep rock stairs and other hardscape surfaces. In some places, the ground is wet and takes you close to cliff-like drop-offs. Reasonable conditioning, good footwear, and judicious use of caution, especially when hiking with children, are necessary to enjoy this close encounter with nature.
So if you travel the I 84, I 80, and I 81 corridors through northeastern Pennsylvania, and you have the time, consider stopping. Take some time, explore the park, and hike the trails to the many waterfalls.That is, if your well-worn boots have some life left in them. You won’t regret it. Note: The park is open every day of the year, sunrise to sunset.
Considerations
- Check the park’s website for hours of operation, announcements, and a detailed trail map
- Parking is ample and public restrooms are available at the Lake Rose trailhead
- The Falls Trail attracts many people daily so arrive in the early morning
- Stick to the trails and do not disturb wildlife
- Take caution: rocks near waterfalls can become very slippery
Photo Credits
John Saintcross
References
Pennsylvania Department of Conservation & Natural Resources: Ricketts Glen State Park
Resources
Colombia-Montour Visitors Bureau: Home
Sullivan County, Pennsylvania: Home
Visit Luzerne County: Home