There are very few things mother nature offers that rival the breathtaking magnificence of a waterfall. Can you imagine the rays of light as they hit the rushing water at just the right angle? What about the falling water turning into ice in the middle of a frosty winter?
Such a spectacular sight certainly promises an unforgettable experience. But, for some of us, getting to those waterfalls is impossible because of the terrain that must be hiked to get there.
And we desire a laid-back experience that takes our breath away from sheer beauty rather than all that fast-paced walking. This is why we’ve selected a few waterfalls in Pennsylvania that are accessible to anyone with beginner to intermediate hiking abilities.
And while all 5 of these require SOME hiking, they can be reached in roughly five minutes along well-defined, easy-to-hike paths!
…Click “Next” and discover them ALL!
The southern part of Pennsylvania doesn’t have too many waterfalls. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t some beautiful falls waiting to be discovered. Located in York County, this waterfall is well worth the short hike required to see it.
You’ll find it along the Mason-Dixon Trail, and it’s less than 100 yards from the road but does require a bit of walking due to the location of the parking spaces. However, getting to this stunning waterfall will only take you about five minutes.
And if you’re feeling adventurous that day and wish to explore even further, there’s a smaller waterfall just a few minutes further up the trail.
Dry Run Falls is in Loyalsock State Forest, and it’s one of the most sought-after waterfalls in Pennsylvania… and one of the most easily accessible. You can technically view it from the comfort of your car while passing through.
But we recommend getting closer to get a closer look, which you’ll be able to do within 50 feet of your vehicle.
And if you want an even more magnificent view, getting to the bottom of this waterfall is relatively effortless, although it DOES require a very quick but somewhat steep decline along a narrow trail. So what do you think? Is it worth the view?
You’re in for a special treat! Ricketts Glen State Park is home to 21 stunning waterfalls! And while many of them can only be seen by those interested in hiking the 7.2-mile-long Falls Trail, one particular fall is easily visible to almost everyone.
Adams Falls is located about 100 yards from the Evergreen Parking Lot if you’re traveling on Route 118, and it cascades through a chute. Fun Fact: It’s considered by many travelers to be the most gorgeous waterfall in this State Park.
And while you do need to go on a bit of a hike along a fairly uneven path, the trail is relatively flat and wide, making this an accessible waterfall to explore.
Cucumber and Ohiopyle Falls are less than a mile apart and can be found in Ohiopyle State Park, making them both Must-See Places. While driving in the area, look for a sign that reads Cucumber Falls and a small parking lot where you can keep your vehicle.
You’ll be able to view the falls from up above, and if you feel like taking a bit of a walk, go down a staircase to see the waterfall from its base. You can even walk behind the falls for a unique view.
And as for Ohiopyle Falls, search for the Ohiopyle State Park Visitors Center and park. You can either view the gushing falls from a viewing area inside the visitor’s center or from a viewing platform outdoors.
If you’ve been searching for “waterfalls in Pennsylvania,” Dingman Falls has probably been at the top of that list. It’s the second tallest fall in the state, and it cascades down 130 feet.
To reach this famous cascade, you’ll have to follow a short wooden boardwalk trail that spans less than half a mile, which is also beautiful, by the way. And the best part about this fall is that it has been rated as easy for folks of all skill levels and ages.
The trail is mostly flat and boasts an abundance of natural beauty, including wooded areas and flowing streams where you can cool off.
Have we convinced you to visit Pennsylvania’s waterfalls? Make sure you take lots of pics while on your adventures, and tell us all about them in the comments section!
And if you enjoyed this article, our site has many more we think you’ll like! For instance, we highly recommend checking out: Top 5 Weekend Getaways in New York
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