Ricketts Glen State Park

Ricketts Glen State Park covers more than 13,000 acres in the Endless Mountains region of northeastern Pennsylvania, spread across parts of Sullivan, Columbia, and Luzerne counties. The park draws visitors from across the Mid-Atlantic for one reason above all others: its waterfalls. Twenty-two named falls drop along Kitchen Creek and its tributaries, some plunging more than 90 feet through gorges lined with old-growth eastern hemlocks that are centuries old. This combination of dramatic geology, ancient forest, and accessible trails makes Ricketts Glen one of the most visually striking parks in the state system.

The Falls Trails and Kitchen Creek Gorge

The heart of the park is a loop trail system connecting the three main gorges where the waterfalls are concentrated. The Falls Trail runs approximately 7.2 miles in its full loop, passing all 22 named waterfalls along the way. Ganoga Falls, at 94 feet, is the tallest. Others like Mohican, Oneida, and Adams falls each have their own character depending on water volume and the angle of the surrounding rock.

The trail is rated difficult, and that rating is earned. The path descends steeply in places, crosses wooden bridges over the creek, and requires careful footing on stone steps that become slick when wet. Many hikers choose to do the loop in sections, accessing different entry points to see specific falls without completing the full route. For those who want a shorter introduction, the upper section from the Ganoga Glen trailhead reaches several of the larger falls within a mile or two.

The old-growth hemlocks along the gorge are a significant part of the experience. Some trees exceed 500 years in age and reach heights over 100 feet. A section of the park has been designated a National Natural Landmark in recognition of this forest.

Highland and Ridge Trails

Beyond the gorge system, Ricketts Glen has more than 26 miles of additional trails across the highland plateau and ridge areas. These paths travel through a different landscape entirely, quieter and more open, passing through second-growth forest, meadows, and wetland areas. The Highland Trail is the longest single route in the park and connects to the Falls Trail at multiple points.

These upper trails see less foot traffic than the gorge routes and offer a more solitary experience, particularly on weekdays. Birding is productive here in spring and early summer, when warblers and other migratory species move through. Lake Rose and Lake Jean, both within the park, can be reached by trail and add variety to longer hikes.

Lake Jean Swimming and Paddling

Lake Jean is the park’s main recreation lake and has a guarded swimming beach open during summer months. The beach is popular on hot weekends and can get crowded by midday. Visitors can also bring non-motorized watercraft to paddle the lake. Kayaks and canoes can be launched from the designated area near the beach.

Fishing is available on Lake Jean and several smaller water bodies in the park, though it is generally considered secondary to the hiking and swimming that draw most visitors.

Camping and Cabins

The park has a large campground near Lake Jean with both tent and RV sites. Facilities include modern restrooms with showers, a camp store, and a playground. The campground tends to fill on summer weekends and fall foliage weekends, so advance reservations are strongly recommended. The park also offers cabin and cottage rentals for those who want a more sheltered stay.

There is no vehicle entry fee to enter the park. Camping starts at approximately $20 per night, with cabin and cottage rates varying by size and season.

Pet Policy

Pets are welcome in most areas of Ricketts Glen but must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet at all times. They are permitted on trails, in the campground, and in picnic areas. Pets are not allowed on the swimming beach or in cabin rentals. Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their animals throughout the park.

Wildlife to Be Aware Of

Black bears live throughout the park and are regularly seen near campgrounds and along trails, particularly in areas with berry-producing vegetation. Store all food and scented items in your vehicle or a bear canister when camping, and never leave food unattended at a campsite or picnic area. If you encounter a bear on the trail, do not run. Make noise, stand your ground, and give the animal space to move away.

Timber rattlesnakes are present in the rocky and wooded sections of the park, including areas along the Falls Trail and ridge trails. They are venomous and should be treated with serious caution. Stay on marked trails, watch where you step, and never reach into rock crevices or dense brush without looking first. Rattlesnakes are not aggressive but will defend themselves if surprised.

The wet rocks along the waterfall trails are genuinely hazardous. Waterfall spray and seasonal moisture create slippery conditions year-round, but especially in spring and after rain. Sturdy shoes with good traction are important, and visitors should use handrails and designated footholds wherever they are provided. Injuries from falls on this trail system are not uncommon.

Practical Information

Ricketts Glen State Park is located at approximately 41.3223 latitude, -76.4469 longitude. The park office is accessible via Red Rock Road near Benton, Pennsylvania. The nearest towns for fuel and supplies are Benton to the south and Dushore to the north. The park is roughly two hours from both Philadelphia and the Scranton area.

There is no vehicle entry fee. Camping starts at approximately $20 per night, with cabin and cottage rentals available at higher rates. Reservations are strongly recommended for all overnight accommodations, particularly from June through October when fall color draws significant visitation.