Last weekend, I finally checked off a long-awaited hike from my Pennsylvania bucket list: the 24 Waterfalls Loop at Ricketts Glen State Park. Nestled in the heart of Luzerne, Sullivan, and Columbia counties, this magical place is home to some of the most stunning waterfalls on the East Coast—and trust me, the pictures don’t do it justice.
🌲 The Journey Begins from York County
The drive from York County, PA to Ricketts Glen State Park took me about 2 hours and 45 minutes—long enough to feel like an adventure, but not so far that it felt exhausting. With a good playlist, snacks, and a cup of coffee, the miles flew by. I hit the road early in the morning to make the most of the day.
Pro tip: Cell signal can get spotty closer to the park, so I highly recommend downloading offline maps and saving trail details ahead of time.
💦 The Legendary 24 Waterfalls Loop
Once I arrived, the cool mountain air and the sound of rushing water instantly transported me to a different world. The Falls Trail System—often referred to as the 24 Waterfalls Loop—is a roughly 7.2-mile hike that takes you past, yes, 24 named waterfalls, each with its own personality and charm.
Some highlights from the hike:
Ganoga Falls – The tallest at 94 feet, and absolutely mesmerizing.
Tuscarora and Erie Falls – A perfect duo for photo ops.
R.B. Ricketts Falls – Tucked away like a hidden gem.
The terrain can be tricky in places—lots of stone steps, narrow paths, and slippery spots near the falls—so wear good hiking boots and take your time. Trekking poles help too, especially on the steeper descents.
What really struck me was how the waterfalls just kept coming. Every few minutes, you’d hear the next cascade before you saw it. It was like nature’s own treasure hunt.
Note: If you’re doing the full loop, plan for 4–5 hours of hiking depending on your pace and how often you stop (and believe me, you’ll want to stop a lot).
📝 Final Thoughts & Tips
Ricketts Glen State Park is more than just a hiking spot—it’s an experience. From towering waterfalls to moss-covered rocks and serene forest trails, this place has a little magic in it. If you’re looking for a day trip from York County or anywhere in central PA, this is one you won’t forget.
Helpful Tips:
- Bring plenty of water and snacks.
- There are restrooms at the trailhead, but no facilities along the trail.
- Arrive early—parking can fill up quickly, especially on weekends.
- Check the weather—wet conditions can make the trail dangerous.
- Spring and early summer are the best times to visit for full waterfall flow.
