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Boasting 22 named waterfalls amid old-growth forest and deeply-incised canyons, Rickett’s Glen State Park encompasses more than 13,000 acres around a high bluff known as the Allegheny Front. On top of the bluff, several lakes—Lake Jean being the largest—are the source of the many creeks that tumble down the canyons and create the spectacular falls. The area was mostly logged out in the early 1900s by the landowner, R. Bruce Ricketts, before he decided to preserve the woodlands in the falls’ three glens. Following efforts to turn the area into a national park in the 1930s failed, he began selling the land to the state of Pennsylvania, who turned the area into a state park in 1944. The park is now a year-round destination for camping, hiking, fishing, bird-watching, paddling, skiing and ice climbing.
Just an hour’s drive west of Scranton, the campground at Rickett’s Glen offers 120 drive-in campsites in two areas near the shore of Lake Jean. Sites can accommodate trailers and RVs up to 40 feet; some sites are ADA accessible, and a few group camps are available. Hookups are not available, but there is a dump station outside the camping area. Facilities in the campgrounds include restrooms with showers, drinking water, an amphitheater, a trail to the lake’s beach, and a designated dog area. The Big Loop campground also has five deluxe cottages available to rent. In a separate area, there are 10 cabins available, as well as a boat ramp (rentals available) and snack bar. Campsite rates range from $15–$20/night; cabins and cottages range from $60–$115/night.
The most popular activity at Rickett’s Glen is to hike through the three waterfall glens. This can be done via several looping trails ranging from 3.4 miles to 7.2 miles. Two trailheads are located above the falls, from the lakes area, and one is located below the falls, from PA Route 118. Other summer activities in the park include paddling and fishing on Lake Jean, or just soaking up the sun at the beach. An onsite naturalist offers guided walks, nature activities and interpretive programs. There are also limited hunting opportunities. If visiting during the winter season, many of the trails are open for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. Ice fishing is popular, as is ice climbing on the waterfalls. Check the park’s website for off-season services, accessibility, and ice climbing requirements.
Had an amazing time! The Falls trail is tough…. Need to wear proper hiking footwear and trekking poles are also really handy. I was thankful for the hiking boots I wore as they seemed to really grip the rocks. There is a lot of climbing, both down and up again. I tracked 4.41 miles and 1500’ climb down and 2200’ climb back up (all natural rock steps) from the Lake Rose Trailhead. It’s a rigorous hike, so bring lots of water and snacks. I wore a hydration backpack so water was always available when I needed it. It took us 4 hours with rests and extra time for photos at each waterfall. When I go back, I’m going to allocate the whole day so we can really take our time.
I love this park! The waterfall trail is gorgeous, and such a nice moderate walk. We bring the dogs with us, it wears them out pretty good!
This park is absolutely gorgeous.
The drive is a bit long, but it is a very scenic drive and well worth the investment.
22 beautiful waterfalls await you on this trail.
Make sure you go to the bathroom before you start the Falls Trail because there are no bathrooms once you start your hike.
Also check the forecast before you go because you don't want to go on a rainy day, or even on a day where it rained the previous day, because thats how slippery the stone steps will get.
Wear boots like Timbs if possible or a good non slip sneaker.
If you want parking, go early. Earlier the better because this Park gets filled up quick!
Great spot for a day trip, wherever you are coming from.
I can say without equivocation that this state park is one of the most special places in Pennsylvania. The falls trail feels like you're hiking through a fantasy land, barely tamed. At times the trail is cut right into the side of the glen with the fall just out of arms reach next to you. If you go after a few days of rain, then you will be treated to a spectacular view of overflowing falls. One of the best hidden gems in the whole eastern US.
However, be in decent shape and ready for a hard hike. It's about 6 miles of rugged rocky ground. Good shoes are a must and hiking sticks are recommended. You will descend it ascend about a 1000 feet and do the opposite on the way back. So be ready for a workout. But if you take your time and enjoy the falls you will find it not as difficult as it seems. At a leisurely pace it will take you anywhere from. 4-6 hours to complete. Plan accordingly and enjoy.
Four friends and I met up for a day hike at Ricketts Glen State Park in January to see the icy waterfalls. There are multiple parking lots. We chose the lot off of route 118, which was clearly marked and had a good amount of spots available to park.
It is a short walk to the trailheads from the lot. The entrance to the falls trail was roped off and had closed signs clearly marked. You must have the proper gear to enter this area in the winter, or a park ranger may fine you if they catch you. Be prepared and bring an ice axe, rope, and crampons if you want to hike the falls trail in winter.
Upon entering the trail you will see the river and a few small waterfalls as you walk toward the falls loop, which is about a mile and a half from the start. There are a few icy patches at the beginning of the trail, but it was not that treacherous. However, it was warm the days prior, which may have melted a lot of the ice. At the falls loop section of the trail, be prepared to climb approximately one thousand feet over a couple of miles. You will need your ice equipment on this section of the trail as most of the areas near the multiple falls are covered in slippery ice. Crampons are an absolute must!
The views of the multiple falls are amazing and pictures do not do it justice as usually is the case. You will see the ice formations around the falls and on the steps leading up the trail. The trail is easy to follow but is moderately difficult if you are a novice hiker. The total distance I recorded on the trail was about 7.5 miles once we returned to the parking lot. We took our time and spent about 4 hours on the trail.
We saw what appeared to be guided tours on the trail which groups of people carrying their ice equipment and helmets. We also saw a lot of other hikers and their dogs on the trail.
I highly recommend Ricketts Glen Park if you like to get outdoors and hike moderately difficult terrain. You will not be disappointed in the views of the falls including Ganoga Falls which is 94 feet tall.
