Ricketts Glen Waterfall Hike

The Ricketts Glen waterfall hike, 7-mile Falls Trail loop, is a breathtaking, rugged journey through a National Natural Landmark featuring over 22 stunning waterfalls, including the 94-foot Ganoga Falls. It is often described as one of the best waterfall hikes in the eastern U.S., characterized by steep, narrow rocky paths, old-growth forests, and lush, dramatic scenery.

Key Details of the Hike:

• The Waterfall Experience: The trail system follows Kitchen Creek through deep gorges, offering views of 21-22 named waterfalls, ranging from 9 to 94 feet.
• Difficulty: This is a challenging hike. It is steep, often muddy, and narrow with many steps and exposed roots.
• Loop Options: The full loop is about 6.3–7 miles, to see the main attractions.
• Scenery: The area is characterized by ancient, old-growth timber and narrow rocky ravines.

Important Tips for Hikers:

• Prepare for Conditions: The trail can be slippery and wet; sturdy footwear is essential.
• Timing: The trail is popular, so it can get crowded. It is highly recommended to visit after recent rain for the best, most "raging" waterfall views.
• Other Advice: While beautiful, the steep, rocky terrain may be difficult for those with bad knees.

We have a 10 am start to accommodate people coming from VA. Please arrive 10 to 15 minutes before our start time.
I would recommend staying at a local hotel in Buckhorn or Lightstreet, PA
Meeting location Rt 118 Trailhead parking lot: 41.30030657190196, -76.27232964596247

Notes:

• RSVP to attend hike. If your plans change, update your RSVP by noon the day before so there is time to backfill your spot.
• Anyone who "No-Shows" will be logged and moved to "Not Going" for future hikes.
• The PATC requires each hiker to sign a liability waiver, which will be available at the trailhead
• Please check Meetup the night before. I will cancel the hike due to dangerous conditions.
• Attendance is limited at the discretion of our hike leaders. PATC rules do not permit children under 18 years to participate in a hike without a parent or guardian present.
• Potomac Appalachian Trail Club (PATC) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit. Club volunteers maintain over 1000 miles of trails in Pennsylvania, Maryland, West Virginia, and Virginia, including 240 miles of AT (and the section we will hike!). For more information about PATC, please visit https://www.patc.net/
• No dogs.