Waterfalls in the Poconos: Best Hikes for Early Spring
When the snow starts to melt in the Pocono Mountains, the waterfalls wake up. All that ice and snowpack from December through March has to go somewhere, and where it goes is straight over the region's most spectacular falls.
Late March and early April is prime waterfall season in the Poconos. The water volume is at its highest. The trails are opening up after winter closures. And the crowds that pack these spots in summer and fall haven't arrived yet.
If you're visiting the Pocono Mountains in early spring and you want to do something beyond the cabin, a waterfall hike should be at the top of your list.
Bushkill Falls
Bushkill Falls is called the Niagara of Pennsylvania, and while that comparison is generous, the place is genuinely impressive. It's a series of eight waterfalls connected by a network of trails and wooden boardwalks through a hemlock gorge. The main falls drop over 100 feet and hit their peak flow in early spring when snowmelt feeds the creek. The trail system offers multiple loops ranging from easy (15 to 20 minutes to the main overlook) to moderate (a full 2-mile loop that visits all eight falls).
What to know: Bushkill Falls is a privately operated park with seasonal hours and an admission fee. They typically open for the season in April, but check their website for exact opening dates. The park is approximately 30 to 35 minutes from the Camelback Mountain area, making it a half-day trip from most Pocono Pads properties.
Dingmans Falls
Dingmans Falls is part of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area and is free to visit. The main waterfall is over 130 feet tall, making it one of the tallest waterfalls in Pennsylvania. The trail to the falls is a well-maintained boardwalk, about half a mile each way. It's flat, accessible, and family-friendly. Along the way, you'll also pass Silverthread Falls, a thinner but equally beautiful cascade.
What to know: Dingmans Falls is about 40 to 45 minutes from the Camelback area. It's a day trip from your Pocono Pads cabin, not a quick stop. But the drive takes you through beautiful Delaware Water Gap scenery that's worth the trip on its own. The visitor center and boardwalk typically open in early to mid-April.
Raymondskill Falls
The tallest waterfall in Pennsylvania at approximately 150 feet, Raymondskill Falls sits within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area near Milford. The falls cascade in three tiers through a rocky gorge, and the viewing platforms give you angles on all three sections. The hike is short (about a quarter mile from the parking area) but includes steep stairs. Wear sturdy shoes. In early spring, the trail can be muddy and the stairs can be slippery.
What to know: Raymondskill is near Dingmans Falls, so combining both in one day trip makes sense. The area is about 45cto 50 minutes from Camelback. Free to visit.
Resica Falls
A smaller and lesser-known waterfall, Resica Falls is on Bushkill Creek near the Boy Scouts of America's Resica Falls Scout Reservation. The falls are modest in size but surrounded by beautiful forest. In spring, the creek runs strong and the setting feels remote despite being relatively accessible. This is not a major tourist destination, which is part of its appeal. If you're looking for a quiet spot to sit by a waterfall without crowds, Resica Falls delivers.
Tips for Spring Waterfall Hikes in the Poconos
Check opening dates. Several waterfall parks are seasonal and don't open until April. Check websites before driving out.
Wear waterproof boots. Spring trails in the Poconos are muddy. Boardwalks near falls can be wet and slippery. Waterproof footwear with good traction is not optional.
Bring layers. March and early April temperatures in the Poconos can range from 30s in the morning to 50s in the afternoon. Layers let you adapt.
Bring a camera. Spring waterfall photos with high water volume and fresh green growth are stunning. Early morning light is best.
Pack a picnic. Some parks have picnic areas near the trailhead. A thermos of coffee and sandwiches from the cabin kitchen turns a hike into a morning event.
Make It a Weekend
A waterfall day pairs perfectly with a Pocono cabin weekend. Hike in the morning, explore in the afternoon, cook dinner at the cabin, and end the night in the hot tub or by the fire pit.
Pocono Pads vacation homes are your base camp. Browse and book at poconopads.com.
