Aptly named the “Niagara of Pennsylvania,” Bushkill Falls offers just about everything for families and adventurers alike. Well-built walkways and safety railings bring you face-to-face with a series of eight different waterfalls, all intricately linked together by an excellent network of hiking trails
Located in the Keystone State and nestled in the Pocono Mountains, this site offers fabulous views, a range of hikes, fishing, and birdwatching. Beyond the natural beauty of this special place, there are also a number of interesting sites to visit. Boasting a Native American exhibit, family-friendly activities ranging from mini-golf to mining for gemstones, mazes, and paddleboat rentals, this spot has plenty to enjoy. (Note that the mini-golf and paddle boats are cash only, so don’t forget your wallet.)
One of the eight water features at the headwaters of Bushkill Creek, some towering over 100 feet.
Entrance Fees
Entrance fees range from $16.50 for adults on weekends, to free for children under 3 years old. To see specific ticket prices, you can view park entrance fees here.
Water flowing below the raised bridge system leading to the falls.
Bushkill Falls Trails
The most popular activity at Bushkill Falls is by far the great hiking. With trails ranging from 15 minutes to 2 hours, there are breathtaking options for just about every hiker. Trails are categorized by color, which indicates not only their difficulty but also the approximate time to completion.
- Red Trail: The Red Trail is approximately 2 miles long, takes about 2 hours to hike, and allows avid hikers to see all eight waterfalls. This is the only trail that takes hikers to some of the most remote locations, like Bridal Veil Falls. This path has lots of stairs — so you’ll have no problem getting in your 10,000 steps! It should be noted that the Red Trail is not good for strollers or wheelchairs due to the number of stairs.
- Blue Trail: Takes hikers to see Pennell Falls, Peter’s Corner and Laurel Glen. This trail is fairly difficult and takes approximately one hour.
- Yellow Trail: The most popular trail typically takes hikers about 45 minutes. Along the way, you’ll see both the top and bottom of several of the more popular falls, with views of the Main Falls.
- Green Trail: The most accessible falls trail is a loop that takes families about 15 minutes with no climbing. There are steps, however, so wheelchairs and strollers will need to stay behind. This trail also gives hikers a beautiful view of the Main Falls.
Most of the trails are steep and contain steps, so wearing comfortable shoes or hiking boots is always recommended. Additionally, there are railings on nearly all walkways, making hikes more accessible for young children.
A family hard at work finding gemstones in Bushkill, PA.
Things to Do Near Bushkill Falls
If hiking isn’t for you, Bushkill, PA still has plenty to offer! From the gift shop, historical exhibits, and activities, you’re sure to stay busy all day long!
- Mining for Gemstones: Everyone will have fun pretending to be a miner for a day. Learn the proper techniques to find gemstones in a stream of silt and sediment from the Pocono mountains, miners can purchase a bag of “mining rough” for $10.00, and then sift through the treasures in a trough of circulating water. You’ll uncover a range of gemstones to identify and then take home!
- Miniature Golf: Environmentally-designed to fit in with the picturesque landscape, this rustic mini-golf course of 18 holes is set next to a small lake and features replicas of popular attractions at the falls. For just $5.00 you can have an afternoon of laughs and keep your signature golf ball!
Bushkill Falls was first opened to the public in 1904, complete with a swinging bridge that went right over the head of the Main Falls.
- History Brought to Life: For the history buffs, there are a number of exhibits to showcase the rich history of Bushkill. With three exhibits to choose from, you can explore the local wildlife, the Native American exhibit showing the history of the Lenapes, and the “Story of Bushkill,” which highlights the opening of Bushkill Falls to the public in 1904.
- Bushkill Falls Mining Company Maze: One of the newest attractions at Bushkill offers a chance for families to roll up their sleeves and get competitive. Each participant is given a passport and must find letter checkpoints in the maze spelling out the word “G-O-L-D” before finding their way to an exit. Maze runners might even win prizes!
- Lunch & Snacks: There are a range of food options offered from the snack bar including pizza, burgers, wraps, and sandwiches. After lunch, if you’re craving something sweet, the Fudge Kitchen serves up a delectable range of fudge and fresh funnel cakes. If you’re visiting on a hot day, the signature Hershey’s hand-dipped ice creams, ice cream sodas, and sundaes will keep you cool.
- Playground: For families with young children, day trips to Bushkill Falls aren’t complete without a romp on the playground! The playground structure is a system designed to comply with the industry’s highest standards of safety, structural integrity, and accessibility.
The banks of Bushkill Falls are lined with lush forests, mosses, and plants that turn brilliant colors in the fall.
Bushkill, PA Weather
Known as a perfect summer spot, most visitors are pleasantly surprised to find the weather at Bushkill stays pleasant into the fall. With temperatures lowering and leaves beginning to turn brilliant reds, oranges, and yellows in October, the fall foliage is one highlight you won’t want to miss!