Have you ever dreamed of a place with lush greenery, waterfalls, and peaceful lakes? Welcome to Ricketts Glen State Park, a gem in Pennsylvania’s Endless Mountains. It’s a paradise for those who love adventure, nature, or just need a break from daily life. But what makes Ricketts Glen stand out? Let’s explore the top spots and activities that will amaze you and make you want to see more of this Pennsylvania treasure.
Key Takeaways
- Ricketts Glen State Park covers over 13,000 acres of pristine forests, lakes, and campgrounds in Pennsylvania.
- The park features more than 20 natural waterfalls, with the majestic 94-foot Ganoga Falls being the tallest.
- Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, swimming, kayaking, and wildlife viewing.
- The park offers over 26 miles of trails, catering to both rugged treks and family-friendly hikes.
- Scenic vistas, such as the Valley View Vista and the Grand View Trail, provide stunning panoramic views.
Exploring the Natural Beauty of Ricketts Glen
Ricketts Glen State Park is a hidden treasure in northeastern Pennsylvania. It covers over 13,000 acres across three counties. It’s a paradise for those who love the outdoors and nature.
Park Overview and Location
The park is in the heart of the Pocono Mountains. It offers a mix of waterfalls, lakes, and forests. Visitors can enjoy it all year, with each season offering something special.
Best Time to Visit
Summer is great for water sports like swimming and fishing. It’s also perfect for hiking. Fall is famous for its beautiful leaves, attracting many visitors.
Park Facilities and Amenities
- Campgrounds with over 120 tent and trailer sites, some available year-round
- Picnic areas with tables, charcoal grills, and nearby hiking trails
- A 600-foot beach along Lake Jean, open from 8 a.m. to sunset for swimming and sunbathing
- Boating opportunities on Lake Jean, including rowboats, canoes, paddleboats, and kayaks
- Ski trails and access to nearby winter sports resorts in the Pocono Mountains
Ricketts Glen State Park is perfect for anyone who loves nature. It offers peace, adventure, and fun for families. It’s a must-see in Pennsylvania.
“Ricketts Glen State Park is a true gem of natural beauty, offering a diverse landscape of towering waterfalls, serene lakes, and lush forests for visitors to explore and enjoy.”
The Famous Falls Trail: A Hiker's Paradise
Nestled in Ricketts Glen State Park, Pennsylvania, is the famous Falls Trail. It’s a dream for hikers. This 7.2-mile loop trail shows off over 20 waterfalls, each one more stunning than the last.
Trail Difficulty and Safety Tips
The Falls Trail is moderately challenging. It has steep inclines and rocky paths. It’s important to wear sturdy boots and trekking poles.
The trail can be slippery, especially when it’s wet or icy. So, it’s crucial to be careful and watchful. For a safer experience, Valley to Summit offers guided tours. They provide expert guidance and insights.
Notable Waterfalls Along the Route
- Ganoga Falls: The tallest waterfall in the park, standing at an impressive 94 feet.
- Mohawk Falls: A stunning 37-foot cascade that cascades over a series of rock formations.
- Erie Falls: Reaching a height of 47 feet, this waterfall is a true gem along the trail.
Each waterfall has a wooden sign. This makes it easy for hikers to find and enjoy these natural wonders.
Photography Opportunities
The Falls Trail is perfect for photographers. It offers many chances to capture the beauty of the waterfalls. Oneida Falls and Delaware Falls are especially beautiful, with their dramatic drops and calm pools.
Hikers should take their time. Explore different viewpoints and enjoy the stunning scenery at every turn.
“The Falls Trail at Ricketts Glen State Park is a true gem for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The sheer number and beauty of the waterfalls along the route make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Pennsylvania’s outdoor wonders.”
Lake Jean Recreation Area
Lake Jean is the heart of Ricketts Glen State Park’s fun activities. It’s a beautiful lake where only electric motors are allowed. This makes it perfect for peaceful activities like kayaking and canoeing.
In the summer, a 600-foot sandy beach is open for swimming and sunbathing. The beach has picnic tables for relaxing and eating. Fishing enthusiasts will find warm-water game fish in the lake, ready to catch all year, even in winter.
The park offers boat rentals from Memorial Day to Labor Day. You can rent rowboats, canoes, kayaks, paddleboats, and paddleboards. A snack stand near the beach has refreshments and snacks, keeping you energized.
| Activity | Details |
|---|---|
| Swimming | Enjoy the 600-foot sandy beach open from late-May to mid-September, with designated swimming areas. |
| Boating | Rent rowboats, canoes, kayaks, paddleboats, and paddleboards from Memorial Day to Labor Day. |
| Fishing | Lake Jean is stocked with warm-water game fish, offering year-round fishing, including ice fishing in winter. |
| Picnicking | Picnic tables line the shoreline, providing scenic spots for relaxation and dining. |
Lake Jean in Ricketts Glen State Park is great for a calm day on the water or a lively beach day. It offers a wide range of Lake Jean, swimming, boating, fishing, and beach activities for everyone to enjoy.
Ricketts Glen State Park, Pennsylvania: Best Things to Do - Top Picks
Hiking and Trail Systems
Ricketts Glen State Park is famous for its Falls Trail. But it also has many other hiking trails to discover. The Evergreen Trail is a 1-mile loop that shows off Adams Falls and the forest.
For a quieter adventure, try the Little Cherry Run Trail in the park’s eastern section. It’s perfect for those who love the wilderness.
Water Activities
Lake Jean is the heart of Ricketts Glen, covering 245 acres. It’s great for swimming, fishing, or boating. The 600-foot beach is perfect for a day by the water.
Whether you want to relax or have fun, Ricketts Glen has it all for water lovers.
Wildlife Viewing
Ricketts Glen is home to many animals. You can see white-tailed deer and birds as you hike. The park’s trails and areas are full of wildlife.
For a closer look, head to the eastern section. The Little Cherry Run Trail is quieter and offers a chance to see more animals.
“Over 10 years of photographing Ricketts Glen State Park, I struggled to pick a personal favorite waterfall out of the 24 officially named larger waterfalls.”
Camping and Overnight Accommodations
Ricketts Glen State Park has many camping and lodging options for outdoor lovers. You can choose between setting up a tent or staying in a cozy cabin. The park has something for everyone.
Campgrounds at Ricketts Glen
The park has 120 campsites for tents and trailers, open from April to December. These sites have hot showers, flush toilets, and shaded areas. They also have gravel parking spurs for convenience.
For a more luxurious stay, there are five deluxe cottages. They can hold up to five people and have modern appliances like electric ranges and microwaves.
The park also has a group tenting area for 240 people. It has picnic tables, water, and flush toilets, open from mid-April to mid-October. There’s even a campground host position with electric and water service, but no septic.
Nearby Lodging Options
If you prefer more comfort, Benton has bed and breakfasts and local lodging. These places offer a cozy stay close to the park’s wonders.
It’s wise to book your stay in advance, especially during busy times. This way, you can get the accommodations you want.
| Camping Facilities at Ricketts Glen | Nearby Lodging Options |
|---|---|
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Whether you want to camp, stay in a cabin, or enjoy a B&B, Ricketts Glen and nearby areas have it all. They offer a variety of camping and overnight accommodations to make your visit unforgettable.
Seasonal Activities and Events
Ricketts Glen State Park is a treasure trove of seasonal activities and events all year round. It caters to everyone, whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or just want to enjoy nature. Each season brings its own unique charm to the park.
Summer Activities
In the summer, the park buzzes with outdoor fun. Hikers can tackle the famous Falls Trail, taking in the stunning waterfalls and greenery. For those who love water, Lake Jean is perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing.
Camping and picnics are also big hits in the summer. They offer a chance to connect with nature and make unforgettable memories.
Fall Foliage Viewing
As fall arrives, Ricketts Glen turns into a colorful wonderland. The Grand View Trail and other paths offer amazing views of the changing leaves. The park’s beauty is at its peak during this time, attracting visitors from everywhere.
Winter Recreation
Winter at Ricketts Glen is magical, with snow covering the landscape. It’s a great time for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing on Lake Jean. The park also hosts special events, so check the website for updates.
No matter the season, Ricketts Glen State Park has something for everyone. It’s a perfect place for outdoor lovers and nature enthusiasts. Plan your visit to see the park’s beauty in every season.
Scenic Viewpoints and Photography Spots
Ricketts Glen State Park in Pennsylvania is a paradise for nature lovers and photographers. As you walk the lush trails, you’ll find many scenic spots. These will amaze you.
The Valley View Vista on Old Bulldozer Road Trail is breathtaking. It offers a 40-mile view of the mountains. It’s perfect for landscape photos.
The Falls Trail is a dream for hikers. It has 22 waterfalls, each with its own beauty. It’s a great place for nature photos.
The Grand View Trail may not have wide views, but it’s full of plants and colors. It’s great for photos of the park’s plants and animals.
For water scenes, try Lake Jean and the park’s eastern areas. They offer calm spots for photos. These places are perfect for nature photography.
“Ricketts Glen State Park is a true photographer’s paradise, with an abundance of scenic viewpoints and diverse photo opportunities waiting to be discovered.” – John Doe, Landscape Photographer
Ricketts Glen State Park is unforgettable for anyone who loves nature or photography. Explore its trails, find hidden spots, and capture the stunning views. These moments will stay with you forever.
Family-Friendly Activities and Areas
Ricketts Glen State Park has lots of fun activities for families. The Evergreen Trail is great for families with kids. It has a short loop and a beautiful view of Adams Falls.
The park’s Lake Jean has a safe beach area. Families can swim, picnic, and spend time together here.
Kid-Friendly Trails
The park has trails for all skill levels. The Highland Trail is 3.2 miles long and is easy to walk. It’s perfect for families with young kids.
Picnic Areas and Playgrounds
Ricketts Glen State Park has many picnic areas. Some have playgrounds, making it ideal for family outings. These spots are beautiful and comfortable for meals and relaxation.
