The best waterfall hikes and walks in Ricketts Glen State Park

Ricketts Glen State Park is renowned for its Glens Natural Area, a National Natural Landmark featuring 21 to 24 wild, free-flowing waterfalls. The most prominent of these is Ganoga Falls, which stands at an impressive 94 feet.

The park offers seasonal beauty throughout the year. Spring is ideal for powerful water flow over the falls due to snowmelt, while autumn provides stunning fall foliage. Summer is also popular, but be aware that the Falls Trail System can be very busy. Winter offers unique ice hiking opportunities, though specialized gear is required, and the Falls Trail is generally closed to regular hikers during this time.

Yes, while the main Falls Trail can be challenging, there are easier options. For instance, the Ganoga View Trail is an easy 1.5 km route. Another family-friendly option is the Delaware Falls – B. Reynolds Falls loop from Benton, which is an easy 5.2 km trail.

The full loop of the Falls Trail System is considered moderate to difficult, spanning 7.2 miles with steep descents, rocky terrain, and potentially slippery conditions. A shorter, popular 3.2-mile loop combines sections of the Highland Trail with Glen Leigh and Ganoga Glen trails, showcasing 18 spectacular waterfalls. Proper footwear and good physical condition are essential for this trail.

Given the rocky and often slippery terrain, especially near the waterfalls, proper footwear with good traction is crucial. Bringing water, snacks, and dressing in layers is also recommended. Depending on the season, insect repellent might be useful.

While Ricketts Glen State Park is generally dog-friendly, dogs are not permitted on the Falls Trail System. However, they are welcome on other trails within the park, such as the Evergreen Trail or the Beach Trail along Lake Jean, provided they are on a leash.

Beyond the waterfalls, you can explore Lake Jean, a 245-acre lake offering swimming, fishing, and boating. The park also features old-growth timber and various viewpoints like Grand View, providing scenic vistas of the surrounding landscape.

The most popular waterfall hiking route, the Ricketts Glen Falls Trail Loop, is approximately 10.5 km (6.5 miles) and typically takes about 3 hours and 10 minutes to complete. This duration can vary based on hiking pace and time spent enjoying the waterfalls.

The waterfall trails in Ricketts Glen State Park are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 50 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the stunning natural beauty, the abundance of waterfalls, and the unique experience of navigating the glens.

Yes, many of the trails are designed as loops to maximize waterfall viewing. The Ricketts Glen Falls Trail Loop is a prime example, navigating through the Glens Natural Area to showcase numerous cascades. Another popular option is the B. Reynolds Falls – Delaware Falls loop from Ricketts Glen State Park, which also offers views of multiple cascades.

Due to the steep, rocky, and often wet terrain, hikers should exercise caution. It's advisable to wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support. Always stay on marked trails and be mindful of slippery surfaces, especially near the falls. During winter, the Falls Trail is closed to regular hikers due to ice, requiring specialized gear and experience for ice hiking.

There are over a dozen dedicated waterfall hiking trails in Ricketts Glen State Park, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. These trails allow visitors to explore the park's extensive network of glens and witness its numerous cascades.