PA Waterfalls

Exploring Bushkill Falls in Pike County

A collage of five images encapsulates the diverse experiences at Bushkill Falls, Pike County, Pennsylvania. The top left image displays a robust observation deck overlooking a cascading waterfall. Adjacent to it on the right, the park's entrance building welcomes visitors with a large "Welcome to Bushkill Falls" sign. Below, a wooden walkway stretches over rushing waters, leading visitors through the tranquil environment. The bottom left shows a set of wooden stairs winding through the forest, offering a rustic path for exploration. Finally, a visitor in red, centered in the bottom right, photographs one of the park’s majestic waterfalls, highlighting the picturesque beauty and recreational opportunities available in this section of the Pocono Mountains, all embraced by the park's well-crafted wooden structures.

If you’re looking for information about visiting Bushkill Falls in Pike County, you’re in the right place!

The photograph captures one of the majestic waterfalls at Bushkill Falls in Pike County, Pennsylvania. A cascade of water tumbles down a rocky face, shrouded by the bare branches of trees in an early spring setting. The waterfall, in full spate, creates a veil-like appearance as it descends into a serene pool below. Surrounding vegetation clings to the edges of the moist cliffside, hinting at the lush greenery that will emerge. The image, taken with a slow shutter speed, gives the falling water a silky, smooth texture, contrasting with the crispness of the surrounding rocks and woods.

Bushkill Falls, often dubbed the “Niagara of Pennsylvania,” is a privately-owned nature park that features eight stunning waterfalls, accessible through a network of scenic trails and beautiful boardwalks that cater to all levels of hikers.

In the lush environment of the Pocono Mountains at Bushkill Falls, Pennsylvania, a wooden boardwalk and railing lead visitors along and over the bubbling rapids of Little Bushkill Creek. The hand-built structure harmonizes with the natural surroundings, curving around moss-covered boulders and vibrant green foliage. The creek cascades forcefully through a narrow channel in the rock, creating white water that adds dynamism to the tranquil forest scene. This picture captures the essence of the area, combining the rustic charm of the boardwalk with the wild beauty of the creek as it carves its way through the Upper Gorge.

Established in 1904, the Bushkill Falls has evolved to include amenities like a history museum, a café, and a gift shop, along with offering activities such as mini-golf, trout fishing, and panning for gemstones.

nside the Bushkill Falls museum in Pike County, Pennsylvania, an exhibit offers a glimpse into the local wildlife and history. The rustic interior features wood panel walls and a hardwood floor, contributing to the cabin-like atmosphere. A taxidermied black bear stands on its hind legs beside an informational display, adjacent to a large window with a view of one of the falls. A vintage wooden rocking chair, crafted from branches, sits in the foreground, inviting visitors to relax. Historical pricing signs for admission to the falls are displayed prominently, offering a nostalgic nod to the past of this privately-owned natural park, a treasured part of the Pocono Mountains landscape.

Directions | Hours | Admission Fees

Bushkill Falls is located at 138 Bushkill Falls Trail, Bushkill, PA 18324.

The park is open 7 days a week from April through October, with hours varying by day and season – please check the Bushkill Falls OFFICIAL WEBSITE for the most-up-to-date hours.

The entrance to Bushkill Falls, located in Pike County, Pennsylvania, is marked by a welcoming visitor center with a dark wooden façade and a gabled roof. Large white letters on the roof spell out "Welcome to Bushkill Falls," greeting guests as they arrive. In front of the building, wooden benches offer a place for visitors to rest. The center appears to house the souvenir shop, as indicated by the sign above the entrance, and provides amenities and information for those looking to explore the "Niagara of Pennsylvania" and its network of trails and scenic waterfalls within the beautiful Pocono Mountains.

Admission fees on weekdays | weekends are as follows (as of April 2024):

General: $17.00 | $20.00
Seniors (Ages 62 and older): $16.00 | $19.00
Children (Ages 4 – 10): $10.00 | $10.00
Children (Ages 3 and Younger): Free

A historical information sign at Bushkill Falls in Pike County, Pennsylvania, details the origins of the park. According to the sign, Charles E. Peters opened Bushkill Falls to the public in 1904, offering access via a swinging bridge near the top of the main falls. The sign explains that throughout his life, Mr. Peters developed the land by constructing rustic bridges and trails that lead to seven different waterfalls. The text proudly states that the falls are still owned by the Peters family, and emphasizes the ongoing efforts to maintain the natural beauty that has made Bushkill Falls a renowned scenic attraction in the Eastern United States, often referred to as "The Niagara of Pennsylvania." The sign is framed by a wooden structure, evoking the park's natural setting and commitment to preserving its rustic charm.

What You’ll See at Bushkill Falls

As you enter Bushkill Falls, the main attraction is the stunning 100-foot tall Bushkill Falls, a sight of immense natural beauty and power.

A dramatic aerial view of a high waterfall at Bushkill Falls, located in Pike County, Pennsylvania. This waterfall plummets down a vertical cliff, surrounded by dense pine trees and the emerging foliage of deciduous trees, suggesting the transition from spring to summer. A wooden boardwalk, part of the well-maintained trail system, can be seen hugging the side of the gorge, allowing visitors to safely experience the grandeur of the falls. The water, swollen perhaps by seasonal rains, rushes over the precipice with a brownish-white hue, evidence of its force and the minerals it carries, before crashing into the turbulent pool below. The forest around is a study in contrasts, with the evergreens providing year-round color against the more muted tones of the bare branches.

Surrounding this primary waterfall are seven smaller yet equally enchanting waterfalls, each contributing to the park’s serene atmosphere.

A visitor captures the beauty of Bridal Veil Falls at Bushkill Falls, Pike County, Pennsylvania, using a smartphone. The person, dressed in a red jacket and blue hat, stands on a rustic wooden observation platform that is part of the park’s extensive boardwalk system. The waterfall itself is a magnificent sheet of water cascading down a rock face, surrounded by the bare branches of trees in an early spring setting. This tranquil moment at the "Niagara of Pennsylvania" is emblematic of the park’s appeal, offering accessible, up-close encounters with nature’s splendor within the Pocono Mountains.

As you make your way around the trails at Bushkill Falls, you’re constantly immersed in the sound of of cascading water.

A serene view of Little Bushkill Creek as it flows through a rocky gorge at Bushkill Falls in Pike County, Pennsylvania. A wooden boardwalk with a rustic railing crosses the creek, connecting two platforms that provide visitors with vantage points to enjoy the surrounding natural beauty. The boardwalk is nestled among the towering cliffs and lush greenery of rhododendrons, typical of the Pocono Mountains region. The tranquil yet dynamic scene captures the essence of Bushkill Falls, known as the "Niagara of Pennsylvania," with its well-preserved environment and accessible paths that invite exploration and appreciation of the area's scenic waterfalls and woodlands.

The trails at Bushkill Falls are designed with visitors in mind, ranging from short, easy walks to more rigorous hikes that offer up-close views of the waterfalls from various angles.

A rustic wooden staircase, part of the extensive boardwalk system at Bushkill Falls in Pike County, Pennsylvania, descends through a forested area towards a viewing platform near the Bridesmaid Falls. The handcrafted railings of the stairs, composed of branches and timber, lead the eye downwards toward the waterfall, which gushes energetically into a rock-strewn stream below. The falls are set against a backdrop of layered shale and sandstone, typical of the geological formations in the Pocono Mountains. Overhead, the canopy is sparsely leaved, as it is early spring pictured in the photo.

These paths lead to well-positioned viewing platforms that allow for spectacular photography opportunities and moments of peaceful reflection.

The scene is set at Bushkill Falls in Pike County, Pennsylvania, where a wooden observation deck provides a close-up view of one of the park's prominent waterfalls. The deck, part of a comprehensive network of well-maintained boardwalks, extends over a turbulent stream, leading visitors toward a two-tiered viewing platform. This structure sits adjacent to the waterfall, allowing visitors to feel the mist and hear the thunderous sound of the water as it crashes into the basin below. Lush greenery and mossy rocks frame the waterfall, highlighting the natural beauty and forested environment of the Pocono Mountains.

Apart from hiking, Bushkill Falls offers a variety of other activities.

A taxidermy exhibit at Bushkill Falls in Pike County, Pennsylvania, features black bears in a naturalistic forest setting. A life-size adult bear stands on its hind legs, while another forages on the ground. The scene also includes smaller woodland creatures like squirrels, set against a backdrop that mimics the dense woods of the Pocono Mountains. This display aims to educate visitors about the local wildlife and their natural habitats, enhancing the experience at this attraction known for its natural beauty and hiking trails. The realism of the exhibit brings the outdoors inside, providing a close-up view of the animals that might be encountered in the wild areas of Bushkill Falls, the "Niagara of Pennsylvania."

The park includes a wildlife center, a history museum, a snack bar, and a gift shop.

The entrance to "The Story of Bushkill Falls" museum at Bushkill Falls in Pike County, Pennsylvania, is a quaint wooden cabin with a moss-covered roof. A sign above the entrance invites visitors to discover the history of this natural attraction, often referred to as the "Niagara of Pennsylvania." The doorway is open, suggesting a welcoming atmosphere where one can learn about the falls, which have been a part of the Pocono Mountains' landscape and privately owned since 1904. Flanked by lush rhododendron bushes, the entrance beckons guests to step inside and explore the legacy and lore of Bushkill Falls and its surroundings.

Additionally, there are facilities for mini-golf, trout fishing, and panning for gemstones, providing entertainment for all ages.

A peaceful fishing pond at Bushkill Falls in Pike County, Pennsylvania, reflects the surrounding landscape of leafless trees and evergreens. The calm water mirrors the overcast sky, while wooden benches along the grassy shore invite visitors to relax and enjoy the tranquility of the area.

These amenities, however, are outside the waterfalls area and do require separate fees.

An interactive gem mining attraction at Bushkill Falls in Pike County, Pennsylvania invites visitors to experience the thrill of prospecting. The setup includes wooden sluice stations where participants can wash sediment in sieves to discover real gemstones. Instructional signs and colorful illustrations provide guidance on how to mine and identify various stones. In the background stands the Bushkill Falls Mining Co. Maze, an outdoor wooden maze adventure, adding to the family-friendly recreational activities available at this destination. The area is characterized by its rustic charm, with gravel grounds and surrounding trees typical of the Pocono Mountains, enhancing the outdoor experience of park visitors.

Your admission fee to Bushkill Falls not only grants you access to these magnificent trails and natural sights but also supports the maintenance and preservation of this unique network of bridges and boardwalks.

The photograph showcases a section of the wooden boardwalk at Bushkill Falls in Pike County, Pennsylvania, as it meanders through a rich, woodland environment. The boardwalk, built with weathered wood and lined with gnarled branch railings, creates a rustic pathway that leads adventurers over the energetic Little Bushkill Creek. The creek, filled with frothy, white water, rushes beneath the walkway, providing a soundtrack of nature’s relentless motion. Rhododendron bushes spill over the edges of the rock faces, adding splashes of green to the scene, as the boardwalk invites exploration deeper into the serene Pocono Mountains landscape.

This ensures that the gorge and its steep cliffs remain accessible and safe for future visitors.

A steep wooden staircase at Bushkill Falls in Pike County, Pennsylvania, rises through the forest, providing a path for visitors to navigate the rugged terrain. Each step, flanked by natural branch railings, invites hikers to ascend amidst the tall, leafless trees of the Pocono Mountains, possibly during the early spring or late autumn. The staircase blends with the environment, featuring wood that mirrors the surrounding trees and forest floor covered with fallen leaves, embodying the park's commitment to creating access while preserving the area's natural beauty. This structure is indicative of the well-maintained facilities that enhance the experience for visitors of all fitness levels at the "Niagara of Pennsylvania."

When planning a visit, it’s ideal to allow at least 2 hours to explore all the trails and enjoy each waterfall.

A wooden boardwalk leads visitors up close to the dynamic Bridal Veil Falls at Bushkill Falls in Pike County, Pennsylvania. The boardwalk, with its rustic railings, allows for a safe and immersive viewing experience of the waterfall's powerful cascade. Water rushes down over mossy rocks and into a lively stream that runs alongside the path. The scene is framed by the striated rock face on one side and a variety of trees, some bare and others evergreen, on the other, depicting a cool, late autumn or early spring day in the Pocono Mountains.

The park’s layout encourages visitors to wander and discover new views around every bend, making it a full day’s adventure.

A sturdy wooden boardwalk at Bushkill Falls in Pike County, Pennsylvania, winds its way through a lush landscape. It crosses over a lively, dark stream that runs rapidly beneath, frothing as it interacts with the natural rocky barriers. The railings of the boardwalk, coupled with the moss-covered boulders and the mature, verdant trees that surround it, create an immersive outdoor experience.

Final Thoughts

Bushkill Falls is not just a destination but a full-fledged waterfalls experience.

The main waterfall at Bushkill Falls in Pike County, Pennsylvania, cascades powerfully down a rocky cliff surrounded by the lush greenery of the Pocono Mountains. The waterfall is viewed from a distance, revealing its impressive height and the misty spray at its base. Wooden observation decks are visible on either side of the falls, providing visitors with safe and strategic viewpoints to witness this natural wonder. The scene captures the dynamic beauty and the serene ambiance of the park, which is renowned for its series of stunning waterfalls and the rustic charm of the well-maintained wooden boardwalks that grant access to these natural spectacles.

It offers a chance to connect with nature, enjoy physical activity, and relax in a beautiful setting.

A wooden walkway runs parallel to the rushing waters of a gorge at Bushkill Falls, Pike County, Pennsylvania. The walkway, supported by sturdy beams and with a robust railing for safety, allows visitors to closely observe and appreciate the natural flow and power of the creek below. Flanked by rich, green rhododendron bushes and a backdrop of tall trees, the scene captures the essence of the Pocono Mountains' wilderness. This trail is part of the park's system of boardwalks, designed to provide secure and scenic access to the various natural attractions within the "Niagara of Pennsylvania," while preserving the integrity of the environment.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual visitor, the beauty of both the waterfalls and the boardwalks at Bushkill Falls make it a must-see location in Pennsylvania’s Pocono Mountains!

The photo shows a part of the boardwalk at Bushkill Falls in Pike County, Pennsylvania, offering a scenic route along the rushing waters of Pennell Falls. The walkway, edged with wooden railings, clings to the side of the gorge, providing a secure vantage point from which to view the waterfall's power and the surrounding woods. The water foams white as it cascades over rocks, contrasting with the deep greens of rhododendron bushes and the towering trees that line the bank. This natural walkway through the Pocono Mountains highlights the park's commitment to preserving the rugged beauty of the landscape while making it accessible to visitors of all fitness levels.

Nearby Attractions

Raymondskill Falls in Pike County is billed as the “tallest waterfall in Pennsylvania”, at 178 feet.

Raymondskill Falls in Pennsylvania — Upper and middle tiers of Raymondskill Falls in Pike County.

Dingmans Falls in Pike County checks in at 130 feet tall, good enough for the title of “the second-tallest waterfall in PA.”

Dingmans Falls in Pike County, Pennsylvania

Upper Indian Ladders Falls in Pike County is a 30 foot-tall, multi-tiered waterfall along Upper Hornbecks Creek, located within the 77,000-acre Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.

A collage of four photos capturing the beauty and experience of visiting Upper Indian Ladders Falls in Pike County, Pennsylvania. The top left and top right images showcase the stunning waterfall with water cascading over rocky tiers, surrounded by a dense forest with scattered fallen branches. The bottom left image features a steep wooden staircase with metal railings, leading down through the forest to the falls. The bottom right image shows the trailhead sign for Upper Hornbecks Creek, displaying a detailed map and safety information for hikers exploring the area. — Scenes from Upper Indian Ladders Falls.

Resica Falls is a stunning roadside waterfall located 12 miles north of Stroudsburg.

This collage of five photos provides a comprehensive view of Resica Falls within the Scout Reservation in Monroe County, Pennsylvania. The centerpiece is the broad, tiered waterfall, its white streams rushing over rocky ledges, surrounded by a forest of bare trees with a bridge visible in the distance. Adjacent to this are images of the surrounding natural environment and signage that guide and inform visitors. One sign provides a welcome and lists the regulations for visitors, including the hours of public access from dawn to dusk and the prohibition of dogs. Another warns against going beyond the railings and cables for safety. The entrance sign to the scenic overlook, framed by wooden posts, marks the starting point for visitors to explore the falls. Together, these images encapsulate the experience of visiting Resica Falls, emphasizing the natural beauty and the importance of safety and preservation in this outdoor setting. — Scenes from Resica Falls.

Sawkill and Savantine Falls are a pair of picturesque but seldom-seen waterfalls in the Pike County portions of the Delaware State Forest.

Collage of four images featuring a hiker at Sawkill and Savantine Falls in the Delaware State Forest, Pike County, Pennsylvania. The images depict the hiker at various viewpoints of the cascading waterfalls. The top left and right photos show him observing the falls from different angles, with the water spilling over rocky terraces amidst a forest setting. The bottom left photo captures the hiker in front of a broad, flowing curtain of water, and the bottom right shows him from behind, looking out at a wide, multi-tiered waterfall. Each scene is framed by the rugged beauty of the forest, showcasing the tranquil and picturesque environment of these waterfalls. — Scenes from Sawkill and Savantine Falls.

Housed in a stunning 1904 neo-classical mansion in Milford, the The Columns Museum features two floors brimming with artifacts and memorabilia that chronicle the rich tapestry of Pike County’s past.

A collage of four photos taken at the Columns Museum in Pike County, PA. The top left photo shows the museum's exterior, a stately white building with large columns, and a sign indicating it is the home of the Pike County Historical Society and the Lincoln Flag. The top right photo features the display of the famous "bloody Lincoln flag," believed to have cushioned President Lincoln's head after he was shot. The bottom left photo shows a collection of military uniforms and artifacts, representing the contributions of local veterans. The bottom right photo displays a room filled with historical artifacts, including a cabinet with dishes, a grandfather clock, and a portrait of Charles Sanders Peirce along with his personal effects. This collage highlights the museum's diverse exhibits and rich historical collections. — Scenes from the Columns Museum.

The Pocono Indian Museum in Monroe County highlights the rich history and culture of the Lenape, also known as the Delaware Indians, the original inhabitants of the Pocono Mountains.

A collage of four photos taken at the Pocono Indian Museum in Monroe County, PA. The top left image shows the front entrance of the museum, a white colonial-style building with columns and a ramp leading up to the porch. The top right image displays an interior exhibit featuring Native American artifacts, including a mounted deer head, traditional weapons, and tools. The bottom left image showcases a green exhibit with stone tools and weapons such as an atlatl, spear thrower, post mold, and awl, along with illustrative drawings. The bottom right image captures the gift shop, highlighting a variety of Native American-themed jewelry, dreamcatchers, and clothing, arranged on shelves and racks in a rustic setting. — Scenes from the Pocono Indian Museum.

The Frazetta Art Museum in Monroe County houses the largest collection of Frank Frazetta original paintings and drawings in the world, Frazetta being considered the “Godfather of fantasy art.”

A collage of four photos taken at the Frazetta Art Museum in Monroe County, PA. The top left image shows a wall with framed fantasy artworks, including colorful paintings and detailed illustrations by Frank Frazetta. The top right image captures two framed paintings of a powerful warrior statue set against an ancient cityscape, showcasing Frazetta's talent in creating dramatic scenes. The bottom left image features a row of framed paintings depicting dynamic and mythical scenes, complemented by sculptures and decorative items arranged below on a shelf. The bottom right image displays the exterior of the museum, highlighting a rustic building with a red-tiled roof, an arched entrance, and lush surrounding greenery, creating an inviting and picturesque setting. — Scenes from the Frazetta Art Museum.

Find even more great spots to explore in Pike County and all across Pennsylvania with the interactive PA Bucket List Travel Map!

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