Exploring Dry Run Falls in the Loyalsock State Forest

Incredible fall foliage around Dry Run Falls in the Loyalsock State Forest.

Dry Run Falls is one of the most picturesque waterfalls in the Loyalsock State Forest.

And unlike nearby Ketchum Run Falls, which requires a bit of a hike to get to, you can literally drive right up to Dry Run Falls.

Fall foliage at Ketchum Run Falls.
Fall foliage at Ketchum Run Falls.

Yet despite being a roadside waterfall, some folks have a hard time finding Dry Run Falls.

So that is the purpose of this write-up: to show you exactly how to find this roadside gem, as well as give you an idea of what to expect in the different seasons.


Driving Directions

How to Find Dry Run Falls in the Loyalsock State Forest

  1. Turn off of Route 87 onto Dry Run Road.

    This intersection is just south of the village of Hillsgrove.A map to Dry Run Falls in the Loyalsock State Forest.

  2. Travel 2 miles east on Dry Run Road.

    Dry Run Falls and the parking area will be on your right hand side.The parking area at Dry Run Falls.

  3. Arrive at Dry Run Falls.

    GPS Coordinates: 41.430364, -76.670639The proximity of the parking are to Dry Run Falls.


Visiting Dry Run Falls in the Winter

An icy scene at Dry Run Falls in Sullivan County, PA.
An icy scene at Dry Run Falls in Sullivan County, PA.

Winter waterfalls aren’t everyone’s cup of tea, but if they’re YOUR cup of tea, then Dry Run Falls gives you a lot to look at.

Just keep this in mind: Dry Run Road is a “no winter maintenance” road.

Use caution and common sense if you attempt to drive in to see this in the winter.

Sometimes you’ll catch the falls with a little bit of ice.

Snow and ice at Dry Run Falls in the Loyalsock State Forest
Snow and ice at Dry Run Falls in the Loyalsock State Forest

And other times the falls will be almost entirely encased in ice.

A winter scene at Dry Run Falls near Hillsgrove, PA
A winter scene at Dry Run Falls near Hillsgrove, PA

Spring and Summer at Dry Run Falls

A summer view of Dry Run Falls in Sullivan County, PA.
A summer view of the falls.

The emerging foliage and green mosses and ferns around Dry Run Falls give the area around the falls an almost emerald glow.


Fall Foliage at Dry Run Falls

Autumn comes to Dry Run Falls in the Loyalsock State Forest.
Autumn in the Loyalsock State Forest.

One of the most popular times to visit Dry Run Falls is during the “leaf peeping” season, and the Loyalsock State Forest does not disappoint.

A side view of Dry Run Falls.
A side view of Dry Run Falls.

The water is usually low enough on Dry Run this time of year to allow you to freely cross back and forth below the falls, taking in the view from different angles.

October at Dry Run Falls in Sullivan County, PA.
October in Sullivan County, PA.

Final Thoughts

Whether this is your final destination, or you’re on your way to another nearby waterfall such as Rusty Run Falls or perhaps the waterfalls on Ketchum Run, this is a magnificent pit-stop.

A close-up look at Rusty Run Falls in the Loyalsock State Forest.
A close-up look at Rusty Run Falls in the Loyalsock State Forest.

The close proximity to the road makes Dry Run Falls accessible for virtually everyone, and it really is one of the best roadside waterfalls in Pennsylvania.


Nearby Attractions

Looking for more great waterfalls nearby?

Then check out 10 Must-See Waterfalls Near Worlds End State Park.

A map of 10 waterfalls near Worlds End State Park in Sullivan County Pennsylvania
10 waterfalls near Worlds End State Park in Sullivan County

In this guide you’ll find maps and detailed directions to 10 great waterfall spots in and around Worlds End State Park and the Loyalsock State Forest.

High Rock Falls at Worlds End State Park
High Rock Falls at Worlds End State Park

If scenic vistas are your thing, check out High Knob Overlook, one of Sullivan County’s best roadside attractions, just minutes from Dry Run Falls.

October in Sullivan County as viewed from High Knob Overlook.
October in Sullivan County as viewed from High Knob Overlook.

Ticklish Rock is a gravity-defying sandstone pillar on a forested plateau in Sullivan County.

Looking down on Ticklish Rock in Sullivan County Pennsylvania.
Looking down on Ticklish Rock.

Emerald Falls is a picturesque 15 foot-tall waterfall in the Sullivan County portion of the Loyalsock State Forest.

Downstream view of Emerald Falls along Swamp Run in the Loyalsock State Forest.
Downstream view of Emerald Falls.

Just to the south, in neighboring Lycoming County, you’ll find 5 unforgettable waterfall hikes waiting for you as well.

An autumn scene from the fourth waterfall on Miners Run in the Loyalsock State Forest.
An autumn scene from Miners Run in Lycoming County.

Still not convinced you need to see Dry Run Falls?

Then check out this video!


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Rusty Glessner
Rusty Glessner is a professional photographer, lifelong Pennsylvanian, and a frequently-cited authority on PA's best travel destinations.