PA Waterfalls

Exploring Sawkill and Savantine Falls in Pike County

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.

If you’re looking for directions to Sawkill and Savantine Falls in Pike County, you’re in the right place!

Photo of the majestic Sawkill Falls in the Delaware State Forest, Pike County, Pennsylvania. This image captures a series of waterfalls cascading over a rugged, rocky cliff surrounded by a dense forest of bare trees and evergreens. The falls create a stunning multi-level display of water flow, with each level contributing to a dynamic overall waterfall system, viewed from a downstream perspective. The water's smooth, silky texture contrasts sharply with the rough, moss-covered rocks and the stark, leafless branches of the surrounding woodland. — Sawkill Falls.

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

Photo of Savantine Falls, a stunning waterfall in the Delaware State Forest, Pike County, Pennsylvania. The image showcases a wide cascade of water flowing smoothly over mossy rocks, creating a veil-like appearance against the rocky backdrop. The foreground is richly adorned with bright green moss and a variety of small plants, enhancing the natural beauty of the scene. Fallen branches and a large tree trunk lie horizontally across the water, adding texture and depth. Tall trees frame the waterfall, emphasizing the secluded and tranquil atmosphere of this forested area. — Savantine Falls.

Located less than 300 yards apart on separate streams, this pair of waterfalls make for a great day hike destination in the Poconos.

Photo capturing the vibrant and dynamic upstream cascades of Savantine Falls in the Delaware State Forest, Pike County, Pennsylvania. The image shows a swift, flowing creek with water forcefully cascading over smooth, flat rocks, creating a series of small waterfalls. The rocks are richly covered with bright green moss, which contrasts with the surrounding bare trees and fallen leaves, offering a lush, fresh look amidst the neutral tones of the forest. This scene beautifully illustrates the natural energy and tranquility of this wooded area. — Cascades upstream from Savantine Falls.

Directions to Sawkill and Savantine Falls

The hike to Sawkill and Savantine Falls involves a 3 mile out-and-back trek along the Huckleberry Trail in the Delaware State Forest.

Map of the hiking route to Sawkill and Savantine Falls in the Delaware State Forest, Pike County, Pennsylvania. This detailed map indicates various landmarks along the trail, including "Stone Ruins," multiple "Wet Crossings," and a "T-Intersection." It shows the trail path with a dotted line navigating through contours of elevation and near bodies of water. Notable features marked are the locations of Sawkill Falls and Savantine Falls, each represented by blue icons. Additional practical information includes a designated "Parking" area near Lily Pond, aiding hikers in planning their visit to these scenic waterfalls. — Trail map to Sawkill and Savantine Falls.

The parking area is located on the western side of the Lily Pond Picnic Area.

Photo of the sign for the Lily Pond Picnic Area Trailhead and Demonstration Forest in the Delaware State Forest, Pike County, Pennsylvania. The wooden sign is set against a backdrop of a misty forest, emphasizing the natural, serene environment. It includes information about the cooperation between Pike County Delaware State Forest and the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. This sign marks the starting point for visitors exploring the nearby trails, including those leading to Sawkill and Savantine Falls. — Lily Pond Picnic Area.

If navigating by GPS, use 41.36098, -74.85645 to find this large dirt lot (pictured below) on the far side of the pond.

Photo of a parking area at Lily Pond near the trailhead to Sawkill and Savantine Falls in the Delaware State Forest, Pike County, Pennsylvania. The image shows a bright red pickup truck parked on a gravel lot, with the tranquil Lily Pond in the background. The area is surrounded by lush greenery and trees, providing a scenic and peaceful setting for visitors starting their hike. A small cabin can be seen across the pond, adding to the picturesque and serene environment of this popular outdoor destination. — Parking area near trailhead.

The Huckleberry Trail begins right behind the parking area, and is marked by a State Forest trail sign.

Photo of the Huckleberry Trail in the Delaware State Forest, Pike County, Pennsylvania, leading to Sawkill and Savantine Falls. The image features a trail sign reading "Huckleberry Trail" next to a path blanketed with fallen leaves. The trail, edged by green and grey-painted rocks, winds through a dense forest of evergreen trees, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere for hikers. The natural setting, with its muted colors and tranquil vibe, highlights the peacefulness of the area, perfect for nature walks and exploration. — Huckleberry Trail sign near Lily Pond.

The first mile of the hike follows this obvious-but-unblazed trail through the forest, with about 100 feet of elevation change/descent over the course of that mile.

Photo of a serene, leaf-covered trail in the Delaware State Forest, Pike County, Pennsylvania, leading towards Sawkill and Savantine Falls. The trail, narrow and edged with moss-covered rocks, meanders through a forest densely populated with slender, bare trees, showcasing the early signs of spring. This peaceful path, typical of the forest's natural scenery, offers a tranquil hiking experience, inviting visitors to enjoy the quiet and beauty of the area as they trek towards the waterfalls. — The Huckleberry Trail.

There are 2 small stream crossings in the first mile as well, both of which are easy to navigate using stones that have been laid out to form rudimentary foot bridges.

Photo of a small stream crossing along the hiking trail to Sawkill and Savantine Falls in the Delaware State Forest, Pike County, Pennsylvania. The stream gently flows over a bed of rocks and moss, nestled within a tranquil, wooded area. Surrounding the stream are various types of trees, some evergreen and others bare, which create a natural canopy over the area. The lush green moss and fallen leaves add vibrant color and texture to the peaceful forest setting, characteristic of this picturesque trail. — Stream crossing via stones.

After a mile, you’ll come to a T-intersection; hang a right at the T-intersection (GPS coordinates 41.35500, -74.87099) and continue to follow the Huckleberry Trail along what now looks more like an old forest road.

Photo showing a tranquil forest trail in the Delaware State Forest, Pike County, Pennsylvania, on the way to Sawkill and Savantine Falls. The trail is carpeted with fallen leaves, flanked by a mix of deciduous and evergreen trees, which create a stark contrast between the brown leaf-covered ground and the vibrant green of the pines. This serene path, typical of early spring before the new foliage emerges, leads hikers through a peaceful woodland setting, enhancing the natural beauty and quiet of the area. — Wider portion of Huckleberry Trail.

Roughly 200 yards down this road-looking portion of the trail, you’ll begin to encounter the ruins of stone walls on either side of the trail.

Photo of historical stone ruins along the hiking trail to Sawkill and Savantine Falls in the Delaware State Forest, Pike County, Pennsylvania. The image features an old stone wall, partially covered in moss, nestled in a forested area. Fallen leaves and bare trees surround the structure, suggesting the ruins blend naturally with the environment. This scene captures the historical essence of the area, providing a glimpse into the past amidst the natural beauty of the forest. — Stone ruins.

Follow the trail another 100 yards and you’ll see the large and obvious ruins of the foundation of a mill of some sort along Sawkill Creek.

Photo of historical stone ruins along Sawkill Creek in the Delaware State Forest, Pike County, Pennsylvania. The image features the remains of an old mill with several stacked stone walls, partially covered in vibrant green moss, amidst a forested area. The creek flows vigorously alongside, with clear waters rushing over rocky beds, enhancing the picturesque and serene woodland setting. This scenic spot, rich in both natural beauty and historical significance, is a highlight along the hiking trail to Sawkill and Savantine Falls. — Old mill foundation.

Just upstream from those ruins is a calm, shallow part of the stream – that’s where you’ll want to cross the stream.

Photo of a shallow creek crossing in the Delaware State Forest, Pike County, Pennsylvania, near the Sawkill and Savantine Falls hike. The creek is captured flowing gently over a rocky bed, lined with vibrant green moss and scattered foliage. Surrounding the creek are dense woods, filled with thin, bare trees, creating a tranquil and somewhat wild atmosphere. This natural scene reflects the peaceful yet rugged terrain that hikers can enjoy while exploring the area above the historic mill ruins. — Shallow point to cross Sawkill Creek.

Wearing calf-high boots I was able to cross here without getting wet feet; water shoes would also do the trick in warmer weather.

Photo showing a hiker's legs, one foot submerged in a puddle along the trail to Sawkill and Savantine Falls in the Delaware State Forest, Pike County, Pennsylvania. The hiker is wearing dark green waterproof boots and light brown pants, which are essential for navigating the wet and muddy conditions. The surrounding area features grass, moss, and fallen leaves, emphasizing the need for appropriate footwear due to the soggy terrain encountered on this scenic hike. — In colder weather, you’ll want calf-high boots to cross Sawkill Creek without getting wet feet.

Once you’re safely across Sawkill Creek, the top of Sawkill Falls is roughly 150 yards downstream, at GPS coordinates 41.35353, -74.87222.

Photo of a side view of Sawkill Falls in the Delaware State Forest, Pike County, Pennsylvania, captured from the hiking trail. The waterfall flows powerfully through a rocky terrain, surrounded by lush, moss-covered boulders and dense woodland. Tall, slender trees frame the scene, enhancing the natural, rugged beauty of the area. This picturesque spot, with the water cascading amidst vibrant green moss and scattered fallen leaves, provides a stunning example of the serene and untamed landscapes accessible along this trail. — Descending the edge of Sawkill Falls.

You can either follow the steeper user trail right down the side of the falls, or swing out a bit wider and descend a more gradual slope, then loop back upstream to the base of the falls.

Map illustrating the hiking trail to Sawkill and Savantine Falls in the Delaware State Forest, Pike County, Pennsylvania. The map shows key points along the trail including "Stone Ruins," "Wet Crossing" locations, and a "T-Intersection." The trail, marked with a dotted line, leads through varied terrain indicated by contour lines, connecting the two waterfalls, Sawkill Falls and Savantine Falls, which are marked with blue icons. The trail's proximity to Sawmill Creek is also noted, enhancing orientation for hikers planning their visit. — Trail map close-up.

Sawkill Falls

Although there is only one stream feeding the falls, from the base it has the appearance of two stream merging together.

Photo of a cascading waterfall in a serene forest setting, showing multiple streams of water flowing over layered rock formations surrounded by lush greenery and bare trees. A large fallen tree lies across the lower cascades, adding a rustic element to the natural landscape. The scene captures the tranquil beauty of Sawkill Falls in the Delaware State Forest, Pike County, Pennsylvania. — Sawkill Falls.

Using myself in the photo below for scale, I’d estimate the total height of the various tiers of Sawkill Falls to be in the 20-25 foot-tall range.

Photo of a male hiker observing Sawkill Falls in the Delaware State Forest, Pike County, Pennsylvania. The hiker, wearing a red jacket and blue beanie, stands on a fallen tree trunk, looking towards the multi-tiered cascades of the waterfall. The falls flow vigorously over moss-covered rocks and through a wooded landscape. The lush greenery, coupled with the soothing movement of the water, creates a peaceful natural setting, highlighting the beauty and tranquility of the area. — The author at Sawkill Falls.

From a vantage point slightly downstream, Sawkill Falls looks even more like the confluence of two stream (but again, it’s not.)

Photo of Sawkill Falls, a multi-tiered waterfall nestled in the Delaware State Forest, Pike County, Pennsylvania. The image captures the waterfall's dynamic cascades flowing through a rocky, forested landscape. Large boulders covered in moss and various small plants are strewn throughout the scene, with fallen branches and autumn leaves adding natural detail. The foreground shows a small stream rushing over rocks, leading the viewer's eye towards the powerful falls in the background, all surrounded by dense woodland. — Downstream view of the falls.

Savantine Falls

Just a few hundred yards downstream from Sawkill Falls, you’ll find Savantine Falls on a tributary of Sawkill Creek, at GPS coordinates 41.35369, -74.86814.

To get to the base of this one, I found it easiest to just cross Sawkill Creek right above the confluence of the two streams.

Photo capturing a scenic section of the trail along Sawkill and Savantine Falls in the Delaware State Forest, Pike County, Pennsylvania. The image shows a fast-flowing creek winding through a forest, with waters rushing over rocks covered in vivid green moss. Fallen trees and leaf litter scatter the creek banks, highlighting the natural and untamed beauty of the area. This part of the trail, likely near the confluence of Sawkill Creek and Savantine Creek, offers hikers a picturesque and immersive forest experience. — Cross Sawkill Creek here to reach the base of Savantine Falls.

Using myself for scale again, I’d estimate Savantine Falls to be roughly 15-feet tall.

Photo of a male hiker standing near Savantine Falls in the Delaware State Forest, Pike County, Pennsylvania. The hiker, equipped with a backpack and trekking poles, is wearing a red jacket and blue beanie. He observes the broad, flowing waterfall that cascades smoothly over a mossy rock face surrounded by a dense forest. The foreground is rich with vibrant green moss and fallen branches, emphasizing the lush, moist environment typical of this region. The scene captures the peaceful and invigorating experience of hiking in this beautiful natural area. — The author at Savantine Falls.

Even when I visited in early April, there was a lot of vibrant green moss surrounding the falls.

Photo of Savantine Falls in the Delaware State Forest, Pike County, Pennsylvania, featuring a wide, flowing waterfall surrounded by a lush, wooded area. The waterfall cascades smoothly over moss-covered rocks, creating a serene and picturesque scene. The vibrant green moss and fallen tree branches in the foreground add a touch of rugged wilderness to the scene. Tall trees with thin, bare trunks surround the falls, enhancing the feeling of seclusion and natural beauty in this tranquil forest setting. — Vibrant moss at Savantine Falls.

At this point you’ve hiked roughly 1.5 miles; simply retrace your steps to get back to the parking area at the Lily Pond Picnic Area to complete this 3 mile hike.

As a side note, I’m aware of some online directions to these waterfalls that have you illegally parking along a road, running across busy Route 6, and jumping some guardrails – DON’T DO THIS!

Photo of Sawkill Falls in the Delaware State Forest, Pike County, Pennsylvania, showing a cascading multi-tiered waterfall. Water flows energetically over layered rock formations, surrounded by a forest of bare and evergreen trees. A large fallen tree crosses the rocky creek bed, adding a rugged element to the picturesque scene. Moss-covered stones and the lush environment emphasize the natural beauty and tranquility of this popular hiking destination. — The Huckleberry Trail leads to the top of Sawkill Falls in the Delaware State Forest.

Not only is it dangerous, it’s totally unnecessary, as this hike is very straightforward and follows the Huckleberry Trail right to the top of Sawkill Falls.

Photo capturing a high-angle view of Savantine Falls in the Delaware State Forest, Pike County, Pennsylvania. The waterfall rushes over a steep, rocky ledge surrounded by a dense forest, emphasizing the rugged natural landscape. Ferns and mosses thrive on the moist rocks near the falls, adding a lush green to the scene. This vantage point provides a dramatic perspective on the powerful flow of water and the serene beauty of the secluded forest setting. — Savantine Falls as viewed from the side.

Nearby Attractions

Raymondskill Falls is located nearby in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, and at 178 feet tall, is said to be the tallest waterfall in Pennsylvania.

A collection of five images showcasing Raymondskill Falls in Pike County, Pennsylvania. Top left: A dynamic view of the waterfall with water streaming over a rocky cliff into a serene pool. Top right: A separate section of the falls where water splits into two paths amid dense trees. Bottom left: The rocky creek bed upstream, dotted with large stones and autumn leaves. Bottom center: A downward angle on the falls, highlighting the cascading water and mist. Bottom right: The hiking trail leading to the falls with rough-hewn stone steps and a wooden handrail, bordered by leaf-strewn ground and forest greenery. — Scenes from Raymondskill Falls.

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

A collage featuring five images from Dingmans Falls in Pike County, Pennsylvania. The top left and bottom center photos capture the falls in full force, with water cascading down a series of rocky ledges surrounded by lush greenery. The top right picture showcases the olive-green visitor center with its yellow details and the National Park Service emblem, nestled in the woods. A footbridge leading through the verdant forest is the focus of the bottom left image, inviting exploration. Finally, the bottom right photo offers a close-up of a smaller cascade, with a wooden staircase alongside it, emphasizing the natural rugged terrain of the area. Together, these images create a comprehensive visual tour of the Dingmans Falls area, highlighting both the powerful beauty of the falls and the facilities that welcome visitors to this scenic destination. — Scenes from Dingmans Falls.

While not nearly as tall as either Raymondskill or Dingmans Falls, Shohola Falls, also located in Pike County, makes for a scenic pitstop.

This collage showcases five distinct perspectives of Shohola Falls and its surroundings in Pike County, Pennsylvania. The top left photo captures the falls from a distance, emphasizing their width and the surrounding greenery. The top right image offers a view through a tree’s branches, highlighting the falls' vertical drop. The middle image is a close-up that blurs the rushing water, conveying its movement. The bottom left shows a tree with intricate roots beside the waterfall, illustrating the interplay between flora and water. Lastly, the bottom right photo features a wooden observation deck extending toward a lake, providing a peaceful vantage point against a backdrop of overcast skies. Each photo collectively portrays the diverse beauty of the falls and the serene landscape. — Scenes from Shohola Falls.

Hackers Falls is a 20 foot-tall, fan shaped waterfall located in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area in Pike County.

A collage of four photos highlighting different aspects of Hackers Falls in Pike County, Pennsylvania. The top left image shows the waterfall flowing through a forested area, framed by trees. The top right image captures a close-up of the main waterfall cascading over a rocky ledge into a pool below. The bottom left image features a gravel trail with a signpost indicating the Cliff Trail and Hackers Trail, set within dense woodland. The bottom right image displays the waterfall from a wider angle, showcasing the cascading water over multiple rocky steps, surrounded by lush greenery. — Scenes from Hackers Falls.

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.

Lower Indian Ladders Falls is a 25 foot-tall waterfall along Lower Hornbecks Creek, also located within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.

A collage of four photos related to Lower Indian Ladders Falls in Pike County, PA. The top left image shows the 25-foot-tall waterfall cascading over moss-covered rocks into a pool below. The top right image features a wooden and metal footbridge crossing Hornbecks Creek, part of the trail leading to the falls. The bottom left image depicts the trailhead information board for Lower Hornbecks Creek, displaying a detailed map, regulations, and safety tips. The bottom right image is another view of Lower Indian Ladders Falls, highlighting the lush greenery and rocky cliffs surrounding the waterfall within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. — Scenes from Lower Indian Ladders 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 in Pike County.

The Cliff Trail near Milford features 4 outstanding scenic overlooks from its vantage point high atop Raymondskill Ridge in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.

This collage showcases five photos from the Cliff Trail in Pike County, Pennsylvania. The large image on the left depicts a hiker observing the landscape from a high vantage point, looking out over the winding Delaware River and brown fields, indicative of the changing seasons. The hiker is equipped with a backpack and walking stick, emphasizing the adventurous nature of the trail. The top right image provides a scenic view of a small town nestled among hills and trees, highlighting the trail’s proximity to local communities. The middle right photo features a trail marker, denoting the Cliff Trail and directing towards Raymondskill, set against a background of a typical forest scene on the trail. The bottom left image captures another section of the trail with a rocky outcrop and a distant view of the river and fields, while the bottom right picture shows a serene lake bordered by evergreens and bare trees, reflecting the tranquility found along the trail. The collage as a whole encapsulates the variety of natural beauty along the Cliff Trail. — Scenes from the Cliff Trail.

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

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. — Scenes from Bushkill Falls.

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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