Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
350 ft
About Adams Falls
Adams Falls is a compact, photogenic cascade tucked into old-growth hardwoods in Ricketts Glen State Park, where water tumbles over layered bedrock into a shallow plunge—an easy-to-enjoy highlight for hikers and photographers. The setting offers close, satisfying viewpoints that make it a popular stop on many visitors’ lists. Per Wikipedia, Adams Falls is one of two waterfalls by that name in Pennsylvania; this entry refers specifically to the Adams Falls inside Ricketts Glen State Park. The site and approaches are managed by the state park unit, and the short outing fits well into a half-day visit to the park’s scenic stream corridors. The trail to the falls is approachable for most hikers and rewards minimal effort with classic northeastern woodland scenery and a crowd-pleasing cascade framed by mossy rock and ferns.
The Setting
Adams Falls sits at 1,250 feet within Ricketts Glenn State Park, fed by the Muncy Creek, in the foothills of Pennsylvania.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Sheldon Reynolds Falls (36 ft) lies 1.4 miles to the north. Also nearby: Harrison Wright Falls (27 ft, 1.5 mi) and Murray Reynolds Falls (16 ft, 1.3 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back trail gains 350 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
This route is an out-and-back of approximately 2.4 miles round-trip with about 350 feet of elevation gain and is generally rated moderate in difficulty. The path follows maintained state-park trails and includes a short spur to a designated viewing area near the cascade, making it suitable as a half-day outing or a standalone short hike. The falls and approaches sit within Ricketts Glen State Park (land unit: Ricketts Glen State Park; designation: SP; land owner: OTHS) and are managed by the state park unit (manager: SPR). No USFS trail number or federal trail surface/grade/class data were provided for this state-park route.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Adams Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Adams Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit when the water flow is at its peak. Fall offers stunning foliage, making it another great time to visit.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
The rocks around the waterfall can be slippery, especially after rain. Stay on designated trails and avoid climbing on rocks near the water. Cell service may be limited in the area.
Current Water Conditions
7 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 85 years of record
1.62 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Muncy Creek near Sonestown, PA (23 km away).
Today
Low
8 cfs
3/10Tomorrow
Low
8 cfs
4/10Sat
Low
7 cfs
4/10Sun
Barely Flowing
6 cfs
5/10Mon
Barely Flowing
6 cfs
5/10Tue
Low
7 cfs
3/10Wed
Low
7 cfs
3/10Best window: Sun — barely flowing flow, mostly sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late February to early May, peaking in April.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Jamison City hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Adams Falls is located near the southern entrance of Ricketts Glen State Park, off Route 118. The waterfall is a short walk from the parking area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking lot near the trailhead for Adams Falls, located off Route 118. Parking is free but may fill up during peak seasons.
Elevation
1,250 feet above sea level
Coordinates
41.299460° N, -76.274154° W
Land Management
Managed by SPR
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit early in the morning or on weekdays to avoid crowds. Wear sturdy shoes as the area around the falls can be slippery. Bring a camera to capture the scenic beauty.
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With 2.4 miles and 350 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Where to Stay
Paper Mill Pines Bed and Breakfast
Cozy 3BR Octagon Cabin-Near Ricketts Glen
CHARMING EXECUTIVE VICTORIAN MANSION w/ FREE PARKING - near Bucknell
Quality Inn New Columbia-Lewisburg
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Ricketts Glen State Park is home to 21 named waterfalls along the Falls Trail, including Ganoga Falls, the tallest in the park. Lake Jean is also nearby for picnicking and boating.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Visitors may also see wildflowers and ferns along the trail.
Cities near Adams Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Adams Falls
2 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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