LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Buck Hill Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainAbout Buck Hill Falls
Buck Hill Falls sits inside the historic Buck Hill Falls resort community in the Pocono Mountains of northeastern Pennsylvania, a private enclave founded in 1901 as a Quaker retreat by a group of Friends from Philadelphia that included Charles F. Jenkins. The falls are nestled within Jenkins Woods (designation: FORE) on privately owned land managed by a local non-governmental organization, and the setting is classic Pocono—mature hardwoods, mossy ledges and a peaceful cascade that rewards photographers and quiet walkers alike. The nearby Inn at Buck Hill Falls, which began as a small wooden hostelry and was expanded into a large stone building in 1926, helped establish the community’s reputation through the mid-20th century, and that history still colors visits today. Because the waterfall and its trails are on private property, access may be limited to residents, guests, or those granted permission by the Buck Hill Falls community. If you’re planning a visit, contact the community in advance to confirm whether visitors are allowed and to learn about any seasonal or event-related restrictions. When access is permitted, the short walk to the falls makes for a rewarding half-day outing framed by the area’s quiet forestry and resort-era architecture.
The Setting
Buck Hill Falls sits at 1,102 feet within Jenkins Woods, fed by the Swiftwater Creek, in the foothills of Pennsylvania.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The commonly referenced route to Buck Hill Falls is an out-and-back of approximately 2.4 miles with about 350 feet of elevation gain and is generally rated moderate in difficulty. The trail is located within Jenkins Woods on private land; its surface, official trail number, grade class, and any USFS designation are not publicly documented. Visitors should inquire with the Buck Hill Falls community before attempting the route to confirm access, parking, and any trail conditions or restrictions.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a serene and picturesque waterfall surrounded by forested areas. However, access is typically restricted to residents or guests of the Buck Hill Falls community.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. Visitors should contact the Buck Hill Falls community for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Buck Hill Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
Permit required
Access to Buck Hill Falls is typically restricted to residents or guests of the Buck Hill Falls community. Contact the community for permit or access details.
🏊 Is There Swimming at Buck Hill Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and fall are ideal for visiting due to the vibrant foliage and higher water flow. Summer is also a good time for warmer weather, but access may still be restricted.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Access to Buck Hill Falls is restricted, and visitors should respect private property. Trails may be uneven or slippery near the waterfall. Always exercise caution.
Current Water Conditions
8 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 24 years of record
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 Swiftwater Creek at Swiftwater, PA (12 km away).
Today
Moderate
8 cfs
8/10Tomorrow
Moderate
12 cfs
6/10Thu
Moderate
9 cfs
8/10Fri
Moderate
8 cfs
8/10Sat
Moderate
9 cfs
6/10Sun
Moderate
10 cfs
6/10Mon
Moderate
9 cfs
9/10Best window: Mon — moderate flow, partly sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid March to late April, 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 Mountainhome hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
1-meter lidar measures about 171 feet of descent through Buck Hill Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 1,084 feet above sea level.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 133 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 89 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing northeast, the falls catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,084 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 171 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northeast
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading northeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Buck Hill Falls is located within the private Buck Hill Falls community in Monroe County, Pennsylvania. Visitors should check with the community for access policies and directions.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking may be available within the Buck Hill Falls community, but access is typically restricted to residents or guests.
Hours
Elevation
1,102 feet above sea level
Coordinates
41.194813° N, -75.268515° W
Land Management
Managed by NGO
Visitor Tips & Gear
Contact the Buck Hill Falls community in advance to confirm access policies. Respect private property and adhere to any posted rules or guidelines.
Where to Stay
Pocono Mountain Villas MOD Collection by Sonesta
Mount Airy Casino Resort - Adults Only 21 Plus
Comfort Inn Pocono Lakes Region
Brookview Manor Inn
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
Alosa Campsites
17 miles away · 6 sites
Overview The Alosa Campsites are boat-in only sites located on the west (Pennsylvanian) shore of the Delaware River near Bushkill, Pennsylvania. The side of the river with the campsites will be on your right while traveling downstream. This section of the river offers unspoiled views, excellent boating, fishing, and birding opportunities within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area and the Middle Delaware National Scenic and Recreational River. These reservation-only campsites are avail
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
The Pocono Mountains region offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and other waterfalls such as Bushkill Falls.
Wildlife
The area around Buck Hill Falls is home to typical Pocono wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals.
Cities near Buck Hill Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
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