Cayuga Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Hard
Trail Length
7.2 miles
Trail Type
Loop
About Cayuga Falls
Cayuga Falls is a picturesque cascade tucked into Ricketts Glenn State Park (managed by Pennsylvania State Parks, SPR). As one of the named stops along the park’s famous Falls Trail System, Cayuga Falls draws hikers with its peaceful plunge and easy access from the main trail network — a popular pause for those exploring the park’s waterfalls. Reaching Cayuga Falls is a rewarding short outing: the approach is a moderate out-and-back that covers roughly 2.4 miles with about 350 feet of elevation gain. The setting feels immersive without requiring a full-day commitment, making it a great choice for visitors who want a classic Ricketts Glenn waterfall experience without an overly long hike.
The Setting
Cayuga Falls sits at 2,041 feet within Ricketts Glenn State Park, fed by the Muncy Creek, in the hills of Pennsylvania.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Ganoga Falls (94 ft) lies 0.1 miles to the southeast. Also nearby: Oneida Falls (13 ft, 0.2 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Trail approach: Falls Trail System — out-and-back approach to Cayuga Falls, ~2.4 miles round-trip with ~350 ft elevation gain; rated moderate. The Falls Trail includes steep sections, rocky terrain, and multiple stream crossings, so expect uneven footing and occasional rock steps. Proper footwear and caution are recommended. Managed within Ricketts Glenn State Park (SPR).
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail involves steep, uneven terrain with significant elevation change and is not accessible to mobility devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Cayuga Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Cayuga Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting Cayuga Falls, as the water flow is typically strongest during these seasons. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter provides a unique view of frozen waterfalls, though the trail may be hazardous.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
The trail can be slippery, especially near waterfalls and after rain. Wear proper footwear and exercise caution. During winter, the trail may be icy and hazardous. Check trail conditions before visiting.
Current Water Conditions
13 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 86 years of record
1.75 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 (21 km away).
Today
Strong
13 cfs
10/10Tomorrow
Roaring
13 cfs
6/10Wed
Strong
15 cfs
10/10Thu
Roaring
14 cfs
6/10Fri
Strong
15 cfs
10/10Sat
Strong
14 cfs
10/10Sun
Strong
16 cfs
10/10Best window: Today — strong flow, mostly sunny (trip score 10/10).
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
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 98 feet of descent through Cayuga Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 2,085 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 48 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 110 feet in the 500 feet below. 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
- 2,085 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 98 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
Cayuga Falls is located within Ricketts Glen State Park. The Falls Trail System can be accessed from the Lake Rose Trailhead or the Route 118 parking area. Follow the trail markers to reach the waterfall.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Lake Rose Trailhead and the Route 118 parking area. These are the primary access points for the Falls Trail System.
Elevation
2,041 feet above sea level
Coordinates
41.325278° N, -76.285000° W
Land Management
Managed by SPR
Visitor Tips & Gear
Start your hike early to avoid crowds and ensure you have enough daylight to complete the trail. Wear sturdy hiking boots, bring plenty of water, and be prepared for slippery rocks near the waterfalls.
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
Other waterfalls in Ricketts Glen State Park, including Ganoga Falls and Mohawk Falls. Lake Jean offers opportunities for boating and picnicking.
Wildlife
The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, black bears, and numerous bird species. Be cautious and respect wildlife from a distance.
Cities near Cayuga Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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