Cold Run Road Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainPhoto Credits (1)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Cold Run Road Falls
Cold Run Road Falls is a picturesque, gently cascading waterfall in Pennsylvania, tucked into the quieter reaches of Worlds End State Park. Nestled within the park (land unit: Worlds End State Park; designation: SP), the site sits on land owned by OTHS and is managed under the park’s stewardship (manager: SPR). The falls make a great destination for hikers seeking a peaceful break from busier recreation areas—bring a camera and a sense of calm for a short, restorative visit.
The Setting
Cold Run Road Falls sits at 1,781 feet within Worlds End State Park, in the hills of Pennsylvania.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The route is typically rated moderate and follows established footpaths through park terrain; hikers should be prepared for moderate grades and variable natural surface conditions typical of state-park trails. No USFS trail number is listed for this route; plan for a straightforward hike with modest climbs and a pleasant return on the same trail.
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 Cold Run Road Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Cold Run Road Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting, as the waterfall flow is strongest during these seasons. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter may provide a unique view if the waterfall freezes.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Exercise caution on wet or muddy trails to avoid slipping. Be aware of ticks and other insects in the area. Cell service may be limited, so plan accordingly.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Muncy Creek, 7.4 miles away, not on Cold Run Road Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
9 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 86 years of record
1.65 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle.
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 (12 km away).
Today
Low
9 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Low
10 cfs
4/10Fri
Moderate
10 cfs
5/10Sat
Moderate
10 cfs
5/10Sun
Low
9 cfs
5/10Mon
Low
9 cfs
5/10Tue
Low
9 cfs
6/10Best window: Tue — low flow, partly sunny (trip score 6/10).
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 Forksville hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is Cold Run Road Falls Frozen?
Updated about 4 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately
Cold Run Road Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 59°F to 38°F.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- 9 ft³/s
Winter safety. Frozen falls are the one waterfall trip with a documented injury pattern: falling ice, and ice-glazed rock and trail. Wear microspikes, keep well back from the base and from overhangs, and never walk out on ice over moving water.
Estimate from Open-Meteo daily temperatures at the falls, the LiDAR-measured facing direction, and the nearest stream gauge. It is a likelihood, not a report from the trail. See every frozen waterfall in Pennsylvania.
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.
The bare-earth surface loses about 54 feet through the falls, but gradually, the profile of a cascade rather than a plunge. The ground at the falls is roughly 1,782 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 26 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 87 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing west, the falls glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,782 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 54 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- West
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading west).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Cold Run Road Falls is located near the Loyalsock State Forest in Pennsylvania. Access is typically via Cold Run Road, which may require a short hike depending on parking availability.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is limited and may be roadside. Visitors should ensure they park safely without obstructing traffic.
Elevation
1,781 feet above sea level
Coordinates
41.460077° N, -76.573838° W
Land Management
Managed by SPR
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be uneven in places. Bring water and bug spray, especially during warmer months. Check weather conditions before visiting, as the trail may become muddy after rain.
Where to Stay
Comfort Inn & Suites Tunkhannock
Crystal Springs Inn and Suites
Quality Inn & Suites Towanda
Spacious & Secluded Forksville Home: Fire Pit
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.
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Loyalsock State Forest offers additional hiking trails and scenic spots. Worlds End State Park is also nearby, providing more opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Wildlife
The area is home to various bird species, deer, and other small forest animals. Visitors may also encounter insects, especially in warmer months.
Cities near Cold Run Road Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
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