Factory Falls waterfall
Live Conditions · 8 ft³/s · Much higher than usual

Factory Falls

Pennsylvania

By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026

LiDAR & 3D terrain
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area NRA · National Park Service
Photo Credits (5)

Difficulty

Easy

Trail Length

1.4 miles

Trail Type

Loop

About Factory Falls

Factory Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in the George W. Childs Park area of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area in Pennsylvania. It is known for its cascading tiers and serene surroundings, making it a popular spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

The Setting

Factory Falls sits at 814 feet within Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, fed by the Little Bush Kill, in the foothills of Pennsylvania.

Nearby Falls Worth Visiting

Raymondskill Falls, the tallest waterfall in Pennsylvania at 150 feet, lies 5.3 miles to the northeast. Also nearby: Dingmans Falls (130 ft, 1.3 mi) and Silverthread Falls (80 ft, 1.5 mi).

Trail & Hike Details

Trail Description

The trail to Factory Falls is a well-maintained loop that passes through a lush forest and offers views of multiple waterfalls, including Factory Falls. The path is relatively flat with some gentle inclines, making it accessible for most visitors.

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 Factory Falls?

✅ Dogs are allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🆖 No fees required

🏊 Is There Swimming at Factory Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall

Spring and fall are ideal times to visit due to the vibrant foliage and higher water flow. Summer is also popular, but the trail may be busier.

Seasonal Access

The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check the National Park Service website for current conditions.

Safety Information

Exercise caution near the waterfall edges as rocks can be slippery. Stay on designated trails to avoid accidents and protect the environment.

Current Water Conditions

Updated about 1 hour ago Roaring

8 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

Much higher than usual for this time of year

4.68 ft

Water depth at gauge

7-Day Discharge Trend

What does this mean for your visit?

The water is flowing much higher than usual, expect an impressive display.

About This Gauge

USGS 01439590
4.4 miles from waterfall
Drainage: 7 sq mi
Altitude: 1,267 ft

7-Day Flow Outlook

Based on the USGS gauge Little Bush Kill at Edgemere, PA (7 km away).

High confidence
Roaring right now
8 cfs
↑ Rising
100100100100100100100TodayTomorrowWedThuFriSatSun

Today

Roaring

8 cfs

8/10

Tomorrow

Roaring

9 cfs

8/10

Wed

Roaring

28 cfs

8/10

Thu

Roaring

30 cfs

8/10

Fri

Roaring

28 cfs

6/10

Sat

Roaring

25 cfs

6/10

Sun

Roaring

22 cfs

6/10

Best window: Today — roaring flow, mostly cloudy (trip score 8/10).

Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early March to mid 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 Birchwood Lakes 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 121 feet of descent through Factory Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 819 feet above sea level.

The ground changes about 83 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 36 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing southeast, the falls catch soft morning light.

Aerial photo of the same ground around Factory Falls near Birchwood Lakes, Pennsylvania, for comparison with the lidar view LiDAR bare-earth terrain around Factory Falls near Birchwood Lakes, Pennsylvania, showing about 121 feet of drop, a steep tiered drop, facing southeast
Aerial LiDAR bare earth

Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.

Ground elevation
819 feet
Measured by 1-meter lidar
Drop at the falls
About 121 feet
Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
Faces
Southeast
Catches soft morning light.
Ground profile through the falls

A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southeast).

Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.

Location & Access

Getting There

Factory Falls is located within George W. Childs Park, which is part of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. The park is accessible via Route 209, and there are clear signs directing visitors to the parking area.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

There is a designated parking lot at George W. Childs Park, which provides easy access to the trail leading to Factory Falls.

Elevation

814 feet above sea level

Coordinates

41.236205° N, -74.915448° W

Land Management

Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area NRA

Managed by NPS

Visitor Tips & Gear

Arrive early to secure parking, especially during weekends and peak seasons. Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be slippery near the falls. Bring water and a camera to capture the scenic views.

Where to Stay

Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Nearby Campground

Alosa Campsites

11 miles away · 6 sites

Reservable

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.gov

Additional Information

Nearby Attractions

Other waterfalls in George W. Childs Park, Dingmans Falls, and Silverthread Falls are located nearby and worth visiting.

Wildlife

The area is home to various bird species, deer, and small mammals. Visitors may also encounter insects such as mosquitoes and ticks.

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