Falls of Schuylkill
By Armen Suny · Last verified May 2026
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
350 ft
About Falls of Schuylkill
The Falls of Schuylkill — historically the site of the Fairmount Water Works — sits along the Schuylkill River in Philadelphia’s East Falls neighborhood. Once marked by natural cataracts that were submerged in 1822 by the construction of the Schuylkill Canal and the Fairmount Water Works, the area today blends industrial-era river engineering with broad parkland views. It lies within Fairmount Park (a county-owned park unit) and abuts neighborhoods including Germantown, Roxborough, Allegheny West and Nicetown-Tioga; Wissahickon Valley Park separates East Falls from Manayunk to the northwest. Though the original falls are altered, the site remains a pleasant urban outing for walkers, photographers, and anyone curious about Philadelphia’s river history. Stroll the riverside promenades and interpretive areas along the Schuylkill River Trail to take in bridges, waterworks structures, and leafy park corridors maintained as part of the city’s Fairmount Park system.
The Setting
Falls of Schuylkill sits at 10 feet within Fairmount Park, fed by the Wissahickon Creek, in the coastal lowlands of Pennsylvania.
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
There is no single backcountry trail to the original cataracts; instead the route uses city and park paths. A commonly walked out-and-back route in the area covers about 2.4 miles round-trip with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain and is rated moderate in difficulty. The route follows multi-use sections of the Schuylkill River Trail and adjacent park walkways through Fairmount Park (county-managed park unit). Note that this is an urban, multi-use trail experience rather than a wilderness hiking 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 Falls of Schuylkill?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Falls of Schuylkill?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and fall are ideal for pleasant weather and vibrant scenery, but the area can be visited year-round.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Safety Information
Exercise caution near the river, as currents can be strong. Be aware of urban traffic and cyclists along nearby trails.
Current Water Conditions
52 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 60 years of record
2.34 ft
Water depth at gauge
73°F
ComfortablePleasant for swimming
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year. The water is a comfortable 73 degrees F, pleasant for swimming. Expect crystal clear visibility and adequate dissolved oxygen levels. PH is normal at 7.6 and mineral content is moderate.
Water Quality
Dissolved Oxygen
GoodAdequate oxygen levels
pH
NormalWithin healthy range (6.5-8.5)
Water Clarity
Crystal clearExcellent visibility
Conductance
Dissolved minerals in the water
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Wissahickon Creek at Mouth, Philadelphia, PA (1 km away).
Today
Moderate
52 cfs
9/10Tomorrow
Strong
58 cfs
7/10Thu
Strong
53 cfs
10/10Fri
Moderate
51 cfs
9/10Sat
Strong
56 cfs
7/10Sun
Roaring
61 cfs
6/10Mon
Roaring
58 cfs
6/10Best window: Thu — strong flow, sunny (trip score 10/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid February to late April, peaking in March.
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 Bala Cynwyd hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
The Falls of Schuylkill is located near the Fairmount Water Works in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It is easily accessible by car or public transportation, with nearby access points along Kelly Drive.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available nearby, including public lots and street parking along Kelly Drive. Availability may vary depending on the time of day and season.
Elevation
10 feet above sea level
Coordinates
40.007612° N, -75.194068° W
Land Management
Managed by UNKL
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit during daylight hours for the best views and to explore the nearby attractions. Consider combining your visit with a walk or bike ride along the Schuylkill River Trail.
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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. Icy conditions are common in winter — traction cleats are a smart addition.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
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
Courtyard by Marriott Philadelphia City Avenue
Hilton Philadelphia City Avenue
Club Quarters Hotel Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia
Avenue A310 Furnished 2br With Pool And Gym
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
Fairmount Water Works Interpretive Center, Philadelphia Museum of Art, Schuylkill River Trail, Boathouse Row.
Wildlife
The area is home to various bird species and aquatic life, particularly along the river.
Cities near Falls of Schuylkill
Nearby Waterfalls
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