Ganoga Falls
Pennsylvania • 94 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Hard
Trail Length
7.2 miles
Trail Type
Loop
About Ganoga Falls
Ganoga Falls is the tallest waterfall in Ricketts Glenn State Park, plunging roughly 94 feet and anchoring the park’s famed Falls Trail system. It’s a showpiece among the park’s string of named cascades, offering dramatic vertical drop and moss-draped rock walls that reward hikers who make the climb. The setting is classic northeastern Pennsylvania hardwood forest—quiet, green and photogenic—making Ganoga Falls a favorite stop for both day hikers and waterfall photographers. The falls and surrounding landscape sit within Ricketts Glenn State Park (designation: SP), managed by SPR, and form part of a broader landscape that includes nearby Ganoga Lake. According to historical records summarized on Wikipedia, Ganoga Lake is a natural lake in Colley Township that was known as Robinson’s Lake and Long Pond in the 1800s; it was purchased by the Ricketts family in the early 1850s and later became part of R. Bruce Ricketts’ holdings after the Civil War. That sense of history and preserved wildness helps give the Falls Trail its enduring appeal.
The Setting
Ganoga Falls sits at 1,962 feet within Ricketts Glenn State Park, fed by the Muncy Creek, in the hills of Pennsylvania. The falls drop 94 feet.
Height: 94 feet
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The Falls Trail to Ganoga Falls is a moderately difficult out-and-back of about 2.4 miles with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain. Expect steep, rocky sections and uneven footing—surfaces can be slick after rain—so sturdy, grippy footwear and careful footing are essential. The trail climbs and descends through forested switchbacks and rock steps to viewpoints overlooking the 94-foot plunge; the path’s grade and rocky character make parts of it feel strenuous despite the relatively short distance. This is a well-traveled trail within Ricketts Glenn State Park and is best approached at a steady pace, leaving extra time for stops at viewpoints and other falls along the route. Because the trail is out-and-back, plan for return travel on the same path and be prepared for the steep sections on both directions.
What to Expect
The falls cascade 94 feet. 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 Ganoga Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Ganoga Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting Ganoga Falls, as the water flow is typically at its peak. Fall offers stunning foliage, while winter provides a unique opportunity to see the falls frozen, though the trail may be treacherous.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
The trail is steep and rocky, with sections that can be slippery. Exercise caution, especially near the waterfalls. Avoid hiking during heavy rain or icy conditions. Cell phone service may be limited in the area.
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.
Through the falls the surface drops roughly 207 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Only part of that is the waterfall, which is listed at 94 feet; the rest is the canyon carrying on downstream. Elevation at the pin is about 2,006 feet.
The whole reach is steep: about 82 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 85 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face southeast and catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 2,006 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 207 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southeast
- Catches soft morning light.
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
Ganoga Falls is located within Ricketts Glen State Park, which is accessible via PA Route 118. The Falls Trailhead is the primary starting point for accessing the waterfall.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Lake Rose Trailhead or the Route 118 Trailhead. Both provide access to the Falls Trail system.
Elevation
1,962 feet above sea level
Coordinates
41.323889° N, -76.283889° 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 with good traction, and bring plenty of water and snacks. Check weather conditions before your visit, as the trail can be hazardous when wet or icy.
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, Lake Jean for picnicking and kayaking, and nearby state parks such as Worlds End State Park.
Wildlife
The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, black bears, and numerous bird species. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the trail.
Cities near Ganoga Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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