Kitchen Creek Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
3.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
400 ft
About Kitchen Creek Falls
Kitchen Creek Falls is one of the standout cascades on the Falls Trail System tucked inside Ricketts Glenn State Park, managed by the Pennsylvania State Parks (SPR). The falls are part of a dramatic sequence of more than 20 waterfalls along Kitchen Creek, set in steep, hemlock‑lined gorge scenery that makes the route a favorite for photographers and day hikers. Kitchen Creek itself is a 10.6‑mile tributary of Huntington Creek in Luzerne County that flows through Fairmount and Huntington townships; its 20.10‑square‑mile watershed is designated a high‑quality coldwater fishery, so the stream and surrounding forest feel especially wild and clean. Approachable yet scenic, Kitchen Creek Falls rewards a relatively short outing with classic northeastern Pennsylvania waterfall views. The Falls Trail System threads close to the water in many spots, offering both panoramic overlooks and intimate cascades where you can hear Kitchen Creek rushing through the gorge. Because the area lies within Ricketts Glenn State Park, visitors should follow park rules and seasonal guidance from SPR while enjoying the trail.
The Setting
Kitchen Creek Falls sits at 1,234 feet within Ricketts Glenn State Park, fed by the Muncy Creek, in the foothills of Pennsylvania.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Sheldon Reynolds Falls (36 ft) lies 1.4 miles to the north. Also nearby: Harrison Wright Falls (27 ft, 1.5 mi) and Murray Reynolds Falls (16 ft, 1.3 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 3.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 400 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Falls Trail System to Kitchen Creek Falls — out-and-back, 3.0 miles round trip with roughly 400 feet of elevation gain. Rated moderate: expect uneven footing with rocky and rooty sections and several steep, short climbs and descents along the creek. The trail surface is natural and often narrow in the gorge; wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for slick rock near the water. The route is non-technical hiking but requires caution on wet or icy days and good balance on exposed sections.
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 Kitchen Creek Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Kitchen Creek Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting, as the waterfalls are typically at their fullest due to snowmelt and rainfall. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter provides a unique experience with frozen waterfalls, though the trail may be more dangerous.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
The trail can be hazardous, especially after rain or during icy conditions. Wear proper footwear, stay on marked trails, and avoid getting too close to the edge of waterfalls. 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 (23 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.
Here the descent is spread out: 1-meter lidar measures about 71 feet of drop through Kitchen Creek Falls, stretched along the creek rather than stacked in one wall. The brink sits at about 1,233 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 43 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 51 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
- 1,233 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 71 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
Kitchen Creek 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 waterfalls.
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
1,234 feet above sea level
Coordinates
41.299248° N, -76.273824° W
Land Management
Managed by SPR
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking boots with good traction, and bring plenty of water and snacks. Start early to avoid crowds and allow enough time to complete the hike. Check weather conditions before visiting, as the trail can be hazardous in wet or icy conditions.
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With 3.0 miles and 400 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
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
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
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Other waterfalls within Ricketts Glen State Park, such as Ganoga Falls and Harrison Wright Falls. Lake Jean is also nearby, offering opportunities for boating and picnicking.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, black bears, and numerous bird species. Visitors should exercise caution and avoid feeding wildlife.
Cities near Kitchen Creek Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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