Little Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Little Falls
Little Falls is a small, picturesque cascade tucked into the forested landscape of Promised Land State Park (Designation: SP). The falls sit on land owned by OTHS and are managed by SPR, offering a quiet spot for photographers and day hikers who appreciate intimate woodland scenery rather than dramatic alpine drops. Its compact scale and shaded setting make Little Falls a pleasant half-day destination for people exploring the park’s network of trails. The approach to the falls is straightforward but rewarding: a short hike through mixed hardwoods that opens to the creek and the waterfall’s modest plunge. Because the route lies entirely within Promised Land State Park, you’ll find a peaceful, park-managed setting that’s best enjoyed on foot—bring a camera and expect a comfortable, natural experience rather than a heavily developed viewpoint.
The Setting
Little Falls sits at 1,673 feet within Promised Land State Park, fed by the Lackawaxen River, in the hills of Pennsylvania.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Little Falls is an out-and-back route of approximately 2.4 miles with about 350 feet of elevation gain. It’s rated moderate in difficulty, with steady uphill and downhill sections rather than technical obstacles, and follows forested parkland within Promised Land State Park. The path is short enough for a half-day outing and suitable for hikers comfortable with moderate grades; families with older children will typically find it manageable.
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 Little Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Little Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting, as the waterfall flow is typically stronger due to seasonal rainfall.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall, especially after rain. Stay on marked trails to avoid getting lost.
Current Water Conditions
222 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 65 years of record
2.25 ft
Water depth at gauge
60°F
ColdBracing — limit time in water
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year. Water temperature is a bracing 60 degrees F, limit your time in the water.
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 Lackawaxen River at Hawley, PA (19 km away).
Today
Moderate
240 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Moderate
226 cfs
8/10Wed
Moderate
251 cfs
9/10Thu
Moderate
235 cfs
9/10Fri
Moderate
249 cfs
6/10Sat
Moderate
256 cfs
6/10Sun
Moderate
261 cfs
6/10Best window: Wed — moderate flow, mostly sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late February to mid 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 Wallenpaupack Lake Estates 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 shows the creek losing roughly 52 feet through Little Falls over a long run of ledges. Elevation at the pin is about 1,677 feet.
The ground changes about 68 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 22 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
- 1,677 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 52 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
Little Falls is located near the town of Prompton, Pennsylvania, within Prompton State Park. The waterfall can be accessed via trails within the park.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at Prompton State Park, with designated lots near the trailheads.
Elevation
1,673 feet above sea level
Coordinates
41.315923° N, -75.237957° W
Land Management
Managed by SPR
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be muddy after rain. Bring insect repellent during warmer months. Early mornings or weekdays are less crowded.
Where to Stay
Comfort Inn Pocono Lakes Region
Serenity Falls - Stylish 4Bdr Mountain Retreat, Hot Tub, Pool
Brookview Manor Inn
Silver Birches Resort
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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Nearby Campground
Alosa Campsites
21.1 miles away · 6 sites
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.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Prompton Lake, hiking trails within Prompton State Park, and nearby Honesdale for dining and shopping.
Wildlife
The area is home to various bird species, deer, and small mammals. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the trail.
Cities near Little Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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