LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Pinchot Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainDifficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Pinchot Falls
Pinchot Falls is a small, picturesque cascade tucked into a pocket of lush forest in Pennsylvania. The falls offer a peaceful, photogenic setting for hikers and nature lovers looking for quiet solitude among ferns and hardwoods. Though modest in size, the slide and pool at the base make for a rewarding destination after a short trek. The falls sit within the privately owned Milford Experimental Forest, a designated forest research unit managed by a nonprofit organization (NGO). Because the site is relatively remote and framed by mature forest, visits feel pleasantly tucked away — ideal for birdwatching, short nature breaks, and low-key photography outings.
The Setting
Pinchot Falls sits at 659 feet within Milford Experimental Forest, fed by the Delaware River, in the foothills of Pennsylvania.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Raymondskill Falls, the tallest waterfall in Pennsylvania at 150 feet, lies 2.9 miles to the southwest. Also nearby: Dingmans Falls (130 ft, 7.6 mi) and Silverthread Falls (80 ft, 7.5 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Pinchot Falls is a 2.4-mile out-and-back with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain and is rated moderate. The routed path travels through forested terrain and can be uneven in places, with short sections of moderate grade; hikers should expect natural tread rather than paved surfaces. Overall it’s a relatively short hike that rewards effort with the secluded waterfall at the end.
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 Pinchot Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Pinchot Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, 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
Visitors should exercise caution on uneven trails and be aware of slippery rocks near the waterfall. Always stay on marked trails and avoid venturing too close to the edge of the falls.
Current Water Conditions
3,340 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 86 years of record
6.08 ft
Water depth at gauge
63°F
CoolRefreshing for swimming
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing higher than usual for this time of year. Water temperature is a refreshing 63 degrees F, good for a quick swim. Expect crystal clear visibility and excellent dissolved oxygen levels. PH is normal at 8.4 and mineral content is typical.
Water Quality
Dissolved Oxygen
ExcellentSupports aquatic life
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 Delaware River at Montague NJ (3 km away).
Today
Strong
3607 cfs
8/10Tomorrow
Strong
3390 cfs
9/10Wed
Moderate
3340 cfs
9/10Thu
Moderate
3356 cfs
9/10Fri
Strong
3469 cfs
8/10Sat
Strong
3813 cfs
8/10Sun
Strong
3651 cfs
8/10Best window: Tomorrow — strong flow, areas of fog then partly sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late February to late 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 Milford 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 183 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 649 feet.
The whole reach is steep: about 151 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 87 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face southwest and glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 649 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 183 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southwest
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Pinchot Falls is located in the Pinchot State Forest in Pennsylvania. Access typically involves navigating forest roads, and visitors should check local maps or GPS for the most accurate directions.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking may be available at nearby trailheads or along forest roads, but specific parking details are not well-documented.
Hours
Elevation
659 feet above sea level
Coordinates
41.327871° N, -74.822667° W
Land Management
Managed by NGO
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy footwear as the trail may be uneven. Bring insect repellent during warmer months, and check weather conditions before visiting. Cell service may be limited in the area.
Where to Stay
Myer Country Motel
Pocono Mountain Villas MOD Collection by Sonesta
Serenity Falls - Stylish 4Bdr Mountain Retreat, Hot Tub, Pool
Hampton Inn Matamoras
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.
Nearby Campground
Alosa Campsites
18.7 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
Other attractions in Pinchot State Forest include hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and opportunities for birdwatching.
Wildlife
The area is home to various wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Visitors should be cautious of ticks and other insects.
Cities near Pinchot Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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