Before you go
This is active hunting land. From Oct 1 to Jan 31 and Apr 20 to May 31, Pennsylvania requires everyone on State Game Lands, including hikers, to wear at least 250 square inches of fluorescent orange (or an orange hat), Sundays included.
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
360 ft
About Rattlesnake Falls
Rattlesnake Falls is a two-tier cascade of roughly 20 feet on a small tributary of Rattlesnake Creek in State Game Lands 221 above Mountainhome. The hike follows a gated old forest road uphill for about 1.1 miles to a clearing, then drops down a short, very steep path to the base of the upper falls.
The Setting
Rattlesnake Falls sits at 1,622 feet within State Game Lands 221, in the hills of Pennsylvania. The falls drop 20 feet.
Height: 20 feet
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Devils Hole Falls (12 ft) lies 2.2 miles to the southwest.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back trail gains 360 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
From the lot, follow Rattlesnake Creek Road, a gated and unblazed old forest road, across an early unbridged crossing of Rattlesnake Creek and uphill about 1.1 miles. At a grassy junction, turn left and walk about 140 yards to a clearing with fire rings. A short, very steep path from the right side of the clearing descends to the base of the upper falls.
What to Expect
The falls drop a gentle 20 feet. 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 Rattlesnake Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Dogs are allowed on State Game Lands but must be under your control at all times; a leash is the safe choice on active hunting land.
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Rattlesnake Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring snowmelt (March to May) or after heavy rain. The stream is small, so expect low flow in late summer and dry spells.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
The creek crossing near the start can mean wet feet in high water. The last descent of about 30 feet over rock and roots is steep and slick, and any ropes there are old and unmaintained. The lower tier is hard to reach; stay at the upper viewing area.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Mountainhome hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Take PA 191/390 north into Mountainhome. Just before the diner, bear left to stay on PA 191 North. After 0.1 mile turn left onto Monomonock Road, then bear right onto Pleasant Ridge Road and follow it to the State Game Lands lot where it ends.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Park in the small Game Commission gravel lot at the dead end of Pleasant Ridge Road. Don't use or pass the yellow gate on the right by the house-number sign; that's private property.
Elevation
1,622 feet above sea level
Coordinates
41.182580° N, -75.306120° W
Land Management
Managed by Pennsylvania Game Commission
Visitor Tips & Gear
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
With 2.4 miles and 360 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail.
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.
Osprey Daylite Daypack
Light, organized, and just the right size for a day hike — fits water, snacks, and layers.
Where to Stay
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
Cities near Rattlesnake Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
LiDAR
Other waterfalls named Rattlesnake Falls
1 other waterfall shares this name across the U.S.
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