Sheldon Reynolds Falls
Pennsylvania • 36 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 Sheldon Reynolds Falls
Sheldon Reynolds Falls is a 36-foot cascade tucked into the heart of Ricketts Glen State Park, where the famous Falls Trail threads through old-growth hemlock and maple forests. The falls are one of the 21 named waterfalls along the Falls Trail, making this stretch a favorite for photographers and nature lovers who want to experience a concentrated run of scenic drops and pools. The waterfall sits on state park lands (land unit: Ricketts Glen State Park), with the site recorded under land owner OTHS and managed by SPR. Reaching Sheldon Reynolds Falls rewards hikers with a sense of remoteness despite its popularity. The waterfall is often encountered near the midpoint of the Falls Trail and makes a pleasant stop for a picnic or a short rest before continuing to nearby cascades. The setting is lush and photogenic year-round, especially in spring runoff and autumn leaf color, and the overall route is best enjoyed by those prepared for rugged, natural terrain.
The Setting
Sheldon Reynolds Falls sits at 1,473 feet within Ricketts Glenn State Park, fed by the Muncy Creek, in the foothills of Pennsylvania. The falls drop 36 feet.
Height: 36 feet
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
B Reynolds Falls (40 ft) lies 0.3 miles to the north. Also nearby: R B Ricketts Falls (36 ft, 0.4 mi) and Harrison Wright Falls (27 ft, 0.1 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The Falls Trail to Sheldon Reynolds Falls is an out-and-back route of roughly 2.4 miles round-trip with about 350 feet of cumulative elevation gain, typically rated moderate. Expect a rocky, uneven surface with rooty tread, stone steps, and several short but steep sections—the footing can be slick when wet. The trail passes a succession of waterfalls; Sheldon Reynolds Falls is reached near the mid-point of the route. Good footwear and steady footing are recommended for this moderately strenuous, scenic hike.
What to Expect
The falls drop 36 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 Sheldon Reynolds Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Sheldon Reynolds Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting Sheldon Reynolds Falls, as the water flow is typically strongest during these seasons. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter provides a unique view of frozen waterfalls, though the trail may be closed or require special equipment.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
The trail can be slippery, especially after rain or during winter. Exercise caution on rocky sections and near the edges of waterfalls. Always stay on marked trails and avoid climbing on rocks near the falls.
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 (22 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.
1-meter lidar shows the creek losing roughly 149 feet through Sheldon Reynolds Falls over a long run of ledges. Only part of that is the waterfall, which is listed at 36 feet; the rest is the canyon carrying on downstream. Elevation at the pin is about 1,493 feet.
The ground changes about 193 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 53 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
- 1,493 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 149 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
Sheldon Reynolds Falls is located along the Falls Trail in Ricketts Glen State Park. The park is accessible via PA-118, and the Falls Trailhead can be reached from the Lake Rose or Route 118 parking areas.
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.
Elevation
1,473 feet above sea level
Coordinates
41.319209° N, -76.274428° 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 before sunset. Check weather conditions before visiting, as the trail can be hazardous when wet.
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 along the Falls Trail, Lake Jean, and the Glens Natural Area.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Visitors may also see salamanders and other amphibians near the waterfalls.
Cities near Sheldon Reynolds Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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