LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Tomhicken Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainDifficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
200 ft
About Tomhicken Falls
Tomhicken Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in Pennsylvania, known for its serene surroundings and natural beauty. It is part of the Nescopeck State Park area and offers visitors a chance to enjoy a peaceful hike through forested trails.
The Setting
Tomhicken Falls sits at 1,276 feet along the L Nescopeck Creek Tributary, in the foothills of Pennsylvania.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 200 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Tomhicken Falls winds through a lush forest with a mix of flat and moderately steep sections. The path may be rocky and uneven in places, so sturdy footwear is recommended. The waterfall is surrounded by a tranquil setting, making it a rewarding destination for hikers.
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 Tomhicken Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Tomhicken Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the waterfall is typically at its fullest due to snowmelt and rainfall. Fall offers stunning foliage, while summer provides lush greenery.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
The trail may be slippery after rain, and there are some rocky sections that require careful footing. Visitors should stay on marked trails and avoid getting too close to the edge of the falls.
Current Water Conditions
45 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 9 years of record
2.10 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 L Nescopeck Creek Tributary near Freeland, PA (16 km away).
Today
Moderate
51 cfs
4/10Tomorrow
Moderate
45 cfs
8/10Sun
Moderate
45 cfs
5/10Mon
Moderate
43 cfs
8/10Tue
Low
55 cfs
6/10Wed
Low
62 cfs
6/10Thu
Low
56 cfs
6/10Best window: Tomorrow — moderate flow, sunny (trip score 8/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early April to late April, 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 Weston 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 155 feet of drop through Tomhicken Falls, stretched along the creek rather than stacked in one wall. The brink sits at about 1,278 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 165 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 54 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing southwest, 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
- 1,278 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 155 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
Tomhicken Falls can be accessed via trails within the Nescopeck State Park area. Visitors should use GPS to navigate to the park's main entrance and follow signage or trail maps to reach the falls.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at designated areas within Nescopeck State Park. Visitors should check for any parking restrictions or fees before arriving.
Elevation
1,276 feet above sea level
Coordinates
40.917031° N, -76.140767° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Start your hike early to avoid crowds and ensure you have enough daylight for the return trip. Bring plenty of water and wear sturdy hiking shoes. Check weather conditions before heading out, as trails may become slippery after rain.
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With 2.0 miles and 200 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.
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.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Where to Stay
Comfort Inn & Suites Barnesville - Frackville
Tru By Hilton Hazleton
Comfort Inn West Hazleton
Super 8 by Wyndham Mifflinville Near Bloomsburg
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
Nescopeck State Park offers additional hiking trails, wildlife viewing opportunities, and picnic areas. The nearby town of Hazleton has restaurants and shops for visitors to explore.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Visitors may also encounter native plant species along the trail.
Cities near Tomhicken Falls
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