May 15, 2024
Known as the "Niagara of Pennsylvania," Bushkill Falls is among the Keystone State's most famous scenic attractions. This unique series of eight waterfalls, nestled deep in the wooded Pocono Mountains, is accessible through a network of hiking trails and bridges and provides visitors with fabulous views of the falls and the surrounding forest.
Bushkill Falls is more than just a quick stop to see the majestic falls; it's a must-visit destination brimming with activities for a full day of fun and adventure. From hiking trails, wildlife demonstrations and immersive exhibits to mining for gemstones and navigating your way through a thrilling maze, there's something for everyone to enjoy — with plenty of delicious food and snack options to keep you going!
Here is everything you need to know for a fun-packed day at Bushkill Falls:
High in the uplands of the Pocono Mountains, streams of crystal pure water bubble up through rifts in primeval rock. These are the headwaters of Bushkill Creek, a great marsh alive with the call of wild birds. As the waters begin their descent toward the Delaware River far below, they move ever faster toward Bushkill Falls, rushing over Pennell Falls, then between rocky walls through the Upper Canyon and Laurel Glen.
Suddenly the stream drops over the edge of a 100-foot cliff, the majestic Main Falls. From the deep pool at the bottom, banked by ferns, mosses, and wildflowers, the creek drops another seventy feet through a long and spectacular gorge strewn with gigantic boulders. Trails and bridges lace the area, affording splendid views.Nature hikers are enthusiastic about the walk to the Bridal Veil Falls. Here you will follow a nice trail by the Pond Run stream. The stream soon flows into the Little Bushkill where the mountain path leads deep into the forest. Spring-fed waters tumble down the mountainside in a series of three lovely falls so misty in their appearance they are named for brides of love.
As you hike the trails, or walk the grounds of Bushkill Falls, you'll have a first-hand opportunity to see the wonders of nature close at hand. The Pennsylvania Poconos are home to a wide variety of local and migratory bird species including song birds, ducks and geese, wild turkey, and birds of prey such as owls, hawks, and eagles. Other area wildlife include the black bear, white-tail deer, bobcat, red and grey fox, coyote, raccoon, skunk, opossum, rabbit, squirrel, woodchuck, and chipmunk.
To enhance your hiking experience, pick up an official trail map that includes 20 "control points" that can be found on the trails. When five, ten, or twenty locations have been found and verified, you will become eligible for a monthly prize drawing.If you enjoy fishing, the shoreline of Twin lakes is the perfect place to cast your lure, kick back, and enjoy the day taking in nature.
Bushkill Falls has three exhibits for you to explore.
• Pennsylvania Wildlife Exhibit
Located at the entrance of Bushkill Falls, this exhibit features fascinating
displays about the area's indigenous wildlife.
• Native American Exhibit
This exhibit allows visitors to step into the life-size longhouse, look up
through the smoke hole, and imagine cooking and sleeping in such a
structure.
At Bushkill Falls, everyone in your family can have fun pretending to be a "gold miner" for the day. Pick up a bag of “mining rough” and head to the sluice to sift the contents of your bag through a trough of circulating water and uncover all sorts of gems you can take home.
Mining for Gems at Bushkill Falls
Stop by the Bushkill Fall Mining Co. Maze to release your competitive side and sharpen your navigation skills! Upon entering the maze, you receive a passport with your start time. Maze runners must locate four checkpoints, each with a letter they punch on their passport. The object is to spell the word “GOLD” and then exit as quickly as possible. Guests with the fastest times win prizes ranging from stickers to removable tattoos and buttons.
Bushkill Falls Co. Maze
After spending the day exploring nature, head to the Snack Bar for beverages, burgers, pizza, popcorn, sandwiches, and wraps. For dessert, visit the Fudge Kitchen for a wide variety of fudge flavors, hand dipped ice cream, gourmet chocolates, and candy. You can also bring your own favorites and enjoy a family picnic at any of the picnic areas located throughout Bushkill Falls. There is also a children’s playground for kids to enjoy nearby.
The shops at Bushkill Falls are located near the entrance of the trails. Just look for the cabin-style buildings, all arranged in a small village like setting. Choose from a variety of souvenirs at the Main Stand, nature-oriented items at Nature Nook, Native American mementos at Trading Post, and hiking apparel, t-shirts, and hats at Outfitters.
If you’re looking for a truly unique place to spend the day with your family, Bushkill Falls offers an experience like no other. So, be sure to visit this spring or summer and immerse yourself in the beauty and rich history that await you in the heart of the Pocono Mountains.
Operating hours vary depending on season, day of week, and weather. Generally, Bushkill Falls opens at 9 a.m. and closes between 4 and 7 p.m. Bushkill Falls is closed December through March.
