Ricketts Glen State Park Park

Address: Ricketts Glen State Park, 695 State Route 487, Benton, PA 17814

Website: https://www.dcnr.pa.gov/StateParks/FindAPark/RickettsGlenStatePark/Pages/default.aspx

Hours: Park open year-round; office hours vary seasonally

Admission: Daily vehicle fee / Pennsylvania State Parks pass may apply (typically $8 per vehicle)

Ricketts Glen State Park is a Pennsylvania state park best known for a concentrated series of waterfalls set in a forested gorge area. The park is noted for its waterfalls and hiking opportunities.

A main attraction is the network of 22 named waterfalls concentrated in the Glens Natural Area, accessed via the Falls Trail system that traverses steep forest ravines. Trails vary in length and difficulty and are popular with hikers and photographers seeking waterfall views.

The area was assembled and developed for public recreation in the 20th century, with infrastructure and trails established to provide managed access to the glens and waterfalls. Management focuses on balancing visitor access with protection of the gorge and watercourses.

The park lies in northeastern Pennsylvania within the Appalachian Plateau region, with trailheads and facilities accessed from local roads; Lake Jean and nearby small towns serve as common entry points.

• Trail difficulty: The Falls Trail is rugged and can be steep and slippery; proper footwear and caution are essential, especially after rain.
• Best times to visit: Peak foliage viewing is a major draw in autumn; spring and early summer are best for higher water flow at the falls.

What to See#

• Glens Natural Area and Falls Trail: The Glens Natural Area contains a series of waterfalls clustered along steep, forested ravines; the area includes 22 named waterfalls of varying heights.
• Lake Jean recreation area: Lake Jean provides a developed recreation area with a lakefront beach, picnic facilities and campgrounds used as a base for exploring the park.

Ricketts Glen State Park is about 20 miles (30-40 minutes) southwest of Wilkes-Barre/Scranton region. The park’s main address is on PA Route 487 near Benton; follow state park signs to the main Falls Trail parking areas (Ganoga Glen parking is one of the primary lots).

• Start the Falls Trail counterclockwise early to avoid the steep, rocky climbs on the return.
• Bring a printed map - some trail junctions have minimal signage and cell service is spotty.
• Do not swim near the waterfalls; currents and slippery rocks are hazardous.