Day Trips from Bethlehem
← All Bethlehem day tripsDay Trips from Bethlehem: Waterfalls & Swimming Holes
The best waterfalls and swimming holes within driving distance of Bethlehem, PA. Dramatic cascades, hidden gorges, and swimmable falls that reward the drive. Trail info, drive times, and ratings included.
12 waterfalls near Bethlehem
Ganoga Waterfall
PA 18656, USA
Just 1 hr 53 min from Bethlehem, rated 4.9 stars by 102 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Buttermilk Falls
PA 18255, USA
Just 1 hr 12 min from Bethlehem, rated 4.8 stars by 128 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Lehigh Gorge State Park - Rockport Access
Weatherly, PA 18255
Just 1 hr 11 min from Bethlehem, rated 4.8 stars by 2,524 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Lehigh Gorge State Park
PA 18229, USA
Just 54 min from Bethlehem, rated 4.8 stars by 322 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Upper Rock Run Falls
Trout Run, PA 17771
Just 2 hrs 50 min from Bethlehem, rated 4.7 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Seven Tubs Recreation Area - Pinchot Forest District
Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702
Just 1 hr 6 min from Bethlehem, rated 4.7 stars by 2,101 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Hackers Falls
Milford, PA 18337
Just 1 hr 25 min from Bethlehem, rated 4.7 stars by 263 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Harriman State Park
Southfields, NY 10975
Just 1 hr 36 min from Bethlehem, rated 4.7 stars by 4,643 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Cascade Falls
MD 21075, USA
Just 2 hrs 48 min from Bethlehem, rated 4.7 stars by 717 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Salt Springs State Park
Montrose, PA 18801
Just 2 hrs 6 min from Bethlehem, rated 4.7 stars by 1,003 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Rocks State Park - Kilgore Falls/ Falling Branch Area
Pylesville, MD 21132
Just 2 hrs 17 min from Bethlehem, rated 4.6 stars by 685 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Nockamixon State Park Waterfall
PA 18951, USA
Just 33 min from Bethlehem, rated 4.5 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Waterfalls Day Trips from Bethlehem
What are the best waterfalls near Bethlehem, PA?
The best waterfalls near Bethlehem range from roadside cascades to backcountry falls requiring a hike. Check the cards above for top-rated options with drive times and real visitor ratings.
Are there swimmable waterfalls near Bethlehem?
Some waterfalls near Bethlehem have designated swimming areas at their base. Always check current conditions and posted rules before swimming. State park waterfalls with established trails are generally the safest options.
How hard are the hikes to waterfalls near Bethlehem?
Difficulty varies widely. Some waterfalls near Bethlehem are visible from parking areas or short boardwalks. Others require moderate to strenuous hikes of 2-6 miles round trip. Check individual trail descriptions before heading out.
When is the best time to see waterfalls near Bethlehem?
Spring (March-May) typically offers the highest water flow after snowmelt and rain. Waterfalls are beautiful year-round though. Winter ice formations are dramatic, and fall foliage framing a waterfall is hard to beat.
Don't know where to go?
Tell us your interests, budget, and how far you want to drive. We'll find the perfect trip for you.
Surprise me