Day Trips from Harrisburg
← All Harrisburg day tripsDay Trips from Harrisburg: Waterfalls & Swimming Holes
The best waterfalls and swimming holes within driving distance of Harrisburg, PA. Dramatic cascades, hidden gorges, and swimmable falls that reward the drive. Trail info, drive times, and ratings included.
12 waterfalls near Harrisburg
Ganoga Waterfall
PA 18656, USA
Just 2 hrs 3 min from Harrisburg, 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.
Lehigh Gorge State Park - Rockport Access
Weatherly, PA 18255
Just 1 hr 37 min from Harrisburg, 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 1 hr 40 min from Harrisburg, 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.
Cacapon State Park
Berkeley Springs, WV 25411
Just 2 hrs 4 min from Harrisburg, rated 4.8 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.
Salt Springs State Park
Montrose, PA 18801
Just 2 hrs 53 min from Harrisburg, 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.
Cascade Falls
MD 21075, USA
Just 1 hr 38 min from Harrisburg, 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.
Seven Tubs Recreation Area - Pinchot Forest District
Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702
Just 1 hr 42 min from Harrisburg, 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.
Upper Rock Run Falls
Trout Run, PA 17771
Just 2 hrs 11 min from Harrisburg, 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.
Rocks State Park - Kilgore Falls/ Falling Branch Area
Pylesville, MD 21132
Just 1 hr 8 min from Harrisburg, 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.
Cunningham Falls State Park
Thurmont, MD 21788
Just 1 hr 6 min from Harrisburg, rated 4.6 stars by 2,006 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.
Kilgore Falls
Pylesville, MD 21132
Just 1 hr 9 min from Harrisburg, rated 4.6 stars by 417 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.
Nockamixon State Park Waterfall
PA 18951, USA
Just 1 hr 48 min from Harrisburg, 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 Harrisburg
What are the best waterfalls near Harrisburg, PA?
The best waterfalls near Harrisburg 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 Harrisburg?
Some waterfalls near Harrisburg 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 Harrisburg?
Difficulty varies widely. Some waterfalls near Harrisburg 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 Harrisburg?
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.
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