Day Trips from Lancaster
← All Lancaster day tripsDay Trips from Lancaster: Waterfalls & Swimming Holes
The best waterfalls and swimming holes within driving distance of Lancaster, PA. Dramatic cascades, hidden gorges, and swimmable falls that reward the drive. Trail info, drive times, and ratings included.
12 waterfalls near Lancaster
Ganoga Waterfall
PA 18656, USA
Just 2 hrs 43 min from Lancaster, 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 2 hrs 1 min from Lancaster, 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.
Ricketts Glen State Park
Benton, PA 17814
Just 2 hrs 37 min from Lancaster, rated 4.8 stars by 5,699 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 53 min from Lancaster, 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.
Buttermilk Falls
PA 18255, USA
Just 2 hrs 2 min from Lancaster, 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.
Seven Tubs Recreation Area - Pinchot Forest District
Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702
Just 2 hrs 5 min from Lancaster, 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.
Hickory Run State Park
White Haven, PA 18661
Just 1 hr 57 min from Lancaster, rated 4.7 stars by 4,626 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 43 min from Lancaster, 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.
Upper Rock Run Falls
Trout Run, PA 17771
Just 2 hrs 51 min from Lancaster, 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 49 min from Lancaster, 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 41 min from Lancaster, 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.
Nockamixon State Park Waterfall
PA 18951, USA
Just 1 hr 51 min from Lancaster, 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 Lancaster
What are the best waterfalls near Lancaster, PA?
The best waterfalls near Lancaster 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 Lancaster?
Some waterfalls near Lancaster 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 Lancaster?
Difficulty varies widely. Some waterfalls near Lancaster 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 Lancaster?
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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