Day Trips from Philadelphia
← All Philadelphia day tripsDay Trips from Philadelphia: Waterfalls & Swimming Holes
The best waterfalls and swimming holes within driving distance of Philadelphia, PA. Dramatic cascades, hidden gorges, and swimmable falls that reward the drive. Trail info, drive times, and ratings included.
12 waterfalls near Philadelphia
Ganoga Waterfall
PA 18656, USA
Just 2 hrs 34 min from Philadelphia, 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 52 min from Philadelphia, 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.
Buttermilk Falls
PA 18255, USA
Just 1 hr 53 min from Philadelphia, 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.
Croton Gorge Park
Croton-On-Hudson, NY 10520
Just 2 hrs 21 min from Philadelphia, rated 4.8 stars by 5,104 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 35 min from Philadelphia, 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.
Cascade Falls
MD 21075, USA
Just 1 hr 60 min from Philadelphia, 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.
Hickory Run State Park
White Haven, PA 18661
Just 1 hr 39 min from Philadelphia, 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.
Harriman State Park
Southfields, NY 10975
Just 2 hrs 4 min from Philadelphia, 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.
Seven Tubs Recreation Area - Pinchot Forest District
Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702
Just 1 hr 47 min from Philadelphia, 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.
Salt Springs State Park
Montrose, PA 18801
Just 2 hrs 57 min from Philadelphia, 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 1 hr 41 min from Philadelphia, 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.
Hemlock Falls
510 Rte 510, South Orange Village
Just 1 hr 39 min from Philadelphia, rated 4.6 stars by 934 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Waterfalls Day Trips from Philadelphia
What are the best waterfalls near Philadelphia, PA?
The best waterfalls near Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia?
Some waterfalls near Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia?
Difficulty varies widely. Some waterfalls near Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia?
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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