Day Trips from Reading
← All Reading day tripsDay Trips from Reading: Waterfalls & Swimming Holes
The best waterfalls and swimming holes within driving distance of Reading, PA. Dramatic cascades, hidden gorges, and swimmable falls that reward the drive. Trail info, drive times, and ratings included.
12 waterfalls near Reading
Ganoga Waterfall
PA 18656, USA
Just 2 hrs 17 min from Reading, 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 32 min from Reading, 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 23 min from Reading, 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.
Harriman State Park
Southfields, NY 10975
Just 2 hrs 27 min from Reading, 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 8 min from Reading, 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 36 min from Reading, 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 56 min from Reading, 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.
Salt Springs State Park
Montrose, PA 18801
Just 2 hrs 45 min from Reading, 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.
Hickory Run State Park
White Haven, PA 18661
Just 1 hr 28 min from Reading, 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.
Hackers Falls
Milford, PA 18337
Just 2 hrs 15 min from Reading, 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.
Rocks State Park - Kilgore Falls/ Falling Branch Area
Pylesville, MD 21132
Just 1 hr 28 min from Reading, 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 1 hr 20 min from Reading, 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 Reading
What are the best waterfalls near Reading, PA?
The best waterfalls near Reading 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 Reading?
Some waterfalls near Reading 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 Reading?
Difficulty varies widely. Some waterfalls near Reading 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 Reading?
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