Day Trips from State College
← All State College day tripsDay Trips from State College: Waterfalls & Swimming Holes
The best waterfalls and swimming holes within driving distance of State College, PA. Dramatic cascades, hidden gorges, and swimmable falls that reward the drive. Trail info, drive times, and ratings included.
11 waterfalls near State College
Ganoga Waterfall
PA 18656, USA
Just 1 hr 56 min from State College, 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.
Rainbow Falls - Trough Creek State Park
PA 16657, USA
Just 1 hr 18 min from State College, rated 4.9 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.
Cucumber Falls
Dunbar, PA 15431
Just 2 hrs 33 min from State College, rated 4.8 stars by 308 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.
Cavern Cascade
Watkins Glen, NY 14891
Just 2 hrs 36 min from State College, 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.
Forbes State Forest, Blue Hole
PA 15557, USA
Just 2 hrs 14 min from State College, 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.
Lehigh Gorge State Park - Rockport Access
Weatherly, PA 18255
Just 2 hrs 9 min from State College, 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.
Rainbow Falls
Watkins Glen, NY 14891
Just 2 hrs 40 min from State College, rated 4.8 stars by 1,147 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Eagle Cliff Falls
Montour Falls, NY 14865
Just 2 hrs 40 min from State College, rated 4.8 stars by 279 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.
Stony Brook State Park
Dansville, NY 14437
Just 2 hrs 53 min from State College, rated 4.7 stars by 2,913 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 2 hrs 7 min from State College, 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 1 hr 38 min from State College, 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Waterfalls Day Trips from State College
What are the best waterfalls near State College, PA?
The best waterfalls near State College 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 State College?
Some waterfalls near State College 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 State College?
Difficulty varies widely. Some waterfalls near State College 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 State College?
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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