Ricketts Glen State Park Hiking
Discover the Beauty of Ricketts Glen State Park
Ricketts Glen State Park is one of the most beautiful and popular hiking destinations in Pennsylvania. Located in northeastern Pennsylvania, the park boasts 13,193 acres of natural beauty, including 22 named waterfalls and over 26 miles of hiking trails. With its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich history, Ricketts Glen State Park is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts, families, and history buffs alike.
Top Attractions
The waterfalls are the main attraction at Ricketts Glen State Park. The Falls Trail is a must-visit for hikers, featuring 21 waterfalls along a 7.2-mile loop trail. The most famous waterfall is the 94-foot Ganoga Falls, but other must-see falls include Mohawk, F.L. Ricketts, and Huron Falls. If you’re not up for a strenuous hike, you can still see several waterfalls from the picnic areas and parking lots.
Hidden Gems
If you’re looking for a quieter hiking experience, head to the Highland Trail or the Grand View Trail. Both offer breathtaking views of the park’s mountains and valleys, without the crowds of the Falls Trail. Another hidden gem is the Lake Rose Trail, a 1.5-mile loop trail around Lake Rose that offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding forest.
Food Scene
Ricketts Glen State Park has several picnic areas with grills, making it easy to enjoy a meal in the great outdoors. If you’re looking for a meal after your hike, nearby towns like Benton and Bloomsburg have a variety of dining options, from casual diners to upscale restaurants.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Admission to Ricketts Glen State Park is free, but there is a fee for parking. If you’re planning to visit several times, consider purchasing an annual Pennsylvania State Parks pass, which gives you unlimited access to all state parks for a year. Camping is also a budget-friendly option, with campsites starting at just $15 per night.
Outdoor Adventures
In addition to hiking, Ricketts Glen State Park offers a variety of outdoor activities. Fishing is popular in the park’s streams and Lake Jean, with several species of trout and bass available. Boating and swimming are also popular in Lake Jean. The park has several miles of mountain biking trails, and in the winter, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling are popular activities.
Family-Friendly Activities
Ricketts Glen State Park is a great destination for families with kids of all ages. In addition to hiking and outdoor activities, the park has several playgrounds and picnic areas. The Environmental Education Center offers programs for kids and families, including guided hikes, birdwatching, and nature crafts.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for a unique experience, consider visiting the park in the fall, when the leaves turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow. The park also offers guided wildflower walks in the spring, and birdwatching is popular throughout the year.
Natural Wonders
Ricketts Glen State Park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including black bears, bobcats, and coyotes. Birdwatchers will love the park’s variety of bird species, including woodpeckers, warblers, and raptors. The park’s forests are also home to a variety of wildflowers, including trillium, Dutchman’s breeches, and bloodroot.
Vibrant Nightlife
Ricketts Glen State Park’s nightlife is all about stargazing. With its remote location and lack of light pollution, the park is the perfect spot to see the stars. The park occasionally hosts stargazing events, but you can also head out on your own and enjoy the night sky.
Local Markets
The nearby town of Bloomsburg has a weekly farmers market, where you can find fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal products from local farmers and craftsmen. The market is open on Saturdays from May through October.
Beaches and Mountains
Ricketts Glen State Park is located in the Endless Mountains region of Pennsylvania, so you can combine your hiking trip with a visit to nearby mountain towns like Eagles Mere and Laporte. If you’re looking for a beach day, head to nearby Lake Jean, which has a sandy beach and swimming area.
Cultural Immersion
Ricketts Glen State Park’s rich history is on display at the Colonel Ricketts Hard Cider Winery, located just outside the park. The winery is housed in a historic barn and offers tastings of their hard cider, made from locally grown apples.
Art and Music Scene
While Ricketts Glen State Park doesn’t have a formal art or music scene, nearby towns like Bloomsburg and Lewisburg have several galleries and performance spaces. Check out the Artspace Gallery in Bloomsburg or the Campus Theatre in Lewisburg for a dose of culture.
Walking Tours
The best way to explore Ricketts Glen State Park is on foot, but if you’re looking for a guided experience, the park occasionally offers guided hikes and nature walks. Check the park’s website for upcoming events.
Architectural Marvels
The park’s historic district is home to several historic buildings, including the Ricketts Glen Hotel and the Colonel Ricketts Mansion. Both buildings are listed on the National Register of Historic Places and offer a glimpse into the park’s rich history.
Historical Sites
In addition to the historic district, Ricketts Glen State Park is home to several other historic sites, including the remnants of the old Ricketts family sawmill and the remains of the old Erie Railroad bed.
Biking Routes
The park has several miles of mountain biking trails, including the 7-mile-long Highland Trail. The park’s roads are also popular with road cyclists, with several challenging climbs and scenic routes.
Wellness Retreats
Ricketts Glen State Park’s natural beauty and peaceful surroundings make it the perfect destination for a wellness retreat. Consider renting a cabin or campsite and spending a few days immersed in nature. The park also occasionally hosts yoga and meditation events.
Adventure Sports
Ricketts Glen State Park is a great destination for adventure sports enthusiasts. In addition to hiking, the park offers rock climbing, rappelling, and whitewater rafting on nearby rivers.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful getaway or an adventurous outdoor experience, Ricketts Glen State Park has something for everyone. Start planning your visit now and discover the beauty of northeastern Pennsylvania.