How to Hike Ricketts Glen State Park Safely

Ricketts Glen State Park, nestled in the rugged forests of northeastern Pennsylvania, is a sanctuary of ancient hemlock groves, cascading waterfalls, and pristine trails that draw hikers from across the country. With its famed Falls Traila 7.2-mile loop featuring 21 named waterfallsthis park offers one of the most spectacular hiking experiences in the Northeast. Yet, its beauty comes with inherent risks: steep, slippery rock faces, narrow ledges, unpredictable weather, and remote sections with no cell service. Hiking Ricketts Glen State Park safely is not merely about enjoying the scenery; its about respecting the terrain, preparing thoroughly, and making informed decisions that prioritize your well-being and the preservation of this fragile ecosystem. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to ensure your hike is not only memorable but also secure, sustainable, and deeply rewarding.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Plan Your Route in Advance

Before setting foot on any trail, map out your intended route. Ricketts Glens Falls Trail is the most popular and can be hiked as a full loop (7.2 miles) or as a shuttle hike (starting at the Falls Trailhead and ending at the Lake Jean Trailhead, or vice versa). The loop is strenuous, with over 1,600 feet of elevation change and uneven, rocky terrain. For beginners or those with limited time, consider hiking only the first 1015 waterfalls (approximately 2.5 miles one way) and turning back.

Use the official Pennsylvania DCNR trail map, available at the parks visitor center or online. Note trail markers: the Falls Trail is marked with blue blazes. Avoid shortcuts or unofficial pathsthey are unmaintained and increase the risk of injury or getting lost. Always inform someone of your planned route and estimated return time.

2. Choose the Right Time of Year

Seasonal conditions dramatically affect safety at Ricketts Glen. Spring (AprilJune) brings the most dramatic waterfalls due to snowmelt and rainfall, but trails are often slick with moss, mud, and standing water. Summer (JulyAugust) offers drier conditions but can be hot and humid, increasing dehydration risk. Fall (SeptemberOctober) is ideal: cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and stable trail conditions. Winter hikes are possible but require advanced mountaineering skills, crampons, and ice axesonly recommended for experienced adventurers.

Avoid hiking during or immediately after heavy rain. The parks sandstone and shale formations become dangerously slippery, and flash flooding can occur in narrow gorges. Check the local forecast and avoid hiking if thunderstorms are predicted. Even distant storms can affect the parks elevation and drainage systems.

3. Pack Essential Gear

Proper gear is non-negotiable. Heres what you must carry:

• Hiking boots with aggressive tread: Trail runners are insufficient. You need ankle support and deep lugs to grip wet rock.
• Waterproof jacket and quick-dry clothing: Mist from waterfalls and sudden showers are common. Avoid cottonit retains moisture and increases hypothermia risk.
• At least 2 liters of water per person: There are no potable water sources along the trail. Carry a filter or purification tablets as backup.
• High-energy snacks: Trail mix, energy bars, dried fruit. Avoid heavy meals that slow you down.
• Headlamp with extra batteries: Even if you plan to finish before dusk, delays can happen. A headlamp is essential for visibility on shaded, rocky sections.
• First aid kit: Include blister treatment, antiseptic wipes, adhesive bandages, tweezers, and any personal medications.
• Map and compass: GPS devices can fail. Know how to read a topographic map.
• Whistle and emergency blanket: In case of injury or getting lost, these can signal rescuers and retain body heat.

Leave non-essentials behind. A heavy backpack increases fatigue and the risk of falls. Pack light, pack smart.

4. Start Early and Allow Ample Time

Begin your hike no later than 8:00 a.m., especially in peak season. The trail is narrow in places, and late arrivals risk congestion at waterfalls and rock scrambles. The full loop typically takes 57 hours for experienced hikers. Allow 89 hours if youre taking photos, resting, or hiking with children or less experienced companions.

Do not attempt to rush. Many accidents occur when hikers try to complete the trail before sunset. The final mile back to the parking lot is often the most treacherous due to fatigue. Plan to finish with at least 90 minutes of daylight remaining.

5. Navigate the Trail with Caution

The Falls Trail is not a typical woodland path. It features:

• Rock scrambles: Sections require using hands to climb over wet, moss-covered boulders. Never rush these areas. Test each foothold before committing your weight.
• Narrow ledges: Some paths run along cliff edges with no guardrails. Stay centered, avoid looking down, and move one foot at a time.
• Steel cables and ladders: Installed in steep sections for safety. Always use both hands. Do not rely on them as a slinguse them for balance only.
• Wet stone steps: Many stairs are carved from natural rock. Step slowly, plant your heel first, and avoid swinging your legs.

When passing other hikers, yield to those ascending. The trail is narrow; side-stepping into brush or mud is dangerous. Always announce your presence politely when approaching from behind.

6. Stay Hydrated and Recognize Signs of Fatigue

Even on cooler days, hiking Ricketts Glen is physically demanding. Drink water every 2030 minutes, even if you dont feel thirsty. Dehydration impairs judgment and coordinationtwo critical factors on rocky terrain.

Signs of fatigue or heat stress include:

• Dark urine or infrequent urination
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Unsteady gait or trembling hands
• Confusion or difficulty concentrating

If you or a companion exhibits these symptoms, stop immediately. Find a shaded, safe spot to rest. Rehydrate slowly and eat a snack. Do not continue until you feel fully recovered. Pushing through exhaustion leads to falls and injuries.

7. Respect Wildlife and Natural Features

Ricketts Glen is home to black bears, white-tailed deer, timber rattlesnakes, and a variety of migratory birds. Keep your distance. Never feed animals, even unintentionallystore food in sealed containers and hang your pack away from sleeping areas if camping.

Do not touch or climb on waterfalls. The rock surfaces are fragile and erode quickly under human pressure. Walking on moss-covered ledges damages centuries-old ecosystems. Stay on marked paths. Your footstep may be the last one on a rare fern or lichen colony.

8. Know How to Respond to Emergencies

If someone is injured:

• Do not move them unless they are in immediate danger (e.g., near a cliff edge or in floodwater).
• Use your whistle to signal for helpthree blasts are the universal distress signal.
• If you have a satellite communicator (e.g., Garmin inReach), activate it immediately.
• Provide as much information as possible to rescuers: location (nearest waterfall name, trail marker number), number of people, nature of injury, and weather conditions.

If you get lost:

• Stop moving. Panicking leads to further disorientation.
• Use your map and compass to reorient. Look for blue blazes or trail markers.
• If you cannot find your way back, stay put. Rescuers are more likely to find you if you remain stationary.
• Use your emergency blanket to retain body heat and make yourself visible.

Cell service is unreliable throughout the park. Do not rely on your phone for navigation or emergencies. Carry a dedicated communication device if possible.

Best Practices

1. Hike in Groups of Three or More

While hiking alone is not prohibited, it significantly increases risk. If you must hike solo, inform park staff of your plans and carry a satellite messenger. Groups of three or more provide redundancy: if one person is injured, another can seek help while a third stays with the injured person.

2. Leave No Trace Principles

Preserve the parks natural beauty by following Leave No Trace guidelines:

• Carry out all trash, including food wrappers and biodegradable items like apple cores.
• Use designated restrooms. If none are available, bury human waste at least 200 feet from water sources and trails.
• Do not pick plants, carve into trees, or remove rocks or waterfalls.
• Stay on durable surfaces. Avoid trampling moss or ferns to widen your path.

These practices ensure future hikers experience the same pristine environment you did.

3. Avoid Distractions

Put your phone on airplane mode and use it only for emergencies. The trail demands full attention. Music, podcasts, or constant photo-taking reduce situational awareness. You may miss a loose rock, a hidden root, or a warning sign of an approaching storm.

4. Teach Children Safe Hiking Habits

If bringing children, set clear rules before entering the trail:

• Stay within arms reach on narrow or steep sections.
• Never run on wet rocks.
• Listen to instructions immediately.
• Carry a small whistle and know how to use it.

Consider bringing a child carrier for toddlers. Older children should be able to follow basic safety protocols. If they show signs of fatigue or fear, turn back early. The waterfalls are spectacularbut not worth risking a childs safety.

5. Monitor Weather Changes

Mountain weather is volatile. A clear morning can turn into a thunderstorm by noon. Watch for:

• Darkening clouds gathering over the ridge
• Sudden drop in temperature
• Wind picking up or leaves flipping over

If you observe these signs, find a safe, elevated area away from waterways and steep slopes. Wait out the storm. Do not attempt to cross streams during heavy rainthey can become raging torrents in minutes.

6. Prepare for Post-Hike Recovery

After your hike, your body needs care:

• Stretch your calves, hamstrings, and lower backthese areas bear the most strain on uneven terrain.
• Check for blisters, ticks, or cuts. Clean and dress any wounds immediately.
• Rehydrate with electrolyte-rich fluids.
• Rest. Your muscles will be sore. Do not schedule another strenuous activity the next day.

Many injuries occur not on the trail, but in the hours after, due to delayed fatigue or overlooked sprains.

Tools and Resources

1. Official Park Resources

The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) maintains the most accurate and up-to-date information:

• Website: dcnr.pa.gov/RickettsGlen trail conditions, closures, alerts
• Visitor Center: Located at the main parking area (Ricketts Glen Road, Lake Jean). Staff provide free maps, weather updates, and safety briefings.
• Trail Alerts: Sign up for email notifications about trail closures due to storms, maintenance, or wildlife activity.

2. Mapping and Navigation Apps

While offline maps are essential, these tools enhance safety:

• AllTrails Pro: Download the Ricketts Glen Falls Trail as an offline map. User reviews often note recent trail conditions (e.g., rockfall on section 5 or moss extremely slick after rain).
• Gaia GPS: Offers topographic layers, elevation profiles, and satellite imagery. Useful for planning alternative routes.
• Google Earth (offline mode): View 3D terrain models of the gorge to understand elevation changes before you hike.

3. Recommended Gear Brands

Not endorsementsjust proven performers in wet, rugged environments:

• Footwear: Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX, Merrell Moab 3 Waterproof
• Backpacks: Osprey Atmos AG 65 (for full-day hikes), Deuter Aircontact Lite 45+10
• Water Filters: Sawyer Squeeze, LifeStraw Peak Series
• Communication: Garmin inReach Mini 2, SPOT Gen4
• Lighting: Black Diamond Spot 400-R, Petzl Actik Core

4. Educational Resources

Deepen your knowledge with these free, authoritative sources:

• REI Co-op: Hiking Safety 101 https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/hiking-safety.html
• National Park Service: Trail Safety Tips https://www.nps.gov/articles/trail-safety.htm
• Wilderness Medical Society: First Aid for Hikers https://www.wms.org/

Consider taking a certified Wilderness First Aid (WFA) course. Many community centers and outdoor retailers offer weekend programs that teach how to handle fractures, hypothermia, and snakebites in remote settings.

5. Weather and Trail Condition Services

Monitor these real-time sources:

• NOAA Weather Forecast for Luzerne County: https://www.weather.gov/ctd
• Mountain Forecast (Ricketts Glen): https://www.mountain-forecast.com/peaks/Ricketts-Glen
• USGS Streamflow Data for Kitchen Creek: https://waterdata.usgs.gov/pa/nwis/rt check for sudden increases in flow rate, indicating upstream flooding.

Even if the forecast says partly cloudy, check streamflow. A rise of 50% in 30 minutes means water is backing up in the gorgeavoid hiking below waterfalls.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Rainy Day Turnaround

In June 2022, a family of four began the Falls Trail at 9:00 a.m. under clear skies. By 11:30 a.m., they reached the 12th waterfall, Ganoga Glen. Dark clouds rolled in. The father, a seasoned hiker, noticed the moss on the rocks was slicker than usual and heard distant thunder. He consulted his weather app and saw a 90% chance of thunderstorms in the next hour. He made the decision to turn back, even though they were only halfway through. They returned to the parking lot just as heavy rain began. Later, park rangers confirmed that a minor rockslide occurred on the 17th waterfall sectionthe exact spot they would have reached in another 45 minutes. Their decision to turn back likely prevented serious injury or worse.

Example 2: The Solo Hiker with a Satellite Messenger

In October 2023, a solo hiker from New Jersey completed the Falls Trail loop and began the return hike to his car. At mile 6.5, he slipped on a wet rock, twisting his ankle. He could not walk. He activated his Garmin inReach, sending his GPS coordinates and a distress message. Park rangers, alerted within 12 minutes, dispatched a team. He was found 40 minutes later, stabilized, and evacuated by ATV. He credited his device and his decision to carry iteven though hed never used it before. I thought I was fine, he later said. But I wasnt.

Example 3: The Group That Ignored the Signs

On a July weekend in 2021, a group of six college students ignored posted warnings about recent rain and attempted the full loop. Two of them, wearing sneakers and carrying only water bottles, pushed forward despite slipping and falling multiple times. At the 19th waterfall, one student lost footing on a moss-covered ledge and slid 15 feet down a steep incline, breaking his femur. The group had no first aid kit, no map, and no way to call for help. It took over three hours for a rescue team to reach them because they couldnt describe their location accurately. The student required surgery and months of rehab. The group later admitted they didnt think it would happen to them.

Example 4: The Photographer Who Waited

A professional photographer visited Ricketts Glen in early September to capture waterfall shots. He arrived at the 7th waterfall, Glen Leigh, and set up his tripod. He noticed the trail behind him was crowded and the rocks were still wet from morning mist. Instead of rushing to the next waterfall, he waited two hours for the sun to break through and the rocks to dry slightly. When he moved on, he took his time, used trekking poles, and avoided the most dangerous ledges. He got the shot of his lifeand returned home without a scratch. His patience and discipline were his greatest tools.

FAQs

Is Ricketts Glen State Park safe for beginners?

Yesbut only if you hike a portion of the trail. The first 23 waterfalls are accessible via a relatively flat, well-maintained path. Beyond that, the terrain becomes steep and technical. Beginners should not attempt the full loop without prior experience on rocky, uneven trails. Consider guided hikes offered by local outdoor clubs.

Are dogs allowed on the Falls Trail?

No. Dogs are prohibited on the Falls Trail due to the narrow, hazardous terrain and the risk of disturbing wildlife. They are permitted on other park trails, such as the Lake Jean Trail, but must be leashed at all times.

How long does it take to hike all 21 waterfalls?

Most hikers take 57 hours to complete the full 7.2-mile loop. Beginners or those stopping frequently for photos may need 89 hours. The trail is not designed for speedits meant for contemplation and observation.

Are there restrooms on the trail?

No. The only restrooms are at the main parking area and the Lake Jean picnic area. Plan accordingly. Carry toilet paper and a small trowel if you need to relieve yourself on the trail.

Can I swim at the waterfalls?

No. Swimming is strictly prohibited in all waterfalls and streams within the park. The water is cold, currents are unpredictable, and submerged rocks create deadly hazards. Violators have been rescued multiple times after being swept over falls.

What should I do if I see a rattlesnake?

Stop. Do not approach. Slowly back away. Rattlesnakes are not aggressive unless provoked. They are protected species. Observe from a distance and let them move off the trail. Do not attempt to move or kill them.

Is there cell service on the trail?

Very little. You may get a signal at the trailhead or near the Lake Jean area, but the gorge is a dead zone. Assume you are out of contact. Carry a satellite communicator if you plan to hike alone or in remote sections.

Can I camp overnight on the Falls Trail?

No. Overnight camping is not permitted on the Falls Trail. Designated campsites are available at Lake Jean, but they require a reservation. The trail is for day use only.

Are there fees to hike Ricketts Glen?

There is no entrance fee for day use. Parking is free. However, if you plan to camp at Lake Jean, a fee applies. Always check the DCNR website for updates on fees and reservations.

Whats the best time of day to photograph the waterfalls?

Early morning (sunrise to 10 a.m.) offers the clearest light and fewest crowds. Late afternoon (35 p.m.) provides warm golden tones. Avoid middaydirect sunlight creates harsh glare and reflections that wash out details.

Conclusion

Hiking Ricketts Glen State Park is more than a physical journeyits a communion with ancient forests, cascading waters, and the raw power of nature. But nature does not compromise. The same rocks that have stood for millennia demand respect, preparation, and humility. To hike Ricketts Glen safely is to move with intention: to plan meticulously, to listen to your body, to honor the trail, and to recognize that your safety is not guaranteedit is earned through discipline.

There will always be another waterfall. Another day. Another season. But there is only one chance to return home whole. By following the steps outlined in this guidepacking the right gear, checking conditions, respecting your limits, and prioritizing caution over adrenalineyou transform a risky adventure into a profound, lasting experience.

Leave no trace. Travel slowly. Watch your step. And when you stand beneath the spray of Ganoga Falls, or pause on a mossy ledge as mist rises around you, remember: you are not conquering the trail. You are walking through itwith care, with gratitude, and with safety as your guide.