Looking for a little nature? Head west to see the stunning Bushkill Falls. Dubbed the “Niagara of Pennsylvania,” Bushkill is among the most scenic falls in the United States, and is less than two hours from Manhattan (a perfect day trip!). The unique waterfalls are nestled in the forests of the majestic Pocono Mountains, and is a nature escape like no other. Planning a visit? Read our guide first to find out all of the best things to do at Bushkill Falls with Kids.
A River Runs through It – Bushkill Falls
The trails are comprised of a series of wood plank bridges, steps and paths that wind their way around eight falls and river paths. The journey at the base of these paths is gorgeous and gives incredible views of the river and surrounding lush forest. Children will love to walk along the running river and watch the water weave its way around the rocks. The crystal clear water and shallow depth allow a perfect view of the river floor making it fun to look for river fish and animal friends that make this their home.
Happy Trails – Bushkill Falls
There are a variety of trails to choose from to access the eight falls, each appealing to different athletic levels and abilities. All trails are made of wood beams and have safety hand railings. The paths themselves are clean and well-kept, and don’t worry about getting lost—each path is also color-coded and clearly marked for easy navigation during your walk. Note that the trails can be quite steep in areas, so hold little hands and be wary of the uneven steps and drops.
A View from Above – Bushkill Falls
The shortest (and easiest) Green Trail offers a view of the Main Falls and takes about 15 minutes to walk. The second shortest (and most popular) is the Yellow Trail. This trail starts at a high elevation leading you down stairs for a view at the bottom of Lower Gorge Falls, and ends with a climb upstairs for a wonderful view at the top of the Main Falls and Upper Canyon before circling you to the exit (about a 45-minute trek). The Blue Trail will lead you to Pennell Falls (an average hike of one hour and 15 minutes), and the most challenging Red Trail brings you to all eight falls, including the famous Bridal Veil Falls (recommended for avid hikers only; takes approximately two hours to hike).
Niagara of Pennsylvania – Bushkill Falls
The Main Waterfall, reaching a majestic 100 feet in height, is a truly incredible sight. The wooden bridge brings you to the base of the falls for an up-close breathtaking view of the waterfall river entry and deep pool that surrounds it. Children will love gazing at the thunderous power of the falls, rocky gorge and gigantic boulders speckled with foliage, moss and wildflowers.
Playtime at the Falls – Bushkill Falls with Kids
Much more than just waterfalls! Bushkill offers enough fun activities to make for a fantastic day trip for all. Their very own 18-hole Putt-Putt course depicts miniature scenes from the falls itself and is only $5 per person (and even includes a keepsake Bushkill golf ball of your choice!). Want some more a-maze-ing fun? The Bushkill Maze ($5 per person) is a competitive activity for the entire family (the fastest time wins a cool prize). Little one like mining? They have this too! Purchase a specialty bag of sand (pricing starts at $8), and sift and sort in the trough of water to find hidden treasures and specialty keepsake gemstones.
Tips for your visit:
• The early bird gets the worm (and less crowds). Try to time yourself to get there right when it opens—by the afternoon the paths are busy and the lines are long. We arrived at approximately 10:15am and had a long (yet tolerable) line; an hour later the line was past the parking lot.
• The trails are not accessible by strollers or wheelchairs, as they would be impossible to get over the numerous steps and inclines. There is a stroller parking near the entrance, if needed.
• Furry friends on leashes are welcome to hike the trails, too.
• Safety first! Be sure to wear appropriate (and comfortable!) shoes on the hiking trail.
• Pack water and use the restroom before starting your hike—there are no pit stops or bathrooms on the trail.
• Don’t bug out! Bring plenty of bug spray to protect yourself from hungry insects.
• Hike up an appetite? The on-site snack bar serves burgers, pizza, chicken fingers, wraps and snacks. Head to the neighboring Fudge Kitchen for chocolate, ice cream, sugary sweet treats and a large selection of their name-sake fudge.Location: 138 Bushkill Falls Trail, Bushkill, PA 18324.
Bushkill Falls
Location: 138 Bushkill Falls Trail, Bushkill, PA 18324
Hours: Open hours vary depending on season, day of week and weather. Generally they open at 9am and close at between 4pm and 7pm, so check their calendar prior to your trip. Bushkill Falls is closed for the season from December through March.
