A trip to Ricketts Glen State Park is a journey into one of Pennsylvania's most spectacular natural landscapes. Located roughly 46 miles from Williamsport Regional Airport (IPT), the park is easily accessible for a weekend getaway. This itinerary is designed to help you maximize your time, ensuring you see all twenty-two waterfalls while still leaving room to relax by the lake and enjoy the quiet beauty of the Endless Mountains region.
Day 1: Arrival and the Lower Falls
Start your journey by flying into Williamsport Regional Airport (IPT) or driving in from the nearby gateway cities of Benton or Wilkes-Barre. The drive from Williamsport takes just over an hour, winding through scenic rural landscapes. Upon arriving at Ricketts Glen, head to the park office to grab a map and check for any trail alerts. For your first afternoon, focus on the lower section of the park. Park at the Evergreen Parking Lot off Route 118 and take a leisurely walk to see Adams Falls, which is located just a short distance from the road.
Adams Falls is a stunning introduction to the park's geology, featuring a 36-foot drop through a narrow rock crevice. After taking in the falls, spend the rest of the afternoon exploring the lower reaches of Kitchen Creek or setting up your campsite at Lake Jean. If you prefer a roof over your head, check into a local lodge or cabin in the Benton area. Enjoy a quiet dinner outdoors or at a local diner, resting up for the strenuous hike ahead. This first day is all about getting your bearings and enjoying the fresh mountain air as you transition into vacation mode.
Day 2: The Magnificent Falls Trail Loop
Dedicate your second day to the park's main attraction: the full Falls Trail loop. Start earlyâideally by 8:30 AMâto beat the crowds and find parking at the Lake Jean or Rose Lake trailheads. You will begin by following the Highland Trail, which leads you to the intersection of the two main glens. Descend through Ganoga Glen first, where you will encounter the massive 94-foot Ganoga Falls. The path is steep and follows a series of stone steps, so take your time and watch your footing. You will pass multiple named falls, each with its own character, as you drop into the heart of the ravine.
Once you reach the junction known as 'Waters Meet,' you will have seen roughly half of the waterfalls. From here, follow the trail back up through Glen Leigh. This section is equally beautiful and features tight switchbacks and narrow ledges overlooking the water. By the time you return to the plateau, you will have hiked about 7.2 miles and climbed over 1,000 feet in elevation. This hike is the centerpiece of any Ricketts Glen itinerary, so bring plenty of water, high-energy snacks, and a camera to document the incredible scenery. The sheer number of cascades you see in a single afternoon is unlike anywhere else in the Eastern United States.
Day 3: Lake Jean and High Overlooks
After the physical exertion of the previous day, use your final morning to enjoy the calmer side of the park. Head to the beach at Lake Jean for a refreshing swim or rent a kayak to explore the lake's perimeter. The water is usually calm in the early morning, providing perfect reflections of the surrounding forest. If you have any remaining energy for hiking, the Grand View Trail is a great option. It leads to a high point on Red Rock Mountain, offering expansive views of the surrounding valleys and the distant peaks of the Endless Mountains. It is a much different perspective than the deep, enclosed glens you explored yesterday.
Before you begin your drive back to the airport or home, stop for a final picnic lunch at one of the lakeside tables. If you are heading back toward Williamsport, you might want to stop in the small village of Eagles Mere nearby, known for its historic architecture and pristine lake. This final day allows you to decompress and reflect on the natural beauty you've experienced. Make sure to check your vehicle's fuel levels before leaving the park area, as gas stations can be sparse in the immediate vicinity of the Sullivan Highlands. The return trip to Williamsport is a straightforward drive that caps off a perfect weekend in the Pennsylvania wilds.
Travel Tips and Packing Essentials
To make the most of your Ricketts Glen itinerary, packing the right gear is non-negotiable. Footwear is the most critical item; sneakers often lack the necessary grip for the wet stone steps, so waterproof hiking boots are highly recommended. Trekking poles can also be a lifesaver on the steep descents and ascents, providing extra stability on the slippery sections of the Falls Trail. Even in mid-summer, the temperature inside the glens can be significantly cooler than at the lake level, so carrying a lightweight, moisture-wicking jacket or long-sleeve shirt is a smart move.
Cell service is extremely limited within the park and the surrounding mountains. Download your maps and itinerary for offline use before you arrive. Additionally, the park can be quite humid, especially near the waterfalls, so pack insect repellent to ward off mosquitoes and gnats. If you plan to swim in Lake Jean, don't forget towels and a change of clothes, as the park facilities include convenient bathhouses. By being prepared for the rugged terrain and varying microclimates, you can focus on the scenery rather than discomfort. Always remember to follow 'Leave No Trace' principles to keep the glens pristine for future visitors.
Dining and Lodging Near the Park
While Ricketts Glen offers excellent camping and state-run cabins, you may prefer other accommodations. The nearby town of Benton serves as a gateway and offers charming bed and breakfasts and local inns. Williamsport and Wilkes-Barre provide more traditional hotel options and a wider variety of dining experiences if you prefer to commute into the park. For food, it is wise to stock up on groceries in one of these larger towns before heading into the park, as on-site options are limited to a seasonal snack bar at the beach.
Local restaurants in the surrounding rural area often specialize in hearty American fare, perfect after a long day of hiking. You will find small diners and pizza shops in the nearby communities that offer a taste of local hospitality. If you are camping, make sure to follow bear-safe food storage practices, as black bears are active in the region. Whether you are roasting marshmallows over a campfire or enjoying a meal in a local tavern, the relaxed pace of life in Northeastern Pennsylvania adds to the overall charm of your Ricketts Glen adventure. Always check the official DCNR website for the latest updates on park amenities and any seasonal closures.
More ways to book Ricketts Glen
Illustrative · Diego AngelSprinter Adventure Van
Small enough to park at the trailhead, comfy enough to sleep in.
$189/day (estimate)
Direct link · RVshare