The best waterfall hikes and walks in Carbon County

Embark on a long, rewarding journey along the D&L Trail: White Haven to Jim Thorpe, a 25.0-mile (40.3 km) hike that winds through the stunning Lehigh Gorge State Park. You'll follow the Lehigh River, enjoying continuous views of whitewater rapids and dramatic cliffs, while passing enchanting trailside waterfalls like Buttermilk Falls. The path itself is a comfortable stone-dust rail trail, often shaded by dense forests, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue with remnants of old bridge piers and an abandoned railroad tunnel.

While the 25.0-mile (40.3 km) distance and 10 hours and 26 minutes duration earn it a "difficult" rating, the trail features a gentle, net downhill grade with only 558 feet (170 metres) of elevation gain, making it surprisingly accessible for a long-distance hike. Many visitors choose a one-way trip, utilizing shuttle services between White Haven and Jim Thorpe, which is a smart way to experience the full length without an arduous return. Check for any closures, especially for historical features like the Turn Hole Tunnel, before you head out.

This section of the D&L Trail is steeped in history, tracing the former Lehigh Valley Railroad corridor that once transported anthracite coal. It offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in a wilderness setting within Lehigh Gorge State Park, spotting diverse trees and wildlife. Finishing in the picturesque town of Jim Thorpe provides a perfect end to your adventure, with plenty of options for food and relaxation after your extensive hike.

This easy 1.3-mile (2.0 km) hike to Buttermilk and Luke's Falls is a delightful, universally accessible outing that takes just 32 minutes, with a mere 69 feet (21 metres) of elevation gain. Following the flat, wide Delaware and Lehigh (D&L) Rail Trail, you'll enjoy smooth terrain as you walk alongside the Lehigh River, surrounded by lush forests and the gorge. The highlight is undoubtedly the twin waterfalls: the impressive cascading Buttermilk Falls, and Luke's Falls, which tumbles down in a series of drops, though it can be partially hidden by dense foliage in summer.

To plan your visit, head to the Rockport Access Area, which provides easy trailhead access and parking for this popular spot. There are no permits or fees required, making it a hassle-free destination. While beautiful year-round, the fall foliage offers a particularly stunning backdrop, though you might find Luke's Falls a bit more visible outside of peak summer growth.

What makes this trail truly stand out is its exceptional accessibility, welcoming hikers of all abilities, including those with wheelchairs. It's a perfect example of how the historic D&L Rail Trail transforms abandoned railroad grades into scenic pathways, allowing you to experience Pennsylvania's industrial heritage amidst natural beauty. The close proximity of two distinct waterfalls from a single access point makes it an efficient and rewarding choice for a short, scenic walk.

The Hawk Falls and Orchard Loop offers a delightful blend of easy waterfall access and a more challenging forest trek, all within Hickory Run State Park. You'll wander through thick rhododendron bushes and mountain laurel, especially vibrant when blooming in summer, before reaching the impressive 25-foot Hawk Falls. The trail then transitions into the Orchard Loop, providing a "jungle-like" atmosphere with plenty of shade and rocky sections, including a steep stone staircase.

This 2.8-mile (4.5 km) hike, rated as easy, involves 240 feet (73 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes around 1 hour and 14 minutes to complete. The trails are well-marked with yellow blazes. For the best scenery, consider visiting from mid-June to mid-July for summer blooms or in October for stunning fall foliage. No permits are required, and parking is generally available at the trailhead.

What makes this loop special is its ability to combine two distinct experiences: the relatively gentle path to Hawk Falls and the more rugged, elevation-rich Orchard Loop. This allows you to customize your outing based on your desired challenge. The trail also provides access to the Mud Run Natural Area, where you might even find opportunities for fishing, making it a versatile option in Carbon County.

The Lehigh Gorge Trail offers a remarkably scenic journey through the Pocono Mountains, tracing the path of an abandoned railroad corridor. You'll hike along a well-maintained crushed stone surface, enjoying continuous views of the Lehigh River as it carves through lush forests and past towering rock cliffs. Keep an eye out for picturesque waterfalls like Buttermilk Falls and Luke's Falls, which add to the natural beauty of this immersive experience.

This 19.1-mile (30.7 km) hiking route, rated difficult due to its length, involves a gentle 629 feet (192 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes around 7 hours and 58 minutes to complete. While the distance is substantial, the trail's flat and even terrain makes it physically accessible for many, provided you're prepared for a long day. It's an excellent choice for endurance hikers or families looking for a long, scenic walk without steep climbs.

Part of the larger Delaware & Lehigh (D&L) Trail, the Lehigh Gorge Trail is renowned for its accessibility and diverse scenery, blending natural beauty with historical remnants of the region's industrial past. Wildlife spotting, including white-tailed deer and bald eagles, is common, and the fall season transforms the gorge into a vibrant display of colors, making it a particularly popular time to visit. Its gentle grade also makes it suitable for a wide range of users.

The Lehigh Gorge Trail offers a delightful, easy walking path through a stunning natural landscape. Following an old railroad corridor, the route provides continuous views of the scenic Lehigh River, flanked by steep, forested mountains and impressive rock outcroppings. You'll pass by charming waterfalls like Luke's Falls and Buttermilk Falls, making it a picturesque journey for all.

This 1.3-mile (2.1 km) hiking route is rated easy, with a minimal 85 feet (26 metres) of elevation gain, and can be completed in about 33 minutes. It's an ideal choice for families, beginners, or anyone seeking a gentle stroll. The trail's flat, well-maintained crushed stone surface makes it highly accessible, even for strollers or wheelchairs in many sections.

The Lehigh Gorge Trail is part of a larger historic railroad corridor, offering a glimpse into the region's industrial past alongside its natural beauty. It's particularly renowned for its breathtaking fall foliage, when the gorge explodes with vibrant colors. This makes it a popular destination for those looking to experience the best time of year to hike Lehigh Gorge Trail.