Ricketts Glen State Park Falls Loop
Route Description
The Ricketts Glen Falls Loop is one of Pennsylvania's premier trail running routes, featuring a rugged circuit through the park's famous waterfall system. The route follows the Falls Trail, weaving past 21 waterfalls ranging from 11 feet to 94 feet all very distinctive in thier own right, steep stone staircases, technical rock sections, stream crossings, and dense forest before returning to the trailhead.
The course combines challenging climbing and descending with highly technical footing, making it an excellent test of endurance, agility, and trail-running ability. While relatively short compared to ultra-distance FKTs, the terrain makes this a demanding effort from start to finish.
Route Type
Loop
Start / Finish
Ricketts Glen State Park Falls Trailhead parking area (same location)
Distance
Elevation
- Elevation Gain: ~995
- Elevation Loss: ~995
Terrain
- Technical singletrack
- Natural stone staircases
- Rock gardens
- Waterfall overlooks
- Creek crossings
- Forest trails
- Steep climbs and descents
Route Highlights
- Passes 21 of Ricketts Glen's iconic waterfalls
- Continuous technical terrain throughout the loop
- Scenic old-growth forest
- One of the most photographed trail systems in Pennsylvania
- Challenging footing requiring careful navigation even at race pace
Navigation
The route is straightforward and remains on the established Falls Trail loop. Trail junctions are well marked within the state park.
Suggested Season
Late spring through fall. Trail conditions can become slippery after rain, and winter ice may make portions of the route hazardous which sometimes get closed.
Notes
- The Falls Trail contains many wet rocks and stone steps that can become extremely slippery.
- Runners should be aware of other hikers, especially during weekends and holidays.
- Follow all Pennsylvania State Park regulations and practice Leave No Trace principles.
