A Day Trip to Bushkill Falls: The Niagara of Pennsylvania
Bushkill Falls, the 'Niagara of Pennsylvania,' makes the perfect family day trip with scenic boardwalk trails, kid-friendly hikes, and stunning waterfalls. From gem mining to picnics and a sweet stop at the Fudge Kitchen, it’s a day packed with adventure and memories.
9/6/20255 min read
Whenever my family needs a little escape into nature, Bushkill Falls is a beautiful place to go. Tucked away in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania, it's often called the "Niagara of Pennsylvania," and once you see the waterfalls, you'll understand why. It's the kind of place that feels both adventurous and family-friendly, which makes it perfect for a day trip with kids.
Hi! 👋 I’m a mom of three kids (ages 4–11) based in Bucks County, PA, and our family is always on the lookout for trips that are actually doable — on a real budget, around a real school schedule, and with kids in tow. Think short getaways, summer vacations, and reviews from a family of five that plans carefully but still likes to have a good time.
Plan Your Visit
Bushkill Falls is located in Bushkill, PA, right in the heart of the Poconos. From the Philadelphia area, it's about a 90-minute drive, and from New York City, plan on roughly two hours. It's a solid day trip from most of the Northeast, and the drive through the mountains doesn't hurt either.
The park is typically open spring through fall (they close for the winter season), so check their website before you go to confirm hours and admission prices, as these can change year to year. Admission is charged per person, with discounted rates for young children. While tickets can be purchased at the gate, I’d recommend purchasing them in advance online to avoid the lines. On busy summer weekends, arriving early is smart as parking fills up and the trails get crowded by the afternoon. We usually aim to arrive by 10am, which also helps us beat the afternoon summer heat.
Hiking to See the Falls
The main draw at Bushkill Falls is definitely the hiking. I love that the trails are either well-paved or made of sturdy boardwalks, so even when I've got younger kids with me, I don't have to worry about rough terrain or tricky spots. From the moment you step onto the path, you can hear the roar of the falls, and it just builds the excitement as you go.
For younger kids, the Green Trail is the sweet spot. It's the shortest loop coming in at under a mile and takes roughly 20 to 30 minutes at a kid's pace. It brings you right to the main Bushkill Falls overlook, which honestly might be the most impressive view in the whole park. The Yellow Trail is a small step up, just a bit longer, maybe 45 minutes, and adds a second waterfall to the mix. Both are completely manageable for little legs.
For my older kids who want more of a challenge, the Blue Trail is the one to take. It's the longest, family-friendly option at around two miles and adds elevation changes that actually feel like a real hike. Plan for about 90 minutes if you take it at a leisurely pace. The payoff is worth the effort though with quieter sections of forest, multiple waterfalls, and some really beautiful vantage points. If your group iis mixed ages, you can always split up: one parent takes the littles on the Green Trail while the other tackles the Blue Trail with the bigger kids and you meet back at the bottom.
No matter which trail we choose, I always enjoy the mix of wooden bridges, boardwalks, and overlooks. There's something magical about stopping on a bridge with the water rushing beneath your feet, mist on your face, and the sound of the falls echoing all around. It feels like stepping into another world, even though it's just a day trip.
What to Pack
A few things that make the day go much smoother: wear sturdy sneakers as the boardwalks can get slippery from the mist, and flip flops are a recipe for a meltdown (or a twisted ankle). Layers are smart even in warmer months, because the mist from the falls is real and the wooded trails stay cool. Bring a water bottle for everyone and some snacks for the trail, and of course other essentials such as sunscreen and bug spray. They do have picnic tables in the parking lot area, so you could also plan to pack a picnic lunch.
More Fun Beyond the Trails
Of course, hiking isn't the only thing that keeps my crew happy at Bushkill Falls. After a couple hours on the trails, the kids are usually buzzing with energy and looking for their next adventure. That's where gem mining comes in. For a small additional fee, kids can sift through sand-filled troughs to uncover colorful stones and crystals. They could spend ages at it and it gives them a chance to slow down, focus, and come away with a little treasure to remember the day. Even my youngest can do it with minimal supervision, which is always a win.
Eventually, all that hiking and mining works up an appetite. Bushkill Falls has a snack bar where you can grab something quick, which is convenient when nobody wants to wait long. But honestly, I love that there are plenty of picnic tables scattered throughout the park. Packing our own food and sitting down together for a picnic always feels like part of the adventure.
And we always, always finish our day with a visit to the Fudge Kitchen. Skipping it is simply not an option in my family. The fudge is made in-house in a huge variety of flavors and the kids love picking out their own. They also have ice cream, chocolates and a variety of candy.
Why We Keep Coming Back
What makes Bushkill Falls such a gem for our family is the balance. It offers the beauty and grandeur of waterfalls without requiring a tough, backcountry hike. The trails are safe, well-marked, and varied enough that we can pick the right one depending on who's along for the trip. Add in activities like gem mining, spots to picnic, and of course the fudge, and it's a place where everyone — from my youngest to my tweens — finds something they love.
At the end of the day, I usually find myself a little tired, my legs sore from the trails, and my pockets a bit lighter from fudge purchases, but my heart is always full. Bushkill Falls is one of those places where the combination of nature, family, and simple fun creates lasting memories. Whether it's your first time or your tenth, the waterfalls, the trails, and the treats always feel just a little bit magical.
Quick Tips for Your Visit
Arrive early on weekends — it fills up fast.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes with grip
Bring layers; the mist near the falls is cool and parts of the trail are shaded
Pack your own lunch and use the picnic tables
There are other activities to do there, so be ready for the kids to ask to do more
Check the website for current hours and admission prices before you go
⭐ Looking for ways to keep your car comfortable and kids entertained during your next car ride? Check out my Road Trip Essentials post here!
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