A Day Trip to Bushkill Falls: The Niagara of Pennsylvania

Whenever my family needs a little escape into nature, Bushkill Falls is a beautiful place to go. Tucked away in the Pocono Mountains, 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.

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 my younger one, the green and yellow trails were our best friends. They’re shorter, less intense, and still give you beautiful waterfall views. It’s such a relief to have options that don’t overwhelm little legs, and I love watching them light up when they catch their first glimpse of the water rushing over the rocks. For my older kids who are more adventurous, they gravitate toward the blue trail. It’s longer, has more ups and downs, and feels like more of a “real hike” to them. The payoff is worth the effort, with quieter sections of forest and new vantage points for taking in the falls.

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. Scroll down to see a few of our pics!

More Fun Beyond the Trails

Of course, hiking isn’t the only thing that keeps my crew happy at Bushkill Falls. After a few hours on the trails, the kids are usually buzzing with energy and looking for their next adventure. That’s where gem mining comes in. They could spend ages sifting through the sand, excitedly showing off each colorful stone or crystal they uncover. I love how hands-on it is—it gives them a chance to slow down, focus, and come away with a little treasure to remember the day by.

Eventually, all that hiking and mining works up an appetite. Bushkill Falls has a snack bar where we 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. There’s something special about eating outside with the sound of waterfalls in the background—it just makes even a simple sandwich taste better.

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 kids love picking out their own flavors, and I’ll admit, I usually take a few extra pieces home “for later.” There’s nothing like a sweet bite of creamy fudge after a long day of hiking. It’s become our little tradition, and honestly, it’s one of the things we all look forward to most.

Why We Keep Coming Back

What makes Bushkill Falls such a gem for me 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.

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