Chasing Waterfalls: 5 Free Can't Miss Waterfalls in the Poconos

Are you craving a real getaway? An escape from the day-to-day of errands, emails, and half-hearted relaxation? If the sound of rushing water and rustling leaves makes your heart ache (in the best way), you might be overdue for a nature reset. Here’s your guide to trading burnout for birdsong and stepping away from the crazy in favor of something real: the sound of rushing water echoing through ancient trees.

Welcome to Babbling Brook Cottages in Dingmans Ferry, Pennsylvania, where stunning waterfalls and forest trails are just minutes from your cozy cabin. Tucked in the heart of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, Babbling Brook Cottages is one of Northeastern Pennsylvania’s best-kept secrets. It’s a launchpad to explore some of PAs most stunning waterfalls — and the perfect place to unplug in comfort with nature all around.

The Waterfall Hit List:

Whether you’re a casual stroller or a trail-hardened hiker, there's a free waterfall for you in the Poconos. We have over 20 different waterfalls within 20 minutes and here is our hand-picked itinerary of the top 5 free adventures you can't miss in 2025!  

Autumn splendor at Deer Leap Falls, George W. Childs Park, as vibrant October foliage complements the serene waterfall near Babbling Brook Cottages.

George W. Childs Park — 3 Waterfalls/1 Trail

Distance: Our next door neighbor -  5-minute hike or 1-minute drive from your cottage

Trail: Easy to moderate 1.5-mile loop with paved and cinder walkways, wooden and stone stairs, leading to three waterfalls. This trail features:

Factory Falls – A charming tiered waterfall near historic stone ruins

Fulmer Falls – The tallest in the park at 56 feet, framed by dramatic rock walls

Deer Leap Falls – A romantic cascade viewed from a wooden bridge

Tip: Go early for quiet trails and soft morning light while sipping your coffee in a travel tumbler. Or sneak over after dinner and enjoy the sunsetting. Dogs are not permitted on this trail. 

Raymondskill Falls cascades in a mesmerizing frozen embrace in February, showcasing nature's icy artistry.

Raymondskill Falls

Distance: 15 minute drive from your cottage

Trail: Moderate and short 0.3 miles round trip with natural stone stairways, cinder paths, and wooden platforms.  The tallest waterfall in Pennsylvania at 150 feet! Two scenic platforms give you unforgettable views of this multi-tiered fall. 

Tip: A perfect short trip with a big reward - great for photos! Dogs are not permitted on this trail. 

Hackers Falls in full flow, fueled by the winter thaw and spring rains, as seen along the Cliff Trail System in April.

Hackers Falls

Distance: 15 minute drive from your cottage 

Trail: Moderate 1.4 mile out and back begins across from Raymondskill's lower parking lot.  Enjoy a hike with 340 foot elevation change, mixed hardwood forest, and hemlock ravine views as you make your way past Hackers Falls. This waterfall has a fan shape as it slides down a short, steep drop. 

Tip -  Combine Raymondskill & Hackers Falls for a beautiful early morning hike. It is part of the Cliff Trial system. This is a leashed dog friendly trail. 

Indian Ladder Falls cascades gracefully over rocky ledges, surrounded by lush greenery, showcasing a moderate flow during early summer along the Upper Hornbecks Trail.

Upper Hornbecks Trail

Distance: 10-minute drive from your cottage. 

Trail: Moderate and challenging 4 miles round trip wooded pine natural path with steep inclines and declines and very steep stairs. This scenic trail takes you deep into the woods and reveals several beautiful waterfalls tucked along Hornbecks Creek and into a mossy gorge culminating with Indian Ladder Falls.  

Tip: Bring water and good hiking shoes with traction  — great for anyone that loves the journey as much as the destination. This is a leashed dog friendly trail. 

A picturesque waterfall cascades down the rocky terrain of Lower Hornbecks Creek Trail, capturing the serene beauty of late November.

Lower Hornbecks Trail

Distance: 15 -minute drive from your cottage

Trail: Moderate 1.5 miles round trip with multiple bridges across Hornbecks Creek. A peaceful trail following the creek through the forest to a lovely waterfall surrounded by lush greenery.

Tip:   A hidden gem that has unique water crossings.  This is a leased dog friendly trail. 

Stay Here, Stay Wild

Babbling Brook Cottages is not just a bed between waterfall hikes. It’s a step into a slower pace of life — where the only agenda is to breathe deeper, smile wider, and reconnect with what really matters. Each original 1930s/1940s log cabin is a peaceful retreat with clean and cozy decor that is updated with all of today's modern comforts.  Step outside and you're stepping into nature — towering trees, flowing creeks, and trails within minutes.  Imagine an evening firepit under the star filled sky and no morning alarm.  

“We came for the waterfalls. We left feeling totally renewed.” – Guest Review

📌 Your Waterfall Escape Plan

1. Book your stay of 2 nights or more – BabblingBrookCottages.com

2. Pack your hiking boots and camera – We've got the rest covered.

3. All guests receive a digital guidebook two weeks before arrival and a printed waterfall map at check-in of 20 waterfalls within 20 minutes. 

Then: Explore. Breathe. Reconnect.

You Deserve This

You come for the quiet. You will leave with everlasting memories.

Babbling Brook Cottages – Nature's hidden gem. Reserve your waterfall escape now.

View the 5 Cottages

The information provided in this blog post is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice or guarantees regarding safety. Hikers are responsible for assessing trail conditions, following local regulations, and proceeding at their own risk.