The spectacular Ricketts Glen is home to one of the best hikes in the entire world, the 4 mile long Falls Loop Trail that will take you to 21+ waterfalls.
Sometimes I come across a location that I've never heard of.
Sometimes that place is stunning.
Sometimes it contains what can only be described as one of the best hikes ever.
This 4 mile hike will take you to 21 named waterfalls [and more unnamed] and the most efficient way to experience it is to park at the Lake Rose trailhead.
Normally I'd like to point out significant things to see on the trail, but this hike is all about the falls. You will run into each one only minutes from the last... it barely feels like a hike with so much excitement! The trail is also loaded with people and it's hard to get lost. So while I am no professional photographer, I present to you:
Mohawk Falls
Unnamed Falls next to Mohawk
Oneida Falls
Cayuga Falls
Ganoga Falls
This is the tallest waterfall in the park. Truly astonishing and it throws considerable mist into the air so be prepared to get wet!
Seneca Falls
Delaware Falls
Mohican Falls
Conestoga Falls
Tuscarora Falls
Erie Falls
At this point skip crossing the Bridge and continue the trail south to see three more large watr falls. Afterwards you'll return here
Harrison Wright Falls
Sheldon Reynolds Falls
Murray Reynolds Falls
At this point you return to Waters Meet and cross the bridge. Prepare to now ascend all that height you casually walked down!
Wyandot Falls
B. Reynolds Falls
This fun waterfall is the only one that you can go behind!
R.B. Ricketts Falls
Ozone Falls
Ozone falls is the second tallest on the trail and looks incredible.
Huron Falls
The upper part close up:
Shawnee Falls
F.L. Ricketts Falls
Onodoga Falls
At this point you are essentially done. While the midway crevasse is on the map, and it's cool don't get me wrong, the best stuff is behind you and your ascent is complete. This trail back to the parking lot is your victory lap for climbing out of the valley! Do not underestimate this trail, we saw two people injured slipping on the stairs, one who was waiting for assistance to get out of the park.
Other notable things:
We saw an unbelievable amount of dogs on this trail, there are sections I would not want to be on a leash with a dog, especially the stairs.
We witnessed a girl on crutches doing the entire trail.
Many photographers were setting up tripods at the best locations, so you'll have to be patient at points if you want the best photos.
The weather was pouring rain for most of the day and abnormally cold, 48 degrees when we started. It didn't deter ANYONE. This is a popular trail
This has now become my all time favorite hike, its fairly easy, insanely rewarding and drop dead gorgeous. you MUST visit.
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