My visit to Dingmans Falls was purely on a whim. Traveling between Stroudsburg and Milford in the northeastern corner of Pennsylvania, I passed through the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area with my wife in the passenger seat.
We had passed several other signs for waterfalls, but for some reason, when we saw the sign for Dingmans Falls, a few miles downstream from George W. Childs Recreation Site, we decided to turn off.
After winding our way down the narrow road, we arrived in the parking lot of the falls. After making a brief stop at the visitors’ center, we started along the short path to the falls.
From the first step on the path, it was like I was transported into another world. Slender trees soared above me, hiding chirping birds and blocking the midday sun. Breathing deeply, I smelled the sweet smell of pine. I may love cities, but there’s no better smell than a peaceful forest.
As we continued down the path, we soon came to Silverthread Falls (Silver Thread Falls in some sources). While the 80-foot drop is quite impressive, the low water flow made this waterfall a bit underwhelming; however, it was interesting to note the thin channel that the flowing water had carved in the hard rock.
Continuing on the trail, we quickly reached the highlight of the Dingmans Creek Trail: Dingmans Falls.
At over 130-feet tall, the waterfall would be impressive, even if there wasn’t a heavy flow of water constantly pouring over the edge. It’s worth noting that this is the second tallest waterfall in Pennsylvania, only a few feet shorter than nearby Raymondskill Falls. Both of these waterfalls made my list of the best waterfalls in PA.
A large pool separates you from the waterfall, and I can’t be the only person who thought a dip in the waters would be refreshing. Unfortunately, no Dingmans Falls swimming is allowed.
Before leaving the waterfall, make sure you follow the staircase opposite the falls. A short trail will lead you to a great observation deck above the waterfall for an excellent view of the top of the falls.
Keep in mind that while the trail to Dingmans Falls is flat and even handicap accessible, the trail to the top is mildly strenuous, though rather short.
The trail to Dingmans Falls is open every day from sunrise to sunset, though the visitor center is only open on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Inside the visitor center is a small gift shop, restrooms, and an uninspiring video about the park.
Reaching the trailhead is quite easy. It’s located a short distance off Route 209, the main highway through Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. The parking area is at the following coordinates: 41.229392, -74.887282.
[Click here for information on how to use the coordinates in this article to find your destination.]
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Jim, Just spent an hour looking at your various posts. Thanks for taking the time to do this! I already have listed a few places i want to check out. You may not get many comments- internet people are like that, for the most part- but i am sure i am not the only appreciative viewer. I’m subscribing and looking forward to more eye-openers from you. Sean Burns
I’m glad to hear it’s helpful, Sean. Enjoy your travels.
I am also really enjoying your coverage of the Waterfalls and hikes. Now the hard part is deciding which one to do first.
A beautiful area! Enjoy your articles. Sad that people throw aluminum cans and bottle caps in such a pristine environment!
Very helpful site! I was born and raised in Milford, Pa. while I love my hometown, it is only a place I return to to see family and we often hike on trails well known and unknown. I’ve moved around quite a bit living and working in NYC and now find myself w my husband and 3 young boys in Tannersville, Pa. we moved here a year ago from Stroudsburg. I’ve had trouble finding hikes to go on that are easy for kids under 6 to go on that I don’t have to hold them. We’ve visited Resica Falls and Buttermilk falls near Shawnee, but the sound of the road RIGHT next to you is kind of a bummer. Any trails or falls you know of near me?