Bushkill Falls, Pennsylvania

At the end of April, Andy and I met up with my brother and (almost!) sister-in-law for a visit to Bushkill Falls in northeastern Pennsylvania. We took one trip there as kids, but all I remembered was that there were waterfalls. It probably got blurred together with the hundreds of other long road trips our family of six took in the 80s and 90s 🙂

My memory gradually came back into focus as we started our hike: steep rock walls, rustic bridges, perfect for viewing the falls, and beautiful rushing water in every direction. The trails were pretty crowded around the Main Falls, but once we ventured deeper into the park, it was nice to get some breathing room.

The park, which is privately owned, added some more features over the years so it has a bit of a theme park feel to it. Besides the waterfalls and two miles of trails, the park also has a playground, mining maze, paddle boats, miniature golf, mining for gemstones, and a gift shop. My brother and I were particularly excited when we saw a sign for funnel cakes, but it was too early in the season for the concession stand to be open. Alas!

I’m happy to say that we had perfect weather at Bushkill and despite the leaves not really being out yet, true spring was just around the corner. It was so lovely walking through the forest of pine and hemlock trees, and the waters of Little Bushkill Creek and Pond Run were completely hypnotizing.

Since we don’t get to see each other that often and don’t take enough pictures when we do, I made to sure to get some cheesy shots with everyone:

Andy wisely chose to use the self-timer on his camera for this group shot:

It was such a great day and exactly what I needed: it was only a few days after the car crash and a day trip out in nature, with family, was so good for my soul. I left all the stress of dealing with the insurance companies at home in NY and it was a nice relief to not think or talk about it and just enjoy the falls.

On the way out of Pennyslvania, we had to stop in the cute village of Milford. Andy was quite pleased to see so many things named for his family 🙂

And our favorite sign:

I’m so excited for more waterfall hikes this spring and summer!

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Bushkill Falls is a privately-owned park in northeastern Pennsylvania, an easy drive from NYC, New Jersey, and the Hudson Valley. Admission is $13.50 for adults, $12.50 for seniors, and $8 for children ages 4-10, which covers necessary funds for maintenance and improvements. The park is open 7 days a week from April to October, from 9 AM to 7 PM.