We were lucky that the maps we used sent us to the parking area for Dingmans Creek Trail instead of to the Visitor’s Center. The Visitor’s Center was closed due to Covid during our April visit and the walk from the Visitor’s Center to the bottom of the falls is neither especially short nor especially scenic, whereas the walk from the parking lot to the falls via the Dingmans Creek Trail was a relaxing walk through the woods with the creek running alongside us during most of our hike.
After taking an easy hike on for about 20 minutes alongside the Dingmans Creek we got to the top of Dingmans Falls where we go our first view of the majestic waterfall cascading down. The spring is usually the best time to visit waterfalls as they generally swell up from the many rains and melted snow.
We then headed down the many many steps and around to the bottom of the magnificent waterfall. After snapping lots of pictures we sat on the bench across from the waterfall and just enjoyed the view. We were mesmerized by the second highest waterfall in Pennsylvania.
After enjoying the site of the rushing water we headed back up the many steps and retraced our path in the woods back to our car.
I couldn’t believe that there is no entrance fee for visiting Dingmans Falls when many less impressive waterfalls charge an admission fee.
Posted: July 7, ’21
Information, prices and hours posted here are current as of the posted or updated date. It is advisable to call ahead or check online to confirm hours and prices.
Address:
Dingmans Falls Visitors Center:
224 Dingmans Falls Road
Delaware Township, PA 18328
Dingmans Creek Trail:
Parking is at the end of Doodle Hollow Road in Dingmans Ferry, PA
Phone Number-Visitor’s Center:
570-828-2253
Price: Free
Approximate Distance from:
Brooklyn Bridge: 1 hour, 25 minutes
Lakewood: 2 hours
Monsey: 1 hour, 30 minutes
Website:
https://www.nps.gov/dewa/planyourvisit/dingmans-creek-trail.htm
This is a hidden gem! We have visited many times and each season is a different wondrous experience! Note that when the park is closed (late autumn to early spring) parking is at the bottom of the road instead of at the Visitors Center, which (as noted above) is not an especially simple nor short walk – but it more than makes up for it in drama! The road twists and rises dramatically, the creek rushes alongside, and hikers and autumn leaves take over the car-free road. It is almost a shame to miss out on during the summer when you can drive right up to the visitor center. Note that on winter snow will likely impede the path and a visit would not be recommended.
The Bavarian chalet style visitor center, when open, is lovely. Bathrooms are natural-style permanent structures, a kind of cross between public restrooms and a Johnny on the spot (water for washing hands avail from water fountain, bathrooms are not smell-free but are neat.)
The real star is the path itself with its several distinct and unique waterfalls; the glorious rhododendron forest for the latter segment; the almost sequoia-like stillness of the first segment where towering trees and steep cliffs create the glen; and the boardwalk decking (originally created by the CCC and carefully and yearly maintained by the Parks Service) that forms the walk.
Accessibility: the walk is carriage accessible until the dramatic last stage where 100+ steps swoop up and down the mountainside to an upper viewing area of the great falls. Those with carriages or wheelchairs can wait (comfortably) below in the viewing area at the foot of the falls while the rest of their party climbs the steps, enjoying the view from below. A spectacular gem that is a great stop on your way to PA or NY!
Note the one way wooden bridge into the village (and the human toll collector)! Also note that barbecues may not be allowed in the nearby park, so check that out first before setting up.