A short walk with big rewards, the Shohola Falls Trail takes you through scenic Pike County forest to roaring cascades on Shohola Creek.
Shohola Falls might not be as famous as its neighbors in the Delaware Water Gap, but it’s absolutely one of the best things to do in Pike County if you love a short walk with big scenic rewards. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, soaking up some quiet time in the woods, or adding one more stop to a road trip, Shohola Falls delivers.
Shohola Falls Trail Basics
Under 1 Hour
0.6 Miles
Loop
40 Feet
Duration: Under 1 Hour
You won’t need all day for this one. The Shohola Falls hike takes about 20 to 30 minutes, depending on how long you pause for photos or to soak in the view.
Distance: 0.6 Miles Roundtrip
It’s a 0.6-mile loop from the parking area to the falls and back.
Type: Loop Trail
This is a loop trail with a few unofficial side spurs and lookout points.
Elevation Change: 40 Feet
There’s a minimal elevation gain of about 40 feet, but watch for a few steep ledges near the falls.
Season: Spring, Fall
The trail is beautiful year-round, but spring and fall are the best times to visit. Spring brings full water flow on Shohola Creek, while fall adds vibrant leaf color to the experience.
Time of Day: Morning or Late Afternoon
Morning or late afternoon gives the best light for photos, and fewer people. The trail is quiet most of the day, but golden hour can make Shohola Falls glow.
Amount of Shade: Mostly Shaded
There’s plenty of shade, thanks to dense forest cover. It’s a comfortable walk even in midsummer.
Difficulty: Easy
This is a beginner-friendly trail, though caution is advised near the rocky outcrops and ledges around the waterfall. It’s a short walk, but you’ll want sturdy shoes.
What Makes Shohola Falls a Great Hike?
Shohola Falls is a great hike because it combines accessibility, natural beauty, and solitude in a short, manageable walk. You don’t need to be an expert hiker to enjoy it—it’s quick, low-effort, and still leads to a dramatic waterfall view that feels like a hidden gem. Unlike the more crowded sites like Raymondskill Falls, Shohola Falls offers a quieter, more intimate experience with nature.
The mix of shaded forest, mossy rocks, and the rushing sound of Shohola Creek makes the trail feel peaceful from the moment you step onto it. And because it’s part of Pennsylvania’s State Game Lands, it feels wilder and less developed. It’s the kind of trail that delivers maximum reward with minimal effort, which is exactly what makes it one of the best hikes in Pike County for both casual walkers and seasoned outdoor lovers alike.
Scenery on the Shohola Falls Trail
Start of the Trail
The trail begins under a canopy of hardwood trees. Moss-covered rocks and low ferns line the path, and you’ll hear Shohola Creek rumbling in the background.
A small portion of Shohola Falls
All four of us in front of the waterfall
On the Trail
As you walk, the forest opens briefly to a few overlooks. You’ll pass quiet pools, small brooks, and boulders perfect for sitting. In wet weather, there may be small seasonal streams crossing the path.
End of the Trail
The payoff is the wide, powerful cascade of Shohola Falls, tumbling over a rugged rock shelf into a deep basin below. Trees frame the view perfectly, and you can walk right up to several stone outcroppings for different angles—just be cautious of slick surfaces and steep drop-offs.
Notable Places on the Hike
- Shohola Falls Overlook: An informal spot just before the main cascade that offers a side view of the upper falls.
- Shohola Lake Inlet: Walk a bit farther to glimpse the lake where the creek widens.
- Shohola Creek Boulders: Flat rocks near the edge that offer seating and quiet places to relax.
- Fisherman’s Path: A spur trail some locals use to reach fishing spots along Shohola Creek.
View of the dam near the trail
Most of the waterfall
Shohola Falls Trailhead Information
Park Name: None
The falls are located within State Game Lands Number 180 in Pike County, Pennsylvania, not far from the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.
Finding the Trailhead
From the parking lot, walk toward the wooden guardrails and listen for the sound of rushing water. There are no large signs, but you’ll see a worn footpath that veers off toward the left, leading through the trees and toward the creek.
Markers Along the Trail
There are no official blazes or signs, so stay alert. Fortunately, the loop is intuitive and short, with well-worn dirt paths. Some visitors place sticks or small stone markers to guide the way.
Nearest Restrooms
There are no restrooms directly at the parking area. The nearest public facilities are in the town of Shohola, about 5 minutes away by car. If you're visiting other waterfalls like Raymondskill Falls or Savantine Falls, you may find restrooms there.
Parking Area
The main parking lot is off Brooks Road, a quiet gravel road. There’s enough space for several cars, and it’s generally not crowded.
Other Trails at this Trailhead
This area is primarily used for the Shohola Falls loop, but hunters and anglers sometimes use adjacent paths to Shohola Lake and Shohola Creek. If you're interested in longer hikes, Raymondskill Falls and Delaware Water Gap trails are short drives away.
Tips for Shohola Falls
- Wear sturdy shoes—the rocks near the falls are slippery even on dry days.
- Keep kids close, especially near steep ledges.
- Don’t rely on GPS—cell signal is spotty in State Game Lands.
- Bring water, and possibly bug spray in warmer months.
- Leave no trace—this area is pristine and less trafficked.
- Check game lands regulations, especially during hunting seasons (usually posted in the parking area or on the Pennsylvania Game Commission site).
- If you’re waterfall-hopping, combine this with Raymondskill Falls or a stop at Savantine Falls.
- Always follow posted signs, and note the privacy policy at some nearby private land access points—stick to marked public areas.
Accessibility Information for Shohola Falls
Dirt
Paved
Trail Type: Dirt
The trail is not officially ADA accessible. It’s uneven, unpaved, and can be muddy or rocky.
Parking: Paved
The parking lot is flat and easy to access.