Photographer’s Guide to Ricketts Glen State Park (Pennsylvania)

Ricketts Glen State Park in Pennsylvania is a true paradise for landscape photographers and waterfall lovers. It boasts incredible hiking trails, serene lakes, and beautiful forests, but the 20+ named waterfalls are the main attraction. Best of all, the Ricketts Glen waterfalls can be easily accessed thanks to a moderate loop hike.

Park Overview

Location and Accessibility

Ricketts Glen State Park is located in northeastern Pennsylvania, covering parts of Luzerne, Sullivan, and Columbia counties. It’s accessible from major cities like Philadelphia and New York, making it a convenient destination for a weekend getaway. The park is well-signposted, and parking is available at several trailheads, making it easy for hikers and photographers to access the park’s main points of interest.

Basics

Covering more than 13,000 acres, Ricketts Glen offers a diverse range of landscapes. One of the most popular sections is the Falls Trail, renowned for its stunning waterfalls. Lake Jean, another gem of the park, provides picturesque views and opportunities for reflection photography.

Key Features and Natural Highlights

Ricketts Glen is home to old-growth forests rich with hemlocks and oaks, which create a canopy that beautifully filters sunlight. The park’s diverse flora and fauna add to its charm, offering photographers endless subjects. Highlighting the natural beauty are the waterfalls and Lake Jean, both of which we’ll cover in detail.

Waterfalls

The Falls Trail is Ricketts Glen’s crown jewel. It winds through rocky terrain and dense forests to reveal over 21 stunning waterfalls. This 7.2-mile loop is moderately challenging but offers rewarding views at every turn.

There are a few different ways to do this hike. Although it’s a loop, there’s a short section that is essentially an out-and-back spoke off of the main loop. If you skip this part of the trail, you’ll miss three waterfalls. The trail is about 7.2 miles if you complete the entire thing to see all 21 waterfalls.

Falls Trail is rated as moderate to difficult (depending on the website you look at) because there is a lot of elevation change and plenty of rocky areas. However, with 21 scenic waterfalls along the trail, you’ll being stopping to rest very frequently.

Ganoga Falls

At 94 feet, Ganoga Falls is the tallest waterfall in the park. Its sheer drop and cascading waters make it a must-photograph spot.

Harrison Wright Falls

A 27-foot waterfall located along Kitchen Creek, Harrison Wright Falls is known for its gentle flow and wide curtain of water.

Adams Falls

Unlike most of the park’s waterfalls, Adams Falls is not on the Falls Trail. Located near the Evergreen parking area, this 36-foot waterfall is easily accessible and perfect for a quick yet rewarding photo session.

Best Times to Visit for Optimal Waterfall Photography

Spring and fall are ideal for photographing the waterfalls. Spring typically brings heavier water flow and vibrant greenery, while fall offers stunning foliage that adds beautiful color to your shots. Falls Trail is quite popular, so it’s best to avoid weekends and holidays if you want to photograph the falls with as few distractions as possible.

Lake Jean

Lake Jean is a serene, 245-acre lake located within Ricketts Glen State Park. Surrounded by forests and meadows, it offers a peaceful setting for reflection photography. The calm waters mirror the sky and surrounding trees, creating picture-perfect compositions. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times for reflection photography at Lake Jean.

Seasonal Considerations

• Spring Blooms: Spring offers fresh blooms and lush greenery, making it an excellent time for vibrant nature photography.
• Summer Greens: Summer provides long days and lush foliage (as long as it’s not too dry), perfect for exploring and capturing the park’s vibrant landscapes.
• Fall Foliage: Fall is arguably the most photogenic season in Ricketts Glen, with stunning autumn colors transforming the park.
• Winter Ice: Winter offers unique photographic opportunities with frozen waterfalls and snow-covered landscapes, creating a magical winter wonderland. But be aware that the Falls Trail can be quite dangerous in snow and ice. It’s only recommended for experienced winter hikers, and be sure that you have the necessary gear.

Seasonal Challenges and Tips

• Spring: Be prepared for muddy trails and higher water levels. Waterproof boots and protective gear for your camera are good to have.
• Summer: Summer can bring crowds, so visit early in the morning on weekdays to avoid congestion. Bring water and insect repellent.
• Fall: Fall foliage attracts many visitors. Plan your visit during weekdays and be prepared for varying weather conditions.
• Winter: Icy trails and cold temperatures can be hazardous. Wear appropriate clothing, use crampons for traction, and ensure your camera gear is weather-sealed.

Trails and Hikes

While the Falls Trail is the most famous, Ricketts Glen offers several other trails worth exploring. The Highland Trail and Cherry Run Trail provide additional scenic views and photographic opportunities.

• Highland Trail: This 3.7 mile trail is near the Falls Trail and can be a nice addition for those who want to hike and see more of the park.
• Cherry Run Trail: This 4.6 mile trail takes you through beautiful groves of cherry trees.

Recommended Camera Gear for Landscape Photography in the Park

For the best results, bring a DSLR or mirrorless camera with manual settings. A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the waterfalls. You should also bring:

• Tripod: A sturdy tripod is crucial for long-exposure shots, especially when photographing waterfalls.
• Polarizer: To reduce glare from the water and wet rocks.
• Neutral Density Filters: For longer exposures to capture waterfalls with silky-smooth water.
• Microfiber Cloth or Lens Wipes: To wipe clean and dry your lenses and gear. You’ll be very close to several of the waterfalls, and the spray can get on your gear.
• Waterproof Gear: Protect your camera with waterproof covers, and consider using a dry bag to keep your equipment safe from moisture.

Final Thoughts

Ricketts Glen State Park is an amazing location for landscape photographers, offering a plenty of natural beauty to capture. From the majestic waterfalls to the serene Lake Jean, every corner of the park presents an opportunity for stunning photos. Whether you’re an experienced photographer or a beginner, Ricketts Glen promises to inspire and challenge you.