Glens Natural Area wilderness guide
State Natural Area · PA

Glens Natural Area

Glens Natural Area is a picturesque section of Ricketts Glen State Park, renowned for its verdant forests and stunning waterfalls.

State Natural Area2,8454+ Trails
DesignationState Natural Area
Total Wilderness Area2,845
Elevation / TerrainDiverse Wilderness
Field Editorial Guide

About Glens Natural Area

Glens Natural Area is a picturesque section of Ricketts Glen State Park, renowned for its verdant forests and stunning waterfalls.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Glens Natural Area is located within the Ricketts Glen State Park in Pennsylvania and is celebrated for its remarkable series of 22 named waterfalls. The area is a part of the Allegheny Plateau, which provides a rich display of mature hardwood forests, abundant wildlife, and diverse plant species. The site is particularly noted for its untouched beauty and has been designated a National Natural Landmark due to its unique ecological characteristics. Glens Natural Area offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and photography, attracting thousands who wish to experience its natural splendor. The Falls Trail, a challenging trek, allows visitors to view most of the waterfalls up close, making it a central attraction. Wildlife enthusiasts may spot white-tailed deer and black bears inhabiting the dense woods, while birdwatchers revel in the presence of species like warblers and thrushes. With its scenic beauty and accessibility, Glens Natural Area serves as a fantastic gateway to discovering the natural wonders of northeastern Pennsylvania.

Field Guide · State Natural Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Glens Natural Area

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ The Falls Trail, featuring 21 waterfalls in a 7.2-mile loop✦ Diverse old-growth forests home to unique fungal and plant species✦ Wildlife sightings including black bears, white-tailed deer, and a variety of birds✦ The serene Lake Jean, ideal for kayaking and relaxation
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Glens Natural Area

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Glens Natural Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No entrance fee, but donations are appreciated to support the park.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Glens Natural Area

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Lake Jean Campground

Located near Lake Jean, offering both modern and rustic sites with access to lakeside activities.

Big Run State Park Primitive Camping

For those seeking solitude, the sites are less developed and offer a closer connection to nature.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Glens Natural Area

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Benton, Pennsylvania
⌖ 10.58 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Benton, Pennsylvania

Benton, Pennsylvania, is an outdoor lover's dream with hiking, kayaking, and fishing all within reach. Explore iconic sites like Ricketts Glen's waterfalls while enjoying this serene town.

Spring to Fall
Explore Town
Laporte, Pennsylvania
⌖ 11.73 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Laporte, Pennsylvania

Laporte, PA is a peaceful Pocono gateway offering hiking, paddling, and snowmobiling amid forested state parks and game lands. Ideal for travelers seeking quiet outdoor escapes with scenic rivers and waterfalls nearby.

Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for snowmobiling
Explore Town
Shickshinny, Pennsylvania
⌖ 14.84 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Shickshinny, Pennsylvania

Shickshinny, Pennsylvania is a quiet river town perfect for paddling, fishing, and hiking nearby peaceful forests and waterways. It’s a great low-key basecamp for enjoying the Susquehanna River and Ricketts Glen’s natural beauty.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Hunlock Creek, Pennsylvania
⌖ 15.19 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Hunlock Creek, Pennsylvania

Hunlock Creek, Pennsylvania, offers a tranquil outdoor getaway with river paddling, fishing, and hiking along forested trails. Perfect for adventurers seeking quiet river access and freshwater experiences in northeastern PA.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Nanticoke, Pennsylvania
⌖ 18.01 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Nanticoke, Pennsylvania

Nanticoke offers quiet river paddling, easy hiking trails, and peaceful parks perfect for outdoor lovers seeking calm nature experiences in northeastern Pennsylvania.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Forksville, Pennsylvania
⌖ 18.81 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Forksville, Pennsylvania

Forksville is a peaceful gateway to Pennsylvania’s Endless Mountains, perfect for paddling on Loyalsock Creek, hiking Worlds End trails, and fishing mountain streams amid beautiful forest scenery.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Glens Natural Area

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Susquehanna River 12 Mile | 5 Hour Day Trip
ADVEXPEDITION
Falls, Pennsylvania
Self-Guided TourADV Bookable

Susquehanna River 12 Mile | 5 Hour Day Trip

Set off on a 12-mile, 5-hour paddle down Pennsylvania’s Susquehanna River that’s perfect for all skill levels, featuring shuttle service, top gear, and stunning riverside views.

Self-Guided TourAges 4+ to ride, 12+ to paddle solo • 12-mile paddle • 5 hours on the riverCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Rad Runner Caboose
ADVEXPEDITION
Jackson, Wyoming
Bike TourADV Bookable

Rad Runner Caboose

Turn a standard bike rental into a family-ready day ride in Grand Teton National Park with the Rad Runner Caboose. Comfortable, secure, and easy to attach, it’s an ideal add-on for parents, photographers, and anyone who needs extra cargo capacity on short scenic loops.

Bike TourCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Axe Throwing
ADVEXPEDITION
Forty Fort, Pennsylvania
Axe ThrowingADV Bookable

Axe Throwing

Looking for a rugged thrill without leaving the city? Discover axe throwing at The Hatchet Factory, where primal fun meets urban excitement. Read on to find out what makes this activity a must-try.

Axe ThrowingAges 6+ • 90 MinutesCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
🚣‍♂️ Wyoming Valley RiverFest Paddle Trips | *RESCHEDULED* July 25–27
ADVEXPEDITION
West Falls, Pennsylvania
Water ActivitiesADV Bookable

🚣‍♂️ Wyoming Valley RiverFest Paddle Trips | *RESCHEDULED* July 25–27

Join us for the rescheduled Wyoming Valley RiverFest Paddle Trips in West Falls, PA. Enjoy guided paddling, a Friday night river concert, and exclusive festival gear on this unforgettable Susquehanna River adventure.

Water ActivitiesAges 4+ • Guided paddle trips with shuttle • 3 unique routes over 3 daysCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip