Burgess Falls State Park
A short ridge trail follows the Falling Water River past successively larger cascades to the 136-foot main falls and a historic hydroelectric landscape.
Artwork inspired by Charles Krutch
The sequence matters more than a single endpoint. River gradient, resistant rock, old dam structures, and narrowing gorge increase force downstream; high water makes that progression dramatic but also raises spray, footing, and closure risk.
Walk the overlooks in order and remain behind barriers—the gorge descent is closed and extremely hazardous. Check high-water conditions, expect roots and stairs, and understand that boating access below the falls follows separate rules and launch points.
- upper cascades
- Cascades build toward climax
- main-falls overlook
- Main waterfall viewed safely
- historic powerhouse traces
- Hydropower history remains visible
Quick guide
- First move
- At Burgess Falls State Park, begin with upper cascades: A short ridge trail follows the Falling Water River past successively larger cascades to the 136-foot main falls and a historic hydroelectric landscape.
- Second look
- main-falls overlook: The sequence matters more than a single endpoint.
Let terrain determine the day
- Start with
- upper cascades: A short ridge trail follows the Falling Water River past successively larger cascades to the 136-foot main falls and a historic hydroelectric landscape.
- Look closely at
- main-falls overlook: The sequence matters more than a single endpoint.
- Connect the story
- historic powerhouse traces: Four cascades tightening toward a powerful gorge.
- Plan around
- Walk the overlooks in order and remain behind barriers—the gorge descent is closed and extremely hazardous.
Good to know
Burgess Falls State Park: check high-water conditions, expect roots and stairs, and understand that boating access below the falls follows separate rules and launch points.
Notice these
- upper cascades
- main-falls overlook
- historic powerhouse traces