Hawk Falls Trail: Short, Sweet, and Slammed

1.2 miles, rhododendron tunnels, and a 25-foot waterfall. Here's the parking strategy and swimming rules.

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Hawk Falls Trail: Short, Sweet, and Slammed

Quick Facts

  • Distance: 1.2 miles round-trip (~0.6 miles each way)
  • Elevation Change: ~200 feet (downhill to falls, uphill return)
  • Difficulty: Moderate (short but rocky, rooty, and steep on return)
  • Time: 45 minutes to 1 hour
  • Best For: Families, waterfall chasers, rhododendron enthusiasts
  • Warnings: Parking fills early, swimming prohibited, crowds

Hawk Falls Trail is 1.2 miles round-trip. It takes 45 minutes. It’s one of the most popular hikes in Pennsylvania. The parking lot on PA Route 534 fills by 10 AM on weekends. If you arrive at 11, you’re parking along the highway. The trail descends through tunnels of rhododendron to a 25-foot waterfall. Swimming is prohibited, but people wade in the pool. The uphill return is steeper than you’d expect. This is the guide for doing Hawk Falls right.

Located in Hickory Run State Park, the trail is marked with yellow blazes and is accessible year-round. For current trail conditions, check AllTrails.

Hiker walking through dense rhododendron tunnel on Hawk Falls Trail in Hickory Run State Park Rhododendron tunnels line the trail - best in late June/early July

The Parking Situation (Arrive Early)

PA Route 534 Lot

  • Location: Just east of the I-476 (Turnpike) overpass.
  • Capacity: Fits dozens of cars but fills by 10 AM on weekends.
  • Strategy: Arrive before 9 AM or after 3 PM.

Overflow Parking

  • Reality: People park along PA 534.
  • Warning: Can be dangerous due to the narrow shoulder and fast traffic. Some spots are illegal, so check for signs.

Facilities

Portable toilets are usually available at the parking lot (seasonal). For restrooms with running water, visit the Hickory Run State Park Visitor Center, approximately 3 miles away.

Packed parking lot at Hawk Falls trailhead on PA Route 534 The parking lot fills by 10 AM on weekends

The Trail (Rhododendron Tunnels to Waterfall)

The Descent (First Half)

  • Distance: ~0.6 miles downhill.
  • Features: Dense rhododendron thickets create natural “tunnels.” You’ll cross a wooden footbridge over Hawk Run before following Mud Run downstream.
  • Bloom Time: Late June to early July (pink/purple flowers).
  • Footing: Roots, rocks, and some muddy sections. The trail is well-marked with yellow blazes.

Wooden footbridge crossing Hawk Run on Hawk Falls Trail Cross the footbridge over Hawk Run

The Falls

  • Height: 25 feet.
  • Setting: A natural waterfall carved into rock where Hawk Run meets Mud Run.
  • Pool: Small pool at the base (wading is common despite prohibition).
  • Best Time: Spring for maximum water flow, late June/early July for rhododendron blooms, October for fall foliage.

Hawk Falls cascading 25 feet into pool where Hawk Run meets Mud Run Hawk Falls - 25 feet of cascading water

The Return (Uphill)

  • Challenge: Steeper than you’d expect for such a short hike.
  • Elevation Gain: 200 feet over 0.6 miles.
  • Tip: Take your time. It’s a workout.

Swimming Rules (Know Before You Wade)

Official Rule

Swimming is prohibited at waterfalls in Pennsylvania State Parks due to safety hazards.

Reality

People wade in the pool at the base of the falls. Rangers may ticket for swimming or jumping.

Official Swimming

Sand Spring Lake is the only designated swimming area in Hickory Run State Park.

Extending the Hike (Orchard Trail Loop)

The Loop

  • Distance: ~2.5 miles total (adds 1.3 miles to Hawk Falls out-and-back).
  • Route: From Hawk Falls, follow Mud Run upstream to connect with the Orchard Trail, which loops back to PA 534.
  • Who It’s For: Hikers who want more mileage and fewer crowds.

Safety & Logistics

Footwear

Sneakers or hiking boots. The trail has roots and rocks. It is not a paved path.

Crowds

Extremely popular. Expect “Disney World” levels of crowds on summer Saturdays. Go on a weekday if possible.

Winter

Popular for ice hiking, but the trail gets very icy. Microspikes are recommended.

Dogs

Allowed on a 6-foot leash.

FAQ

When should I arrive for parking? Before 9 AM on weekends. After 3 PM is also an option.

How hard is the trail? Moderate. It’s short (1.2 miles round-trip) but has roots, rocks, and a steep uphill return.

Can I swim at Hawk Falls? Swimming is officially prohibited. Rangers may ticket. Wading is common but not encouraged.

When do the rhododendrons bloom? Late June to early July.

Can I bring my dog? Yes, on a 6-foot leash.

Is there a longer hike option? Yes. Connect with the Orchard Trail for a 2.5-mile loop.

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Oscar

Oscar

Staff Writer

So glad you're here! I'm a lifelong hiker. The trails of this state have shaped who I am — from the waterfalls of the Poconos to the ridgelines of the Laurel Highlands — and in 2024 I started HikingPA to help more people discover what's out there. Whether you're planning your first hike, chasing waterfalls, or just looking for your next adventure in the Keystone State, I hope this becomes the resource you turn to. Thanks for being part of this community — I can't wait to explore Pennsylvania together.