Bushkill Falls — “The Niagara of Pennsylvania”

If you only do one classic Poconos outing during your stay, make it this one. Bushkill Falls is a series of eight waterfalls tucked into a deep, hemlock-shaded gorge, connected by a clever network of wooden bridges and walkways that make the whole thing feel like a treetop adventure. The main falls drop a full 100 feet, and the spray on a warm day is the best natural air conditioning in Pennsylvania. Trails range from a 15-minute stroll to a two-hour loop that hits every falls, so it works whether you’re hauling toddlers or hiking with teenagers who need tiring out. Go early on summer weekends — the parking lot fills by late morning — or aim for a weekday when you’ll practically have the boardwalks to yourself. Autumn is spectacular here, with the gorge turning every shade of orange. It’s about 30–40 minutes from most of our Pads, and pairs perfectly with lunch in Stroudsburg on the way home. Wear real shoes; flip-flops and 100-year-old wooden stairs don’t mix.