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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

Designation

State Natural Area

Total Wilderness Area

2,845

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse 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 30 miles.

Ricketts Glen State Park: Nature's Hidden Gem★ 8.8⌖ 2 miHiking
Ricketts Glen State Park

Ricketts Glen State Park: Nature's Hidden Gem

Explore Ricketts Glen State Park in Benton, PA. The park's Falls Trail is a challenging 7.2-mile loop with 21 waterfalls. Ideal for hiking, nature walks, and bird watching. Best visited in fall for stunning foliage, sturdy footwear recommended.

Tranquil Waters of the Susquehanna River⌖ 19 miKayaking
Susquehanna River

Tranquil Waters of the Susquehanna River

Explore the tranquil Susquehanna River, stretching 444 miles through PA, ideal for kayaking and fishing. Family-friendly with scenic views and wildlife spotting. Enjoy year-round adventures with moderate crowds and stunning spring and fall scenes.

Waterfall Wonders at Glen Onoko Falls★ 8.5⌖ 42 miHiking
Glen Onoko Falls

Waterfall Wonders at Glen Onoko Falls

Explore Glen Onoko Falls near Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania. Known for its scenic beauty and challenging access, this area offers hiking and birding opportunities. Access to the falls is restricted for safety. Visit in spring or fall for the best experience.

Discover Hawk Mountain Sanctuary★ 8.8⌖ 51 miBirdwatching
Hawk Mountain Sanctuary

Discover Hawk Mountain Sanctuary

Hawk Mountain Sanctuary offers stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains and is renowned for birdwatching, particularly during fall migrations. The sanctuary is a photographer's delight but can get busy during peak seasons. Enjoy hiking and catching sight of migratory raptors in this protected area.

BirdwatchingView Details→
Majestic Peaks of Mount Ararat★ 9.2⌖ 54 miClimbing
Mount Ararat

Majestic Peaks of Mount Ararat

Experience the majestic peaks of Mount Ararat in eastern Turkey. At over 5,100 meters, this difficult climb is best attempted from June to September. Ideal for climbers and photographers, enjoy breathtaking views and explore the legendary site linked to Noah's Ark.

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
⌖ 10.58 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Benton, Pennsylvania

A quaint town offering stunning natural landscapes and a gateway to outdoor pursuits in the scenic regions of northeastern Pennsylvania.

Spring to FallExplore Town
Laporte
⌖ 11.73 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Laporte, Pennsylvania

A quiet, forested gateway to diverse outdoor adventures with a rustic small-town charm nestled in the Pocono Mountains region.

Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for snowmobilingExplore Town
Shickshinny
⌖ 14.84 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Shickshinny, Pennsylvania

A peaceful small town on the Susquehanna River offering easy access to serene paddling, hiking trails, and scenic natural areas in northeastern Pennsylvania.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Hunlock Creek
⌖ 15.19 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Hunlock Creek, Pennsylvania

A quiet riverside community offering intimate access to woodland trails, river paddling, and seasonal outdoor escapes amid northeastern Pennsylvania’s rugged landscapes.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Nanticoke
⌖ 18.01 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Nanticoke, Pennsylvania

A small town with easy access to outdoor activities that combine river paddling, local hiking trails, and nearby forest preserves for a laid-back adventure experience.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Forksville
⌖ 18.81 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Forksville, Pennsylvania

A charming small town nestled in the Endless Mountains offering tranquil outdoor adventures with a focus on paddling, hiking, and fishing in a peaceful rural setting.

Spring through FallExplore 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.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.