How to Hike to Hackers Falls + Tips & FAQs

ByAlex Schnee

This guide contains affiliate links to trusted partners.

When exploring the outdoors, I encourage you to follow Leave No Trace Principles and be respectful of where you are so we can preserve these spaces for future generations. ♥️

Looking to hike to Hackers Falls when in the Delaware Water Gap?

Daniel and I fell in love with the Delaware Water Gap and how beautiful the area was when we visited. One of our favorite parts? How accessible the trails were and how many beautiful waterfalls to visit. Hackers Falls was up there when it came to some of our favorite things to do in this amazing recreation area, and I highly recommend checking them out if you have the chance!

However, it can be a bit of a challenge to find the trailhead. Also, because there are so many intersecting trails, getting lost is a definite possibility. Making sure you have a map or way to navigate can keep you from ending up on a trail that you hadn’t planned!

We’ll go over some of the things you should know before you head out to see these beautiful falls, including how to find the trailhead, which way to turn, and whether or not you can take a dip when you get there.

In summary: This article will go over what you need to know when hiking to Hackers Falls in the Delaware Water Gap, as well as some tips from me and common FAQs.

Quick tip: There’s a lot to explore in the Delaware Water Gap region than just hiking! I recommend two days to get the full experience–a weekend to explore is perfect.

Quick stats

Distance: 3.3 miles (with Cliff Trail Loop)

Difficulty: Moderate

Elevation gain: 538 feet

Time on trail: 1 hour and 30 minutes

How to hike to Hackers Falls

The trailhead is easily accessible from Milford, Pennsylvania. You’ll take I-84 to exit 46, then head east on US-6 for about two miles, south on US-209 for 2.5 miles, and then make a right onto Raymondskill Road. After just 0.3 miles, you’ll reach the parking areas. There are actually two lots to choose from—the lower Hackers Falls lot right across from the yellow-blazed trailhead, and a larger upper lot near Raymondskill Falls that has composting toilets. I always recommend arriving early because these lots fill up fast, especially on weekends when they can be at 50% capacity by 9:10 AM!

The hike to Hackers Falls is approximately 1.6 miles round-trip with about 580 feet of elevation gain (without the Cliff Trail Loop), making it a perfect moderate adventure for most hikers. What I love about this trail is how it starts with a gentle climb through gorgeous eastern hemlock forests that create this incredible cathedral-like canopy above you. The first 0.75 miles is pretty manageable, winding through dense woods on well-established paths mixed with some old woods roads.

Navigation requires some attention since there are multiple trail intersections where the yellow-blazed Hackers Trail connects with other colored trails. The key turns are at about mile 0.5 (a critical left turn) and mile 0.6 (bear right), so keep an eye out for those yellow blazes. Cell service is pretty spotty throughout the area, so downloading an offline map or bringing a physical trail map is definitely smart.

A view of Hackers Falls.

When you finally reach Hackers Falls, you’ll understand why this waterfall is so special. The cascade creates this incredible fan shape that honestly looks like a wedding dress as it widens from top to bottom. There are some great flat areas near the base where you can sit and enjoy lunch while listening to the rushing water.

If you’re feeling ambitious, you can extend your hike by connecting to the Cliff Trail for a 3.3-mile loop that includes some fantastic overlooks of the Delaware River valley. The views from Tri-State Overlook are pretty spectacular—you can actually see into New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania all at once!

delaware water gap
View from the Cliff Trail over the Delaware Water Gap.

Map of the Hackers Falls hike

map of the hackers falls and cliff trail hike
Map of the Hackers Falls and Cliff Trail loop hike.

Tips for hiking to Hackers Falls

Here are some tips I found helpful when hiking to Hackers Falls.

  • Consider adding the Cliff Trail to your hike: While it does add an extra 1.7 miles, taking on the Cliff Trail gives you some more bang for your buck–a waterfall and an overlook!
  • Have a navigation app downloaded: AllTrails or another app is a good idea when hiking in the Delaware Water Gap since it can be a bit confusing with so many intersecting trails. Make sure you also have your map downloaded before you go since service can be spotty.
  • Check for ticks afterwards: This area is known for being a tick haven–remember to wear a hat and check for ticks after hiking anywhere in Pennsylvania or in the Delaware Water Gap.

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Hackers Falls hike FAQs

Here are some commonly-asked questions about Hackers Falls and how to hike to them.

The Hackers Falls hike is rated as moderate difficulty–it’s manageable for most hikers with basic experience. The first part is a gentle climb through forests, but the descent to the waterfall gets steep and rocky with some challenging -18% grades. The rocky, root-filled terrain can be slippery when wet, so good hiking boots are essential.

No, swimming is strictly prohibited at Hackers Falls. The National Park Service enforces this rule year-round because the rocky creek bed and powerful water flow create serious safety hazards. The slippery rocks around the waterfall base make it dangerous to get too close. You’re required to stay at least 50 feet away from the falls, but there are great viewing and picnic spots that are safe and still offer beautiful views.

Yes, but with some considerations! The moderate distance works well for families with kids who have some hiking experience. The steep, rocky descent near the waterfall requires supervision and can be challenging for smaller children. I’d recommend it for families with kids aged 8 and up who are comfortable on uneven terrain. The beautiful forest walk and unique fan-shaped waterfall make it worth the effort!

If you have the time and energy, absolutely! The Cliff Trail extension turns your 1.6-mile hike into a 3.3-mile loop with some incredible payoffs. The overlooks, especially Tri-State Overlook, offer stunning views of the Delaware River valley across three states. It’s a great way to see more of the area’s diverse scenery beyond just the waterfall. Just be prepared for the extra distance.

Dogs are welcome on the Hackers Falls trail, but they must be kept on leash at all times since this is within Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. The rocky, steep sections near the waterfall can be challenging for dogs, so make sure yours is comfortable on uneven terrain. Bring water for your pup, and be extra careful on the descent to the falls where the footing gets tricky.

Conclusion

This was one of my absolute favorite little hikes in the Delaware Water Gap, and it would be the perfect afternoon activity if you happen to be in the area. I also recommend choosing to hike it in the fall–it’s extra beautiful with the fall foliage in full swing, and that time of year usually has perfect hiking temps to make this trail unforgettable.

Have any questions about hiking to Hackers Falls? Let me know in the comments!

Alex is the founder of Alex on the Map, a site devoted to national park guides, hiking, climbing, and enjoying your outdoor adventures. After growing up near Glacier National Park in Montana, Alex now spends summers in the American West hitting up the trail with her husband and dog.

Her work has been featured in Fodor's, the Huffington Post, Bustle, and many more. She has also been featured in publications such as The Washington Post, CNN, and USA Today.

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