If you ask anyone what to do at Beltzville State Park, a common answer will be to hike to Wild Creek Falls. The small waterfall is a big draw and is relatively easy to get to.
Whether you want the short and sweet trail to the waterfall or the longer, leisurely Christman Trail, you’ll encounter some beautiful scenery along the way.
If you’re planning a trip to the Poconos and Beltzville State Park is on your list, don’t skip this pretty, family-friendly trail.
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Two Options to Get to Wild Creek Falls
Wild Creek Falls is a popular destination at Beltzville State Park. You can get to the small waterfall two different ways.
The shortest, most direct way is to park at the Wild Creek Falls trailhead lot. From there, you’ll follow the trail about a quarter-mile to the falls, and then you can loop around or backtrack.
I chose to take the Christman Trail and connect to the Falls Trail, making the loop about 2.5 miles. It all depends on what you are looking to get out of your hike!
Prepare For Your Hike to Wild Creek Falls at Beltzville State Park
Seasonal Closures
Before you head out on your hike at Beltzville State Park, keep in mind the parking lots for Wild Creek Falls, Christman, and Trinity Gorge trails are closed on weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Parking
The parking lot at the Christman trailhead is small and holds about 4-5 cars. The Wild Creek Falls trailhead parking lot is larger and holds about a dozen cars. As noted above, both parking areas are closed on weekends during the summer.
Amenities
There are no bathrooms at either Christman or Wild Creek Falls trailheads. The closest bathrooms are at the Pine Run Boat Launch and also the main recreation area.
Pets
Leashed dogs are allowed on the trails at Beltzville State Park
Cellular Coverage
I had decent cell service while at Beltzville State Park. But it’s always a good idea to download a map just in case!
Be Prepared
No matter how short the trail is, it’s always a good idea to bring the necessary items with you, including water and first-aid supplies.
Be a Responsible Visitor
Remember to respect nature while you visit this park. Stay on established paths, pack out your trash (including food waste), and leave what you find behind.
The more popular these destinations become, the more we need to be diligent about keeping our parks and lands clean and safe for all. You can learn more here.
Hiking to Wild Creek Falls via Christman Trail
| Trail Location: | At the Christmas Trail parking area on Pohopoco Drive. |
| Trail Length: | 2.5 miles |
| Trail Difficulty: | Easy side of moderate |
| Trail Type: | Loop |
| Elevation Gain: | 210 feet |
| Dog Friendly: | Yes |
Starting the Trail
I wanted a longer hike to Wild Creek Falls, so I started at the Christman trailhead. It starts off pretty easy, with a wide grassy path leading through the trees.
Pick a Direction
After about a quarter mile, you face a decision to go clockwise or counterclockwise on the loop.
I chose to go counterclockwise, and after a few yards, I was faced with a second choice: either go through the trees or stay on the grass. I wanted a change of scenery, so I chose the pine forest. The trails reconnect after less than a quarter mile.
Along the Trail
For the most part, the Christman Trail is rather uneventful. It’s a wide, flat trail, mostly comprised of grass or dirt. It’s made for cross-country skiing in the winter, so that should give you an idea of what to expect. It offers some very beautiful scenery, though!
Connecting to Wild Creek Falls Trail
Less than a mile along the trail, you’ll come across a sign directing you to the right to connect to the Falls Trail. This portion of the trail is steep and rocky, more like your typical hiking trail.
Wild Creek
As you approach Wild Creek, there is a short path with access to the water. From there, you can see the small footbridge you’ll eventually be crossing and just a nice view of the water.
Good to know: There are several signs along the different access points of Wild Creek that say “no swimming”.
Crossing the Footbridge
Return to the main trail and continue to the footbridge. The bridge provides some beautiful views of the water as you cross.
To Wild Creek Falls
After crossing the bridge, follow the yellow blazes to Wild Creek Falls. You may be tempted to stop a little early (near another “no swimming” sign), but follow the trail up the rocky path and past the large boulder. Eventually, you’ll see the waterfall pretty clearly.
Wild Creek Falls
It’s not the biggest or most impressive waterfall in the area, but Wild Creek Falls is still pretty to see, even if it’s only about 12 feet tall. Enjoy the sights and sounds, then backtrack to the Christman Trail.
Back to the Parking Lot
After viewing the waterfall, return to the Christman Trail the way you came, via the Yellow Trail. You’ll have to endure the ascent back up, but it’s not too bad. Once you reconnect to the Christman Trail, turn right, then left, and follow it back to the parking lot. If you miss the left, you’ll end up at the Wild Creek Falls parking lot.
The rest of the Christman Trail is very similar to the start, as it’s a wide, flat, grassy trail. Again, there are some nice things to look at, but it’s not that exciting.
Wrapping Up the Christman Trail to Wild Creek Falls
Overall, this was a pleasant and easy trail. It reminded me of the kind of trails you find at Nockamixon State Park. These types of trails aren’t always my favorites, since I prefer more action on the trail (with more opportunities to trip and fall).
Other Trails Nearby
Beltzville State Park is very close to other great state parks and hiking trails. The Glen Onoko Trail and Lehigh Gorge Overlook in Lehigh Gorge State Park is a great option. We also love the two popular hikes at Hickory Run (Hawk Falls and Shades of Death). For more of a challenge, the Lehigh Gap East Loop is a fun one. No waterfalls on this trail, but there is a fantastic rock scramble.
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