Name: Hornbecks Creek Trail
Rating: 3.7

Toolbox

Plan in onX Backcountry

Driving directions
Download GPX File

Know This Trail?

Upload a photo

Dogs Leashed

Features Fall Colors · River/Creek · Views · Waterfall

Family Friendly Kids will love the waterfalls and beautiful scenery along the trail.

Due to trail instability, the section of Hornbecks Creek Trail previously located between Lower and Upper Indian Ladders has been closed by the NPS, pending a stability survey and trail rebuild. Access to Upper Indian Ladders is open via the Hornbecks Creek Trail - Indian Ladders Access located south of the Indian Ladders Upper Parking Area.

Overview

The Hornbecks Creek Trail, or Indian Ladders as it is locally known, provides visitors with a sublime experience traveling along verdant, mixed hardwood forests, mossy creeks, and spectacular falling water.

Description

Starting at the Indian Ladders Lower Parking Area, climb gently along Hornbecks Creek through a broad ravine lush with mixed hardwoods. Three-quarters of a mile up the trail, continue straight through a trail junction.

Climbing through the ravine, keep your eyes peeled for a fork in the creek, at which point look left to see Lower Indian Ladders come into view. Follow the trail down to the falls, perhaps stop and eat your lunch, and take your time as you enjoy one of Pennsylvania's most beautiful cascades.

For those wishing to view the Upper Indian Ladders, return the way you came and drive to the Hornbecks Creek Upper Parking Area, from which point you can hike down the Hornbecks Creek Trail - Upper Indian Ladders Access to reach the brilliant upper falls.

Flora & Fauna

Mixed hardwood forests make this area an absolute must-visit during the autumn. Keep your eyes peeled for white and red oak, shagbark hickory, red maple, and chestnut along the trail.