About This Location
Ricketts Glen State Park is a large, forested park in northeastern Pennsylvania best known for its waterfalls, deep ravines, and mature hardwood and evergreen forests. The park's mix of shaded woodland trails, open edges, hemlock groves, and nearby fields creates excellent habitat for a wide variety of songbirds, making it a rewarding destination for birders and bird photographers throughout spring and summer.
Photography Notes
When I bird at Ricketts Glen, I tend to focus on a few favorite areas, even though birds can be found throughout the park's many trails and habitats. I usually begin at the trailhead parking lot along Route 118 and walk toward the falls, where I can often count on flycatchers and migrating warblers. After doubling back, I cross the road to the Evergreen Trailhead and frequently walk the entire loop, a route that has been especially reliable for Black-throated Blue and Hooded Warblers, along with several vireo species. From there, I often drive to Hynick Road, where Cerulean Warblers and many other songbirds have been regular highlights. Continuing down Hynick and turning right onto Route 487 leads to the main park entrance, where multiple parking areas provide access to additional trails, diverse habitats, and, of course, the waterfalls themselves. One spot I especially enjoy is the Hayfields, just north of the park entrance along Route 487. The open grassy areas and bordering trees offer well-lit perches and excellent opportunities for photography, and the nearby nest boxes have produced wonderful encounters with Tree Swallows and Eastern Bluebirds. With nearby State Game Lands offering even more habitat to explore, Ricketts Glen consistently provides a full and rewarding day of birding.
Location
