You’re standing at the base of the Main Falls. The mist is hitting your face, and honestly, it’s a lot colder than you thought it would be. That’s the thing about the weather in Bushkill Falls—it’s a bit of a trickster. People see "Pennsylvania" and think mild, but once you step into that deep shale gorge, the temperature drops five to ten degrees faster than you can zip up a hoodie.
It’s humid. It’s damp. It’s perfect.
If you're planning a trip to the "Niagara of Pennsylvania," you've probably looked at a generic weather app. Big mistake. Those apps usually pull data from the nearest airport or town center, but the microclimate inside the park is its own beast. Whether you're chasing the spring melt or trying to catch the peak foliage in October, the air behaves differently when it's squeezed between rock walls and soaked in waterfall spray.
Why the Rain is Actually Your Best Friend
Most people see a 40% chance of rain and cancel their plans. Don't be that person.
Actually, a rainy day at Bushkill is kinda the best-kept secret. When it drizzles, the crowds vanish. You get those eight waterfalls all to yourself, and they look way more "moody" for your photos. More importantly, the volume of water increases. A dry July can turn the falls into a sad trickle, but a rainy Tuesday in May? That’s when you see the power.
The park is basically a massive network of wooden stairs and boardwalks. These are well-maintained, so even if the ground is muddy, your boots are mostly hitting wood. Just watch your step on the Red Trail if it’s been pouring; those stairs get slick.
👉 See also: Convert American Dollars to New Zealand Dollars: What Most People Get Wrong
The Spring Surge (April to May)
April is when the park wakes up. It’s also when the weather in Bushkill Falls is the most unpredictable. You might start your hike in a T-shirt and end it in a light flurry of snow.
- April Highs: 60°F
- April Lows: 38°F
- The Vibe: Everything is electric green, and the water is at its maximum "roar" due to the snowmelt from the higher Pocono peaks.
May is arguably the sweet spot. The average high hits about 71°F, which is perfect for the steep climbs on the Yellow or Blue trails. You aren't sweating through your shirt yet, but the ice is definitely gone.
Surviving the Summer Humidity
July and August are the "big" months. It gets hot. Average highs sit around 84°F, but the humidity is what really gets you. Because you’re in a heavily forested area with constant moving water, the air feels thick.
If you’re visiting during a heatwave, stick to the Green Trail. It’s the shortest (about 15 minutes) and keeps you close to the Main Falls where the natural air conditioning from the spray keeps things bearable. If you tackle the two-mile Red Trail in August, bring twice as much water as you think you need. Seriously. The "strenuous" label on that trail isn't just a suggestion when it's 85 degrees and 75% humidity.
The Afternoon Thunderstorm Factor
In the Poconos, summer afternoons almost always come with a threat of a pop-up thunderstorm. They usually roll in around 3:00 PM or 4:00 PM. They’re fast, loud, and intense. The good news? They usually pass in an hour. If the sky turns that weird bruised purple color, head toward the gift shop or the fudge shop (get the fudge, it’s legendary) and wait it out.
The Autumn Transformation (September to November)
September is arguably the most pleasant month for weather in Bushkill Falls. The humidity finally breaks. You’ve got highs in the mid-70s and crisp, cool mornings that make you want to actually hike the full loop.
By October, the park looks like a painting. This is peak foliage season.
The water flow might be lower than in the spring, but the contrast of the white water against the fiery red and orange maples is unbeatable.
- October Highs: 63°F
- October Lows: 42°F
- Pro Tip: Wear layers. The gorge traps the cold morning air, and it stays chilly down by the water long after the sun has hit the parking lot.
The Big Winter Shutdown
Here is where a lot of people get caught out: Bushkill Falls is NOT open year-round.
They usually shut the gates for the season around late November. For 2026, the park is closed through March. If you’re reading this in January, don't drive out there. The trails are steep and the wooden boardwalks become literal ice skating rinks in the winter. It’s a safety nightmare, so they keep it locked up until the spring thaw.
Historically, the reopening happens in early April, weather permitting. If there was a late-season blizzard, that date might slide. Always check their official site or social media before you make the trek in early spring.
Packing for the Microclimate
Forget looking stylish. You need to be functional. Because the weather in Bushkill Falls involves a lot of moisture—either from the sky or the falls themselves—cotton is your enemy. Once it gets damp, it stays damp and makes you cold.
- Footwear: Wear shoes with actual grip. Sneakers are okay for the Green Trail, but if you’re doing the Blue or Red trails, hiking boots with ankle support are better for those hundreds of stairs.
- Rain Shell: Even on a sunny day, a light waterproof shell is nice for the mist at the base of the falls.
- The "Gorge Layer": Even in June, carry a light long-sleeve in your pack. The temperature difference between the top of the trail and the bottom of the gorge can be startling.
Practical Steps for Your Trip
- Check the flow: If it hasn't rained in two weeks, the falls won't be as impressive. Try to visit 24–48 hours after a good rainstorm for the best views.
- Arrive early: In the summer, the park gets crowded by 11:00 AM. Arriving at 9:00 AM gets you the coolest temperatures and the quietest trails.
- Download maps: Cell service in the gorge is spotty at best. Don't rely on a live weather radar update once you're deep on the Red Trail.
- Budget for entry: Remember that this is a privately owned park. Expect to pay around $20 for adults, though prices fluctuate slightly by season and age.
The weather in Bushkill Falls defines the experience. You can see the same waterfall three times in a year and it will look like three different places depending on the sky and the temperature. Respect the humidity, prepare for the stairs, and don't be afraid of a little Pennsylvania rain.
To get the most out of your visit, keep a close eye on the local forecast for the Delaware Water Gap area specifically, rather than just "The Poconos," as it provides a more accurate picture of what's happening on the ground at the falls. Make sure to verify the exact opening dates for the 2026 season on the official Bushkill Falls website before heading out in early April.