The unusual crystal turquoise water, natural pools, and a waterfall you can jump off of makes Rock Run one of Pennsylvania’s most scenic swimming destinations.
Rock Run in the McIntyre Wild Area of Loyalscok State Forest in Lycoming County, PA is famous for is crystal-clear turquoise water, unusual rock formations, polished rock chutes, multiple swimming holes and jumps. There is even a waterfall you can jump off of! It is arguably one of the best natural swimming areas in all of Pennsylvania.
To be more precise, Rock Run is not just “a” swimming hole but consists of several that can be grouped into three sections. Each section is accessible from the gravel Rock Run Road which parallels the stream through the gorge. Coming from the direction of Ralston the three sections are Lower Falls, Middle Falls, and Upper Falls. Each section has a parking lot and paths leading to the water. We started at Lower Falls, parking at 41.50596, -76.93716. We followed the path and steps down the deep bank to a large rock slab jutting into the swimming hole at 41.50597, -76.93645. The flat rock makes a great hangout area and platform for jumping into the water. During the warmer months, this is a great place to lay out towels beach-style and lounge while listening to the flowing water, splashing, and laughter. The name “Lower Falls” is something of a misnomer. There is a cascade about two feet high, a minutes’ walk downstream of the swimming hole. Scenic, but it’s not really a waterfall. In any case, there is a fun water-carved channel there where you can let the water wash over you.
The parking for Middle Falls is about 1.5 miles upstream at 41.51701, -76.91405. Middle Falls is the most interesting of the three swimming areas. The curious waterfall is unlike anything we’ve seen in our travels. The stream drops suddenly into a deep channel of polished rock. The roiling flow tumbles turbulently through the chute, down a cascade, feeding a natural rectangular pool.
A most unusual out-of-place spherical boulder perched at the top of the waterfall. It is reminiscent of a stuck pinball!
The large rock slab around the natural pool is another great lounge spot jumping platform.
The water here is particularly striking, ranging from turquoise to teal, and crystal-clear. It looks more like what one would expect to find in the Caribbean than Pennsylvania.
The parking for Upper Falls is at 41.52176, -76.90782, half a mile upstream from Middle Falls. Upper Falls is remarkable as Rock Run’s tallest waterfall and highest jump. The jump spot is on the eastern side of the stream (opposite side from thee parking area). You can cross to the jump spot in the shallow water just upstream of the falls. See the video below for details. What a fun experience! But even if you are not inclined to jump, the beauty of surging waterfall and carved turquoise tub make this a worthy destination.
We made our way downstream of the waterfall to explore the carved canyon and chutes of polished rock. More intrepid and sure-footed adventurers can make their way via the narrow cliff ledge.
CAUTION: The ledge is narrow, rocky, and requires maneuvering around a tight turn on the cliff edge. The rocks are slippery when wet.
If you are not comfortable with the ledge or cpnditions are not suitable, you can enjoy the view of the canyon from the paths on the rim above.
Rock Run is the total package with easy access, multiple swimming holes, waterfalls, jumps, stunningly beautiful turquoise water, polished stone chutes, and unusual rock formations. As such, you can expect company especially on hot summer days.
Is Rock Run the most beautiful and fun natural swimming area in all of Pennsylvania? Go see for yourself!
McIntyre Wild Area is brimming with outdoor adventures waiting to be explored. Bundle your trip with these nearby excursions:
McIntyre Wild Area
Abbott Run
Scenic Overlook
Pennsylvania Ghost Town
Be sure to check out our other adventures.
