Jacoby Falls can be delightful or disappointing depending on when you visit. We’ll show you the best way to explore this popular waterfall destination.
Jacoby Falls in Loyalsock State Forest of Lycoming County is a popular waterfall destination. It begins with an attractive trailhead and passes through scenic forest skirting the base of a mountain. However, it is notorious as an all-or-nothing (or very little) waterfall.
The trail is very easy and relatively flat for the first half mile. It becomes rockier and develops a gradual incline as it curves around the mountain into Jacoby Hollow. But is isn’t difficult. After 1.2 miles, the trail passes out of the woods to follow a pipeline access road at 41.38455, -76.90666. After following the road for 0.3 miles, it re-enters the woods at 41.38850, -76.90291. There are signs directing hikers to stay on the designated path.
A large, curved cliff opened in the hollow before us. Jacoby Falls is at 41.39007, -76.90143. During our mid-November excursion, Jacoby Falls consisted of a low-volume main veil and a multitude of trickles all around the cup-like cliff. The main drop is approximately 30 feet high, but the low flow was lackluster. We previously visited the falls in the summer with similar results.
There is a path running at the base of the cliff. It passed under the rock overhang enabling us to walk behind the waterfalls, slightly mitigating our disappointment. Be careful if you go back there because the walking surface is wet.
Overall, the trail is 3.4 miles out-and back.
The Cotner Farm trailhead is at 41.38455, -76.90666.
Jacoby Falls is at 41.39007, -76.90143
Jacoby Falls is a popular because of the easy hike and impressive 30 foot drop. However, it is notorious for its all-or-nothing flow. There are two ways to see the falls in its glory. One is to visit in the spring during snow melt or after consistent substantial rain. The other is to visit in the winter where the many trickles transform the curved cliffs of the hollow into an ice palace.
One caution to be aware of: The Jacoby Falls Trail is extremely buggy during summer. Thankfully the predominant pests are innocuous fruit flies rather than biters. Still, the fruit flies were nearly intolerable swarming into eyes, ears, nose, and mouth. We encountered other adventurers hustling out of there with shirts and towels over their heads! If you visit during the warm months, we strongly recommend hats and head nets.
Be sure to check out our other adventures.
