Kennedy’s Mill

Pull over to the side of the road shortly after passing the bridge over Frew Falls. There is a little gravel patch next to the trees beside the guard rail. Please be aware that neither the parking lot nor the trail are marked with signs. After parking, climb the guardrail to access the ABC Frew Mill Trail, which circles the creek.  A small beach area with a swimming hole on a rock island located in the center of the creek is found a mere mile back on the walk. One of the local favorite natural retreats, this region is McConnell’s Mill State Park’s less visited and more isolated neighbor. There are several large rocks and tight slot canyons to discover on the ABC Trail proper. You can quickly take a plunge in the cool waters whenever you start to become hot and sweaty from your forest exploration.  Since the waters are always moving quickly, they are immaculate and quite fresh. The abundance of enormous rocks strewn about makes the waters calmer and deeper. These rocks are also excellent spots for relaxing and taking in the summertime scenery while sunbathing.

Jackson Falls

The falls are quite substantial for Western Pennsylvania, and at the bottom, there is a lovely small swimming hole that is about five feet deep. The entire region is heavily forested and teeming with wildlife. At the waterfalls, a villager’s made-shift ladder is a fallen tree climbing the mountainside.  With the last rays of sunlight peeping through the tall woods at dusk, the glittering scene was turned into a picture straight out of a fairy tale. Locals have said that their time spent swimming in this little gem was among the most magical in the whole state!

Meadow Run Natural Rock Water Slides

Meadow Run provides year-round outdoor activity! It flows directly into the Lower Youghiogheny River and is stunning in both springtime and the depths of winter. View the ice on the natural water slides at Meadow Run.  It seems to revitalize, particularly during this time of year. Sheets of Homewood sandstone, dating back 300 million years, are used to create the natural water slides. A smooth tunnel between a gap that sweeps riders to the bottom has been built by ages of flowing water. Be sure to ask locals how it’s running when you arrive in town because the length and velocity of the slide rely on the water levels. If it’s too great, you won’t want to descend it, specifically if you have little children. Most of the time, summertime levels are ideal for a ton of fun for most ages.

Blue Hole in Jacob’s Creek

Inside the Forbes State Forest, at the intersection of Gary Run and Blue Hole Creek, there is a lovely swimming hole. The water’s bluish hue is what gave it its name. Because the water is so clear, you should bring a snorkel so you may explore beneath the surface.  This spring-fed brook is cool but wonderful on a sunny summer day. At the entrance, there is a kiosk with information. Make sure to check out the neighboring Cole Run Road hiking route as well! This place contains a massive spot to leap into the huge swimming hole and a tiny waterfall. For the locals, it almost feels like a rite of passage. Climb up the rocks repeatedly to jump off the built-in diving platform.

Perkiomen Creek

From its junction with the Schuykill River at Oaks to its location south of Green Lane, Perkiomen Creek provides 18 miles of navigable waters. Various public parks and protected lands can be found along the water path route.  On an old railroad track that runs alongside the creek for 20 miles, the Perkiomen Trail serves as a gateway to the creek. From Green Lane to the Schuykill, the stream flows freely, but there are a few minor dams and ruins of historic mill dams scattered throughout its whole course.  The Perkiomen Valley’s wilds can be enjoyed spectacularly on both the water trail and its land-based equivalent. This is a great spot for the whole family to enjoy a relaxing day in the water! 

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Jackson Falls are quite substantial for Western Pennsylvania, and at the bottom, there is a lovely small swimming hole that is about five feet deep. The entire region is heavily forested and teeming with wildlife. At the waterfalls, a villager’s made-shift ladder is a fallen tree climbing the mountainside.  Where is a unique place to visit in Pennsylvania? Meadow Run provides year-round outdoor activity! It flows directly into the Lower Youghiogheny River and is stunning in both springtime and the depths of winter. View the ice on the natural water slides at Meadow Run.