Bear Creek Preserve
Discover over 9 miles of well-marked trails through natural beauty, featuring Buttermilk Falls and scenic overlooks. A peaceful escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lush greenery and flowing falls
Bear Creek Preserve
Best Time
Lush greenery and flowing falls
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover over 9 miles of well-marked trails through natural beauty, featuring Buttermilk Falls and scenic overlooks. A peaceful escape.
"Beautiful site to spend time exploring & appreciating nature."
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails can be rocky and sometimes wet or muddy. Good hiking boots are recommended for comfort and safety.
🗺️ Follow Trail Markers
The trails are clearly marked, making them easy to navigate. Stick to the paths for the best experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Buttermilk Falls
Accessible from White Haven Road
A picturesque waterfall offering a quick and rewarding photo opportunity. Easy to access for a scenic stop.
+1
Overlook Views
Blue Trail
While some overlooks can be overgrown, others offer neat rock outcrops and glimpses of the surrounding nature.
Extensive Trail Network
Various marked trails
Explore over 9 miles of well-marked trails, offering diverse lengths and terrains for all hiking levels.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Conditions & Accessibility
Parking & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails can be rocky and sometimes wet or muddy. Good hiking boots are recommended for comfort and safety.
🗺️ Follow Trail Markers
The trails are clearly marked, making them easy to navigate. Stick to the paths for the best experience.
💧 Be Prepared for Wet Trails
After rain, some trails can turn into streams or be muddy. Check conditions if you're visiting after significant rainfall.
⚠️ Watch Your Step
Near overlooks, be cautious of gaps between rocks, especially with children or pets.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails can be rocky and sometimes wet or muddy. Good hiking boots are recommended for comfort and safety.
🗺️ Follow Trail Markers
The trails are clearly marked, making them easy to navigate. Stick to the paths for the best experience.
💧 Be Prepared for Wet Trails
After rain, some trails can turn into streams or be muddy. Check conditions if you're visiting after significant rainfall.
⚠️ Watch Your Step
Near overlooks, be cautious of gaps between rocks, especially with children or pets.
🚗 Limited Parking
The parking lot is small. Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Bear Creek Preserve is praised for its beautiful, well-marked trails and natural scenery, offering a peaceful escape. Visitors enjoy the variety of hiking options and the picturesque Buttermilk Falls. However, the limited parking and lack of restrooms at the main lot are noted drawbacks.
"Pretty lil park with hiking trails. Smaller parking lot for approx 10-12 cars. No bathroom at the parking lot. Port-a-potty way up the hill past the yellow gate at the office/maintenance building along the trails. We took the trail behind the building and went to the left to the overlook. 2nd weekend in Oct 2025 the overlook was mostly overgrown with not much of a view. Although the rock outcrops are neat."
Frugal Livin'
"The trails are all very clearly marked & easy to follow. There’s a good selection of different trail lengths to choose from. Beautiful site to spend time exploring & appreciating nature."
Leslie Benedetti
"A great place to explore!
Trails were clearly marked. Went in late August 2021 after all the crazy storms. The suspension bridge was broken, but we were able to detour to other trails and still see the mini waterfalls.
Some trails were very wet (not muddy) as the trail turned into a stream (pix). Other parts of the trail were very muddy, but this was after record breaking rains so not sure how it would be after a normal rain. The red trail was under construction and not surprisingly, the muddiest in that section. Most of the red trail was relatively dry.
Although you hike up and down, there are not any steep inclines or declines so it is manageable. Saw a family reunion outing with about 8-10 kids on the green and yellow trail and they looked to be having fun. For me, the hardest, was the gravel road before the trail. Maybe, it was just being impatient to get to the "trail".
Near the overlook, be very careful with kids and pets on the flat rocks. There are two large rocks that can be dangerous as they have a gap between them. It looks like it would only be a few feet, but I'd actual deep. Last photo attached. With that being said, if you keep an eye out, it is very safe and nothing to be so alarmed that you don't take advantage of the beautiful view. It is easily seen if you watch where you go and not on the flow of the path.
Took the red, yellow and green trails. Approximately 7 miles and totally worth it. Gorgeous!"
Susie sunshine13
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bear Creek Preserve is located in Luzerne County, PA. Access is often from White Haven Road, where you can find parking for the trails.
While the preserve itself is a natural area, the entrance and parking can be found off main roads. Keep an eye out for signage, especially if you're looking for specific trailheads like Buttermilk Falls.
The trails are well-marked, making them easy to follow. Using a trail map or a navigation app can be helpful, but the clear markings generally suffice for most visitors.
Information on public transportation to Bear Creek Preserve is limited. It's generally recommended to travel by car due to its natural setting.
Buttermilk Falls is often described as being accessible from White Haven Road. Parking is typically on the side of the road for a quick stop and photo opportunity.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Bear Creek Preserve is a natural area managed by Natural Lands, and typically does not require an admission fee. It's a free public space for exploration.
As a nature preserve, Bear Creek is generally open during daylight hours. Specific hours may vary, but it's best to plan your visit during the day to enjoy the trails safely.
No, there is no entrance fee to access Bear Creek Preserve. It's a conservation area open to the public for enjoying nature.
Bear Creek Preserve is typically open year-round, including holidays. However, it's always a good idea to check for any unexpected closures or advisories before your visit.
Generally, no special permits are required for day-use visitors to Bear Creek Preserve. Enjoy the trails and natural beauty responsibly.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Visitors often enjoy the Red, Yellow, and Green trails, which can combine for a longer hike of approximately 7 miles. The Blue Trail offers a viewpoint, and Buttermilk Falls is a popular short stop.
Yes, dogs are generally allowed at Bear Creek Preserve, but they must be kept on a leash. Always be mindful of other visitors and clean up after your pet.
As a nature preserve, Bear Creek is home to various wildlife. Keep an eye out for birds, small mammals, and other forest inhabitants during your hike.
Yes, many trails are manageable for families. While some sections can be wet or rocky, there are easier paths like the Green and Yellow trails that children can enjoy.
Amenities are minimal. There's limited parking, and a port-a-potty is available near the maintenance building. No restrooms are at the main parking area.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Buttermilk Falls is a prime spot for waterfall photography. The overlooks, though sometimes overgrown, can offer scenic shots, and the diverse forest trails provide ample opportunities for nature photography. +1
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, creating softer shadows and enhancing the natural beauty of the preserve.
Look for the unique rock outcrops, the flowing water at Buttermilk Falls, and the changing colors of the foliage in autumn. The bilingual signage also offers a unique photo element.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive forest and falls, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A tripod can help with low-light conditions or capturing smooth water.
Drone usage policies can vary. It's best to check with Natural Lands or local regulations before flying a drone to ensure compliance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While amenities are basic, the opportunity to see Buttermilk Falls offers a quick and exciting stop for kids. The preserve's natural setting provides a refreshing escape, and the well-marked trails make it easier to keep track of little ones. Just remember to pack snacks and water, and be prepared for the limited parking.
🐶 Dog Owners
Be aware that some trails can be rocky and potentially muddy or wet, so ensure your dog is comfortable with such terrain. The variety of trail lengths means you can tailor your walk to your dog's energy levels. Remember to bring water for both you and your furry friend, and always clean up after your pet.
🚶♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers
Appreciate the natural beauty of the area, from the cascading Buttermilk Falls to the serene forest paths. Photographers will find plenty of subjects, from waterfalls to rock formations and the changing seasons.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails
Recent updates have included improvements like new bridges and boardwalks, though some areas might still be under construction or experience wet conditions after rain. Visitors have noted that trails can sometimes turn into streams or become muddy, so appropriate footwear is essential.
For a quicker visit, the trail to Buttermilk Falls is easily accessible and provides a beautiful waterfall view, often just a short walk from roadside parking.
+1 The preserve is also a great spot for those seeking a natural escape that feels secluded, yet is surprisingly close to urban areas. Wildlife and Nature Appreciation
The preserve is managed by Natural Lands, a non-profit organization dedicated to conserving open spaces. This stewardship ensures the protection of the area's ecological integrity, making it a valuable resource for both recreation and conservation education.
Visitors often praise the preserve for its beautiful scenery and the tranquil atmosphere it provides. It's a place where one can appreciate the quietude of the woods and the simple beauty of the natural landscape.
Accessibility and Amenities
There are no restrooms directly at the parking lot. A port-a-potty is situated further up the hill near the office or maintenance building, accessible via the trails. This means visitors should plan their needs accordingly before starting their hike.
Improvements are ongoing, with efforts to build boardwalks and finish trails to enhance accessibility. However, it's recommended to check for the latest updates, especially if you require specific accessibility features or are visiting areas that might be under construction.
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