Blue Hen Falls
A beautiful cascade and refreshing pool await on this scenic 3-mile hike, perfect for a nature escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Blue Hen Falls
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beautiful cascade and refreshing pool await on this scenic 3-mile hike, perfect for a nature escape.
"The hike makes it feel worth while, so scenic and peaceful."
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The trail can be steep and rocky, especially near the falls. Good hiking shoes are a must for grip and stability.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
The 3-mile hike involves hills and can be challenging. Staying hydrated is crucial, especially on warmer days.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Blue Hen Falls
Base of the trail
A beautiful, year-round waterfall cascading into a shallow pool, perfect for a refreshing dip.
Scenic Woodland Trail
The entire hike
Enjoy a shaded, peaceful 3-mile round trip hike through beautiful parkland.
Waterfall Pool Swim
At the falls
Take a dip in the cool, clear water at the base of the falls – just watch out for slippery rocks!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Difficulty & Preparation
Parking & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
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👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The trail can be steep and rocky, especially near the falls. Good hiking shoes are a must for grip and stability.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
The 3-mile hike involves hills and can be challenging. Staying hydrated is crucial, especially on warmer days.
🚗 Park at Visitor Center
Roadside parking is often unavailable. Park at the Boston Mills Visitor Center for a reliable spot.
🏊♀️ Water Shoes Recommended
The rocks around the waterfall pool are very slippery. Water shoes or sandals will provide better traction.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The trail can be steep and rocky, especially near the falls. Good hiking shoes are a must for grip and stability.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
The 3-mile hike involves hills and can be challenging. Staying hydrated is crucial, especially on warmer days.
🚗 Park at Visitor Center
Roadside parking is often unavailable. Park at the Boston Mills Visitor Center for a reliable spot.
🏊♀️ Water Shoes Recommended
The rocks around the waterfall pool are very slippery. Water shoes or sandals will provide better traction.
🧺 Picnic Potential
The scenic beauty makes it an ideal spot for a picnic lunch before or after your hike.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Blue Hen Falls for its beautiful, scenic trail and the refreshing opportunity to swim in the waterfall pool. The moderate hike is considered rewarding, though reviewers consistently warn about the steepness and slippery rocks, especially near the water. Parking can be a challenge, with many recommending the visitor center as a starting point.
"Absolutely amazing experience. We spoke to the park ranger beforehand and they give us the heads up that This is the most challenging trail due to the altitude climb. Was also advised to make sure we bring water with us. Definitely recommended. Don't get me wrong, it is only 3 mile round trip, so it's not THAT bad. We took our 7 year old with us and she managed to make it the whole way.
Getting down to the falls is a little steep. Not bad at all, but watch your step. Some people feel more comfortable taking the rock route to the right and some people feel more comfortable taking the tree root route (left)- I would recommend taking the tree root section. Much easier with little ones.
When you are walking along the trail, Once you get to the waterfall area you will notice that the blue hen trailhead sign says trail ends. Some people kept walking. But once the wooden rails end right next to where the bench ends, That is the ideal area to enter to get to the part of the waterfall you can swim In. Not super deep, definitely no diving or anything like that.
Everyone we ran into here was super nice. It might not be a bad idea for children to bring swimming shoes or sandals to wear in the water. Simply because the rocks get very slippery
Our daughter is good in the water and she knows how to swim, However, the rocks are so slippery in some areas that she slipped a little bit and if she didn't know how to swim, she could have easily went under. Thankfully, she's tall enough to just stand up LOL - but a lot of children are not. ( the area right in front of the waterfall in the water Itself is a little slippery, and the rocks are weirdly shaped, so it is easy to misstep). Definitely coming back here!!
Also feel like this would be a great trail to bring a picnic with you. So beautiful here! When we went, you are unable to park on the side of the road.You have to park in the parking lot near the visitor center and walk from there."
New Future Now
"Very good hike, challenging because of the ups and downs. The day we visited the waterfall was a trickle. But that did not keep a group of girls from splashing in the water pool. Bring water to drink. Enjoy the hike. Rest in the shade and relaxing sounds of the falls."
Todd Gardner
"Great hike. Not as large as other falls nearby, but the hike makes it feel worth while. Park at the visitor center, 3 mile round trip from there. Moderate difficult. So scenic and peaceful."
Peter Martin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The main trailhead is often accessed via the Boston Mills Visitor Center. While there might be closer parking spots, they are not always available. The hike from the visitor center is approximately 3 miles round trip.
The most common route involves parking at the Boston Mills Visitor Center and following the marked trails. Some reviews mention a more direct trail, but access and parking can be inconsistent.
Yes, the trail is dog-friendly, but ensure your furry friend is comfortable with moderate hiking and can handle the terrain. Always keep them leashed.
Some visitors opt to walk the road for an easier approach, especially if they are looking for a less strenuous experience than the main trail.
Using a Blue Hen Falls trail map is recommended, especially if you are unfamiliar with the area. The trail from the visitor center is generally well-marked.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Blue Hen Falls is located within a metro park system, which typically offers free admission. However, it's always a good idea to check the official park website for any potential changes or special event fees.
As part of a park system, Blue Hen Falls is generally accessible during daylight hours. Specific park hours can vary, so consult the official park website for the most accurate information.
No, typically no advance booking or tickets are required for Blue Hen Falls as it's a natural attraction within a public park.
Yes, there is a Blue Hen Falls trailhead sign, but some visitors note it indicates the 'trail ends' near the waterfall area, which can be confusing. The ideal entry to the swimming area is just past the wooden rails.
Visiting on weekday mornings or late afternoons can help you avoid the peak crowds often seen on weekends and during midday.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike is considered moderately challenging due to its 3-mile round trip distance, hills, and steep sections, particularly the descent to the falls. It's manageable for beginners with some fitness.
Yes, you can swim in the pool at the base of the falls. The water is not very deep, so diving is not recommended. Be cautious of slippery rocks.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip. Consider bringing water shoes or sandals for swimming due to slippery rocks. Layers are also advisable depending on the season.
Yes, a majority of the Blue Hen Falls trail is shaded, offering a pleasant experience even on warmer days.
For getting down to the falls, many find the 'tree root route' on the left to be easier than the rock route on the right, especially if you have children with you.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the cascading water from various angles, the serene pool at its base, and the lush greenery surrounding the trail. The area just past the wooden rails offers a great perspective for the swimming spot.
Yes, Blue Hen Falls offers beautiful natural scenery, making it a great spot for photography, especially when the falls are running strong after rain.
Early morning or late afternoon can provide softer light and fewer people, enhancing your photographic opportunities. The shaded trail also helps manage harsh sunlight.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national and state parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. Always check the specific park's regulations before flying a drone.
To capture the silky effect of moving water, use a slower shutter speed. A tripod is highly recommended for stability. Consider using a polarizing filter to reduce glare on the water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Bring plenty of water and snacks, and consider a picnic to enjoy amidst the scenery. For the waterfall pool, water shoes are highly recommended due to slippery rocks. While the water isn't deep, supervision is crucial. The shaded trail is a plus for keeping kids comfortable.
🚶♀️ Beginner Hikers
Sturdy hiking shoes are essential for navigating the terrain. Bringing ample water is also a must. While the falls themselves might be considered 'underwhelming' by some compared to larger cascades, the overall experience of the scenic trail and the opportunity for a refreshing dip make it a great beginner-friendly destination.
📸 Nature Photographers
Consider bringing a tripod to achieve silky smooth water effects with a slower shutter speed. The surrounding woodland also offers opportunities for capturing flora and fauna. Remember to be mindful of the slippery rocks if you're getting close to the water's edge for that perfect shot.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Blue Hen Falls Trail
While the trail is largely shaded, which is a welcome relief on warmer days, the terrain can be uneven and slippery, particularly after rain or near the water. Wearing appropriate footwear is paramount. The park rangers themselves advise bringing water, underscoring the exertion required. Despite the challenges, the scenic beauty and the reward of reaching the falls make the Blue Hen Falls hike a worthwhile endeavor for many visitors.
For those looking for a less strenuous experience, some visitors mention the option of walking along the road to reach the falls area, though this bypasses the more immersive woodland trail experience. Always consult a Blue Hen Falls trail map for the most accurate navigation, especially if you plan to explore beyond the main path.
Experiencing the Waterfall and Pool
It's important to note that the water depth varies, and while it's generally shallow enough to stand in, missteps can occur. Parents with young children should be particularly vigilant. The area right in front of the waterfall can be especially slick. Despite these warnings, the chance to cool off in the natural pool is a highlight for many, adding an element of adventure to the visit.
When you reach the waterfall area, you might see a sign indicating the 'trail ends.' According to visitor experiences, the ideal entry point to the swimming part of the waterfall is just beyond the wooden rails and bench. This is where you can access the pool for a refreshing swim.
Parking and Access at Blue Hen Falls
From the visitor center, the hike to Blue Hen Falls is approximately 3 miles round trip. While this adds a bit to the overall distance, it ensures a secure place to leave your vehicle and allows you to enjoy the full Blue Hen Falls trail experience. This strategy is frequently recommended by those who have visited, ensuring a smoother start to your adventure.
It's advisable to check the latest park information regarding parking regulations before your visit. Having a Blue Hen Falls map can also help you orient yourself and plan your route from the visitor center to the falls.
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