Worlds End State Park
Worlds End State Park is a hidden gem tucked into an S-shaped valley carved by Loyalsock Creek in Pennsylvania’s rugged Endless Mountains. This 780-acre park punches far above its weight—offering dramatic gorge views, cascading waterfalls, and some of the most scenic hiking in the Northeast.
Stand at the Loyalsock Canyon Vista for breathtaking panoramas, explore the “Waterfall Wonderland” on foot, swim in mountain-cold Loyalsock Creek, and end your day in one of 19 rustic cabins. The park’s evocative name may have originated from a whirlpool that once churned in the creek—a reminder of the wild forces that shaped this landscape.
Surrounded by the vast Loyalsock State Forest, Worlds End is a gateway to endless adventure.
Park Fast Facts
| 📍 Location | Sullivan County, Pennsylvania |
| 🗺️ Region | Endless Mountains |
| 📐 Total Area | 780 acres |
| 🌲 Adjacent Forest | Loyalsock State Forest |
| 🥾 Trail Miles | 20+ miles in park |
| 📞 Phone | (570) 924-3287 |
Loyalsock Canyon Vista
The Loyalsock Canyon Vista is the crown jewel of Worlds End—a car-accessible overlook with panoramic views of the gorge and creek below.
- 🚗 Drive-up access for all abilities
- 👀 Gorge views of Loyalsock Creek
- 🧗 Rock Garden nearby for exploration
- 🌅 Photo-worthy at sunrise/sunset
Also visit High Knob Vista and Worlds End Vista for more stunning perspectives!
Hiking Trails
| Trail | Miles | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 🥾 Loyalsock Trail | 59.3 | Epic PA trail through park! |
| 🥾 Canyon Vista Trail | 4 | Loop to overlook + rock garden |
| 🥾 Worlds End Trail | 3.25 | To Worlds End Vista |
| 🥾 Link Trail | 7 | Ascends to Canyon Vista |
| 🥾 Butternut Trail | 2.5 | Moderate woodland hike |
| 🌿 Double Run Nature Trail | 1.2 | Easy—waterfalls & wildflowers! |
| 🥾 High Rock Trail | 1 | Steep—waterfall + vista |
Waterfalls
The region earns its nickname as “Waterfall Wonderland”:
| Waterfall | Location | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 💦 Cottonwood Falls | Double Run Trail | ~13 ft, easy access |
| 💦 Upper Cottonwood | Double Run Trail | Above main falls |
| 💦 High Rock Run Falls | High Rock Trail | Trailside cascade |
| 💦 Angel Falls | Loyalsock State Forest | Tallest in area! |
| 💦 Ketchum Run Falls | Nearby | Worth the detour |
Swimming
Cool off in the Loyalsock Creek at the designated swimming area—mountain-cold and refreshing!
Cabins & Camping
| Option | Quantity | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 🏠 Rustic Cabins | 19 | Year-round, sleeps up to 6 |
| ⛺ Campsites | 70 | Half with electric hookups |
| 👥 Group Camping | Yes | Tenting area available |
Cabin Amenities
- 🍳 Refrigerator & range
- 🔥 Fireplace insert
- 🛏️ Beds, table, chairs
- 📋 Bring your own linens!
- 📅 Summer: Weekly rentals
- 📅 Off-season: 2-night minimum
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it called Worlds End?
The evocative name may have originated from a whirlpool that once existed in Loyalsock Creek—a churning vortex that seemed like the “end of the world.” The park sits in a dramatic S-shaped valley carved by the creek, adding to the otherworldly atmosphere.
Can I drive to Loyalsock Canyon Vista?
Yes! Loyalsock Canyon Vista is car-accessible, making it one of PA’s most accessible scenic overlooks. The panoramic views of the gorge and creek are stunning for visitors of all abilities.
Are the cabins open year-round?
Yes! All 19 rustic cabins are open year-round. In summer, they rent by the week; in the off-season, a 2-night minimum applies. Cabins include refrigerator, range, fireplace insert, and beds—bring your own linens!
What waterfalls can I see at Worlds End?
The region is nicknamed “Waterfall Wonderland!” Within the park, see Cottonwood Falls (~13 ft) on the easy Double Run Nature Trail, plus the waterfall on High Rock Run. Nearby in Loyalsock State Forest, find Angel Falls (the tallest), Alpine Falls, and Dutchman Falls.
Can I swim at Worlds End State Park?
Yes! The park has a designated swimming area in Loyalsock Creek. The water is mountain-cold and refreshing—perfect for hot summer days!
What is the Loyalsock Trail?
The Loyalsock Trail (LT) is a challenging 59.3-mile trail that passes through Worlds End and the surrounding Loyalsock State Forest. It features numerous vistas and waterfalls—an epic Pennsylvania hiking adventure!
🏔️ Discover Pennsylvania’s Hidden Gem
Dramatic gorge views, cascading waterfalls, year-round cabins, and miles of trails—Worlds End State Park delivers adventure where the Endless Mountains meet the sky!
Explore More Pennsylvania State Parks
Worlds End State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Pennsylvania. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Pennsylvania guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
