Dunnfield Falls is a moderately large waterfall along Dunnfield Creek at the base of Mount Tammany. The waterfall is located in the scenic Dunnfield Creek Natural Area.

Dunnfield Falls is a fairly wide waterfall featuring two main cascades side by side, separated by about 10 feet of exposed rock. The left cascade is the larger of the two. During times of low water, the right cascade sometimes dries completely.

Viewing the waterfall can be somewhat challenging due to multiple blowdowns. These blowdowns have been here for years and are unlikely to go anywhere. Dunnfield Creek is a natural trout stream and a designated natural area, so the state park service avoids unnecessary cosmetic maintenance, such as removing trees over the water. Fortunately, there are many ways to get close to the falls on either side of the creek.

Directions

The most direct way to reach the waterfall is to take the Appalachian Trail from the Dunnfield Creek Parking Area off Route 80. After about 0.4 miles you reach the start of the Green Dunnfield Creek Trail and the Appalachian Trail leaves to the left. Continue on the Dunnfield Creek Trail for about 0.1 miles until you reach Dunnfield Falls.

Dunnfield Falls is also a popular destination for those visiting Mount Tammany. The general recommendation for hiking Mount Tammany (and one that we agree with) is to hike up the Red Mount Tammany Trail and down the Blue Pahaquarry Trail. The Pahaquarry Trail reaches the Dunnfield Creek Trail just before the waterfall, offering a nice conclusion to the hike.

Parking

Parking can be a challenge due to the immense popularity of the park.

The recommended parking area is the circular Dunnfield Creek parking area. This is actually the second parking area accessed from the park exit on Route 80 West. This lot offers easier access to the falls than the first one and is slightly larger, accommodating about 30 cars.

If this lot is full, exit the parking area and get on 80 West. Get off at the next exit (Exit 1), then turn left, passing below Route 80. Do not take the on-ramp back onto the highway; instead, follow the road until you reach a few additional parking areas on the right for the Kittatinny Point Visitor Center and boat launch. From here, follow the White Appalachian Trail under Route 80, back to the previously mentioned circular parking area. This lot should be used only as a last resort, as these lots can add up to a mile between the hike to and from the main trail.

If you visit on a summer weekend, try to arrive around 8:00 a.m.; any later and you risk having to park across the highway. Even on summer weekdays, the parking areas can fill up.

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