The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is an enormous area of trails, streams, mountain ridgelines, and hidden treasures. One such treasure, Silver Spray Falls, is tucked away in the forest, with no clear trail. In fact, it’s so hard to find that locals have nicknamed it “Hidden Falls”. You may be surprised to realize that Silver Spray Falls is located close to Buttermilk Falls, one of New Jersey’s most-visited and most accessible waterfalls. Unlike Buttermilk, though, you won’t find a large crowd here any time of year.
Silver Spray Falls may be the most beautiful cascade in New Jersey - but it’s difficult to get to and not many hikers have made the arduous trek.
Google Local / Violet Karyn
The easiest way to find the trailhead - or lack of one, truly - is by parking at Buttermilk Falls and walking up Mountain Road.
Googe Local / Alan Semon There’s a small pull-off on the shoulder of the road about half a mile from the main lot, and that’s where you’ll find the pathway to Silver Spray Falls. Look for a small stone wall, and be sure to keep track of where you’re walking so you don’t get lost.
The short but unmarked trail can be hard to find and harder to follow. Your best bet is to listen for the sound of water - and follow Flat Creek!
Flickr / Nicholas A. Tonelli
The hemlock grove that surrounds the creek is often overgrown, and there are no marked trails to show you where to go.
Flickr / Nicholas A. Tonelli
You’ll have to cross Flat Creek at some point - be sure to evaluate the best spot for a crossing carefully. In the early springtime, it can be too high and fast to safely cross.
Flickr / Nicholas A. Tonelli
Several smaller waterfalls will accompany you on your journey to the towering and beautiful Silver Spray Falls.
Flickr / Nicholas A. Tonelli
The best time to visit is on a warm winter day, or late spring through fall. If you do visit in winter, you’ll enjoy the treat of a partially frozen waterfall, and you’ll likely have the forest to yourself.
Flickr / Nicholas A. Tonelli
Have you found these Hidden Falls?
Flickr / Nicholas A. Tonelli
There’s no trail map to share for this one – your trailblazing and scouting skills will be put to the test! The Delaware Water Gap website will keep you up to date on road closures and local conditions, though, so be sure to check it before you head out.
Google Local / Violet Karyn
Googe Local / Alan Semon
There’s a small pull-off on the shoulder of the road about half a mile from the main lot, and that’s where you’ll find the pathway to Silver Spray Falls. Look for a small stone wall, and be sure to keep track of where you’re walking so you don’t get lost.
Flickr / Nicholas A. Tonelli
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Address: Silver Spray Falls, Layton, NJ 07851, USA
