DEVILS WELL

About Devils Well

Tucked into the forested hills of the Pocono Mountains near the charming town of Hawley, Pennsylvania, Devils Well is one of those rare swimming holes that rewards the effort it takes to reach it. Set along the naturally clear waters of Wallenpaupack Creek, this unofficial gem draws adventure-seekers, swimmers, and photographers who are willing to leave the pavement behind for something genuinely wild and beautiful.

The Setting and Landscape

Getting to Devils Well is half the experience. You'll follow a roughly 20-minute hike along uneven trails that wind through mixed woodland, with elevation changes that keep you honest and scenery that keeps you motivated. The forest canopy shifts above you as you descend toward the creek, and you'll hear the water before you see it — a low, persistent rush that grows louder with every step. When the trees finally open up, you're greeted by a dramatic natural pool carved into the creek bed, framed by rock outcroppings and hemmed in by dense Pocono greenery. The biodiversity here is striking: ferns cling to mossy ledges, birds move through the canopy overhead, and the whole scene carries that hushed, alive quality that only deeply forested places have.

Swimming and the Water

The waters of Wallenpaupack Creek run cool and notably clear, giving the pool at Devils Well its signature visual depth. On a hot summer afternoon, slipping into that creek is an immediate, full-body reset — cold enough to shock, refreshing enough to make you stay. The star attraction for thrill-seekers is the cliff jumping. Rock outcroppings above the pool offer the kind of launching points that inspire both hesitation and exhilaration, dropping you into deep water below. Whether you're a jumper or a swimmer who prefers a gentler entry, the creek accommodates both. There are no lifeguards or safety staff on site, so visitors should exercise sound judgment, assess water depth carefully before any jump, and never swim alone. This is a place that asks for your attention and respect.

Practical Visit Information

Devils Well is an unofficial swimming site, which means you'll find no formal facilities here — no restrooms, no changing areas, no concession stands. Pack in everything you need and pack out everything you bring. There is no fee to visit, and camping is not available at the site itself. The summer months from June through August offer the warmest swimming conditions and the highest water levels for jumping. If you prefer a quieter experience with spectacular color and cooler air, spring and early autumn are equally rewarding, even if the water is brisk. Wear sturdy footwear for the hike in, and consider bringing a dry bag for your phone and valuables.

Plan Your Visit

Devils Well sits just a short distance from Hawley, Pennsylvania — a walkable small town with a genuine character all its own, known for its restaurants, local shops, and proximity to Lake Wallenpaupack. Hawley makes an ideal base for the day, offering places to eat and recover after your adventure. The broader Pocono Mountains region is packed with natural attractions, making Devils Well an easy centerpiece for a longer weekend itinerary in one of Pennsylvania's most scenic corners.