Round Island Run Falls in Sproul State Forest

Round Island Falls in Sproul State Park is a place that I’ve wanted to be able to go to for a long time. This waterfall is nestled deep in Sproul State Forest. There are forest roads to drive, however it’s not far from civilization as one might think, nonetheless Round Island is a very secluded place, despite the easy hike. Running into a local (as always for me) she mentioned that it was more secluded before all the signage. Which isn’t a lot to begin with, just a small sign at the trail head.

The trail is about a one mile hike down, with not much elevation change. It was quite nice to hike next to a little stream that feeds the falls though is not Round Island Run. The trail on the other side was surrounded with hemlocks, and rhododendrons. The falls can be heard as you approach and the little side trail down to the falls has a rope to assist with getting down (and up). Thankfully, because it was steep. Once down the falls were in all their glory. There is a huge fire pit there and the falls are draped in rhododendrons. The greens popped next to the falls, which were flowing very well for August.

There are numerous vantage points to photograph Round Island Run Falls from and I explored as much of the area as possible. Downstream are some fantastic little cascades that can be explored. Most are draped by the same beautiful green rhododendrons.

This place was magical and I enjoyed every minute of being here. It was totally worth the drive and planning to find. This spot is unexplainable, almost like going back in time. I’m surely coming back as soon as I can.