
Hemlocks to Hellbenders
Hemlocks to Hellbenders is an award-winnning podcast hosted by Christian Alexandersen highlighting Pennsylvania’s parks, forests and great outdoors.
Our episodes feature engaging conversations with park managers, forest rangers, scientists, educators, outdoor recreationalists, volunteers, officials and more that help you plan your next adventure in the Commonwealth's incredible parks and forests.
Hemlocks to Hellbenders
Chasing Pennsylvania waterfalls with Uncovering PA's Jim Cheney
When it comes to rewarding outdoor experiences, there are few things that can compete with seeing a waterfall. There’s just so much to enjoy. The mesmerizing sight of water cascading over rocks, the soothing sound of its rhythmic splash and the refreshing touch of mist in the air.
No matter if the waterfall is five stories or five feet, they’re a wonderful sight in nature.
And luckily, Pennsylvania has a lot of beautiful waterfalls. We’ve got all sorts here. We got big ones, small ones, ones that can be found all year long, ones that only be seen after a big rain. Ones that roar like freight trains and ones that tinkle like wind chimes.
We have waterfalls all over the Commonwealth. From Cucumber Falls in Fayette County to Ganoga Falls in Luzerne County. You can see waterfalls easily from your car or hike miles into the forest to explore them away from the crowds. We have something for everyone. And while TLC famously told us not to go chasing waterfalls, I implore you to.
But having so many options can be dauting for some. Where do I start? Where should I visit first? When is the best season to see them?
I don’t know. So I decided to find someone who did. And we could not have gotten a better guest for an episode on our majestic waterfalls than this episode’s expert.
On this episode, I speak with Jim Cheney. Jim is the creator of Uncovering PA and the author of “Waterfalls of Pennsylvania.”
Be sure to support our 2025 sponsors:
Keystone Trails Association
Purple Lizard Maps
Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation
Sisters' Sunflowers
Visit our website to learn more about the podcast, to purchase merch and to find out about our incredible sponsors. Follow us on Instagram and Meta to stay connected.
Hosting, production and editing: Christian Alexandersen
Music: Jon Sauer
Graphics: Matt Davis