Bork’s Falls

Bork’s Falls is located on the back side of Ferne ClyffeState Park. This is one of my favorite parts of the park and is usually pretty desolate. The road to the parking area actually drives over the top of the falls which is pretty neat. A short hike down the bluff leads to a very breathtaking area that is definitely worth the side trip if you’re in the area.

Link to DNR website for Ferne Clyffe
Link to the Map Page

Bork’s Waterfall

  • Length: 1/4 mile or less if you take the direct way down. About 1.5 miles roundtrip if you take the full trail.
  • Difficulty: 3.5 out of 5. The shortcut trail is steep and can be slick in areas. The main trail is easier but longer.
  • Scenic Value: 5 out of 5. Bork’s Falls has a larger drainage area so it flows more consistently. It is a beautiful spot.
  • Things to know: No restrooms. Getting to the trailhead is tricky and there is only room for 2-3 cars here. It’s much less busy than the other waterfalls in the main part of the park.

Bork’s Waterfall is located about a mile down the gravel surface of Regent Lane off of Goreville Road. No signs lead the way and phone signal may be spotty so best to have a map. You will know the spot when you get to it as there is a rough section of exposed rock to drive across. You want some water to be flowing here to have a waterfall but not to much in order to drive across safely. Do not attempt to cross if the water is high. It’s best in a higher clearance vehicle but we have done it several times in a sedan or minivan.

After crossing over the falls, there is a small parking area immediately on your left. Look to your left towards the waterfall and you should see a path that cuts down directly to the waterfall. It can be a little muddy and slick but our kids have done it without an issue and this is the route we usually take. You can also instead follow the wider official trail down the old road along the bluff until it comes to a gas pipeline. Turn left and follow the pipeline for a few hundred feet. Right before the creek you’ll see an unmarked trail on your left. Follow the trail back to the waterfall. This route is easier but longer.

Either way you take, Bork’s Falls is worth the extra work it takes to get here. The falls split into two streams as they plunge into a turquoise blue pool.

Sometimes the water level is high enough for the two falls to become almost one.

Fall is a beautiful time to visit as well with the contrast of the water against the yellow and orange leaves.