The United States is home to some of the most awe-inspiring waterfalls in the world, from the thunderous might of Niagara Falls to the serene flows of Yosemite. Let’s explore the must-see wild beauty of American waterfalls worth planning a trip to see.
Niagara Falls, New York
Niagara Falls is perhaps America’s most famous waterfall, straddling the border between the United States and Canada. Visitors can experience these massive falls up close on the Maid of the Mist boat tour, which brings them right into the misty spray. Whether illuminated at night or frozen in winter, Niagara Falls is a breathtaking sight in any season.
Yosemite Falls, California
Yosemite Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in North America. It cascades down a cliff in three distinct sections, with a total drop of 2,425 feet. Hiking trails in the surrounding valley offer spectacular views and a chance to see the falls from different angles.
Multnomah Falls, Oregon
Multnomah Falls is a stunning, 620-foot-tall roaring cascade located in the Columbia River Gorge. This waterfall features a bridge that allows visitors to cross between the lower and upper falls for an excellent view. The surrounding area is filled with additional trails and scenic stops, making it a perfect day trip.
Havasu Falls, Arizona
Located in the Grand Canyon, Havasu Falls is famous for its vivid blue-green water contrasted against red canyon walls. This remote waterfall requires a 10-mile hike each way, so a visit here is truly an adventure. Camping overnight is a popular option, allowing more time to explore the nearby falls and pools.
Ruby Falls, Tennessee
Hidden deep within Lookout Mountain, Ruby Falls is a 145-foot underground waterfall. It is part of a fascinating cave system that offers guided tours ending with the illuminated falls. This unique site combines the beauty of a waterfall with the mystique of subterranean exploration.
Lower Falls, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Lower Falls drops 308 feet into the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. Viewing points like Artist Point provide dramatic views of the falls framed by multi-colored rock walls. The area’s natural beauty is complemented by the abundant wildlife and geothermal features nearby.
Palouse Falls, Washington
Palouse Falls lies on the Palouse River and plunges 198 feet into a striking canyon. The state park surrounding the falls offers viewing platforms, picnicking areas, and hiking trails. Its dramatic appearance changes with the seasons, offering stunning photography opportunities.
Sliding Rock, North Carolina
Sliding Rock isn’t just a waterfall; it’s a natural waterslide. Located in Pisgah National Forest, this 60-foot-long flat rock ends in a 7-foot drop into a cold, deep pool. It’s a popular cooling-off spot in the summer, with visitors lining up to slide down the smooth rock.
Gorman Falls, Texas
A lush, 65-foot-tall waterfall within Colorado Bend State Park, Gorman Falls is covered in moss and ferns, giving it a magical appearance. The hike to the falls is rugged, but the verdant oasis waiting at the end is worth every step.
Akaka Falls, Hawaii
Akaka Falls State Park on the Big Island of Hawaii is home to the towering Akaka Falls, which drops 442 feet into a gorge. The loop trail leading to the waterfall is lush with tropical vegetation, making the journey as enjoyable as the destination.
Bridalveil Fall, California
One of Yosemite National Park’s iconic features, Bridalveil Fall, flows 620 feet into Yosemite Valley. Its mist creates almost constant rainbows on sunny afternoons, adding to its allure. Easily accessible, it provides a spectacular introduction to the park’s wonders right from the entrance.
Shoshone Falls, Idaho
Shoshone Falls stands 212 feet high—45 feet higher than Niagara Falls—and flows over a rim nearly 1,000 feet wide. Located on the Snake River, it’s most impressive in the spring when water levels are highest. Viewing platforms offer easy access to see the falls in their full glory.
Snoqualmie Falls, Washington
Just 30 miles from Seattle, Snoqualmie Falls drops 268 feet over granite cliffs into a 65-foot deep pool below. This powerful waterfall is surrounded by a two-acre park with an observation deck, a gift shop, and the Salish Lodge. It is also culturally significant to the local Snoqualmie Tribe, regarded as a site of spiritual power.
Cumberland Falls, Kentucky
Cumberland Falls features a wide curtain of water that falls 68 feet into a boulder-strewn gorge. The waterfall is famous for its moonbow, a rare lunar rainbow visible on clear, moonlit nights. Its surrounding park offers extensive hiking trails and cozy lodging options.
Tahquamenon Falls, Michigan
Located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, Tahquamenon Falls is one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi, with a drop of nearly 50 feet and a width of up to 200 feet. The surrounding Tahquamenon Falls State Park is a popular spot for hiking and canoeing. In winter, the falls transform into a frozen spectacle.
McWay Falls, California
McWay Falls in Big Sur is a rare “tidefall,” a waterfall that cascades directly into the ocean. This 80-foot waterfall is visible year-round from a roadside overlook, making it easily accessible for all visitors. The surrounding area offers trails and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
Linville Falls, North Carolina
Linville Falls in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina plunges into Linville Gorge. The area offers several viewpoints and trails that range from moderate to strenuous. Its dramatic double cascade draws photographers and hikers alike.
Ricketts Glen Falls, Pennsylvania
Ricketts Glen State Park hosts a series of stunning waterfalls along a 7.2-mile loop trail, with the 94-foot Ganoga Falls being the tallest. The trail, known as the Falls Trail, allows visitors to see as many as 21 waterfalls in a single hike. The park’s lush old-growth forests and cascading waters make it a top spot for nature lovers.
Silver Falls, Oregon
Silver Falls State Park offers a trail where visitors can walk behind a curtain of water. The Trail of Ten Falls loops through a densely forested landscape, passing several majestic waterfalls along the way.
Fallingwater Cascades, Virginia
Fallingwater Cascades, located along the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia, features a picturesque series of cascades accessed via a moderate loop trail. The trail provides numerous vantage points to enjoy the tranquil sound and sight of flowing water.
Anna Ruby Falls, Georgia
Anna Ruby Falls is a rare double waterfall formed by two separate streams. The falls can be accessed via a half-mile paved trail that is both scenic and accessible. The site offers picnic areas and educational exhibits on the local ecosystem and geology.
Bear Creek Falls, Colorado
Bear Creek Falls offers hikers a rewarding view after a moderately challenging hike. The trail to the falls takes you through alpine forests and meadows, ending with the spectacular sight of the falls plunging into a clear pool below. It’s a favorite spot for both locals and tourists seeking a picturesque hike.
Rainbow Falls, New York
Rainbow Falls in Watkins Glen State Park is part of a series of waterfalls that are accessible through an enchanting stone stairway surrounded by lush greenery. The name comes from the frequent rainbows that appear in the midst of the falls on sunny days.
