Waterfall chasing is one of the most rewarding ways to explore America’s great outdoors. Whether you’re planning a cross-country road trip, a summer vacation, or a weekend escape, few sights are as unforgettable as standing before a powerful cascade surrounded by nature.
From towering waterfalls in national parks to hidden gems tucked into forests and canyons, the United States is home to some of the most spectacular waterfalls in the world. For travelers who love scenic hikes, outdoor adventure, and epic photo ops, these destinations belong at the top of your bucket list.
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Here are 22 of the most beautiful waterfalls in the USA – incredible stops that prove some of America’s best wonders can’t be found in cities, only in the wild.
1. Waimoku Falls – Maui, Hawaii
Located in Haleakalā National Park on the island of Maui, Waimoku Falls plunges an incredible 400 feet down a lush volcanic cliff. The waterfall is reached by hiking just under two miles along the Pipiwai Trail through bamboo forests and tropical rainforest. For safety reasons, visitors should admire the falls from a distance.
2. Nugget Falls – Juneau, Alaska
Near the famous Mendenhall Glacier, Nugget Falls is a stunning double-tiered waterfall surrounded by pristine Alaskan wilderness. An easy, well-maintained trail leads to a viewpoint near the base of the falls, making this one of the most accessible and scenic waterfall hikes in Alaska.
3. Palouse Falls – Washington
Palouse Falls is Washington State’s official waterfall and one of the last remaining Ice Age flood waterfalls in the country. Dropping nearly 200 feet into a dramatic canyon, this powerful cascade is one of Eastern Washington’s most iconic natural landmarks.
4. Snoqualmie Falls – Washington
Located just outside the town of Snoqualmie, Snoqualmie Falls is one of the most famous waterfalls in the Pacific Northwest. A short, paved trail leads to an observation deck overlooking the 268-foot cascade, making it one of the easiest major waterfalls in the country to visit.
Pro Tip: If you’re looking for a place to stay for the night, Salish Lodge provides fantastic views of the falls and has a great restaurant.
5. Colonial Creek Falls – Washington
Hidden deep inside North Cascades National Park, Colonial Creek Falls is the tallest waterfall in Washington and one of the largest in the United States. With multiple drops totaling over 2,500 feet, this massive waterfall is best viewed by experienced hikers prepared for rugged backcountry terrain.
6. Multnomah Falls – Oregon
Multnomah Falls is Oregon’s most famous waterfall and a must-see in the Columbia River Gorge. The 620-foot, two-tiered waterfall is easily accessible from the parking area, with a paved trail leading to Benson Bridge for a close-up view.
7. Willamette Valley Waterfalls – Oregon
Beyond its wineries, the Willamette Valley is home to beautiful waterfalls including Alsea Falls, Green Peak Falls, Sahalie Falls, and Koosah Falls. These scenic cascades are reached by moderate hikes and are perfect for travelers seeking peaceful forest settings.
Pro Tip: You can see many of these in a day if you plan ahead and map your route.
8. Yosemite Falls – Yosemite National Park, California
Yosemite Falls is the tallest waterfall in North America at nearly 2,500 feet. Located in Yosemite National Park, the three-tiered waterfall can be viewed from multiple points throughout Yosemite Valley. There is also a short loop trail around the lower falls.
9. Alamere Falls – California
Alamere Falls is one of the rare waterfalls in the world that cascades directly onto a beach. Reached by an 8.5-mile hike through coastal wilderness, this hidden gem is a favorite among adventurous hikers willing to earn the view.
10. Shoshone Falls – Idaho
Known as the “Niagara of the West,” Shoshone Falls towers 212 feet over the Snake River in southern Idaho. Shoshone Falls Park offers overlooks, walking paths, and picnic areas for visitors to enjoy this massive waterfall year-round.
Pro Tip: Be sure to have your camera when visiting these magnificent waterfalls. You will want to remember them. If you need a new camera, I like my PixPro from Kodak. It’s a great size for traveling and it takes great photos and videos.
11. Kootenai Falls – Montana
Located along the Kootenai River, Kootenai Falls is a wide, roaring cascade surrounded by forested mountains. A swinging bridge near the falls offers adventurous visitors an unforgettable viewpoint.
12. Lower Falls – Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
The Lower Falls of the Yellowstone River plunge 308 feet into the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. This is the park’s most famous waterfall and one of the most photographed natural landmarks in the country. Don’t miss Upper Falls while you’re here!
13. Lower Calf Creek Falls – Utah
Lower Calf Creek Falls is a 126-foot waterfall hidden in the desert landscape of Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument. The six-mile round-trip hike passes through colorful canyon walls before reaching a clear pool beneath the falls.
14. Havasu Falls – Arizona
Havasu Falls is world-famous for its brilliant turquoise water. Located on the Havasupai Reservation, this 100-foot waterfall requires permits and advance reservations but rewards visitors with one of the most stunning waterfall scenes in America.
15. Tahquamenon Falls – Michigan
Tahquamenon Falls is the largest waterfall in Michigan, stretching over 200 feet wide. Located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, the amber-colored water creates a dramatic contrast against the forested landscape.
16. Brandywine Falls – Ohio
Located in Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Brandywine Falls drops 65 feet over layered rock formations. A scenic 1.5-mile loop trail provides multiple viewpoints of this elegant waterfall.
17. Niagara Falls – New York
Niagara Falls is one of the most famous waterfalls in the world. While often associated with Canada, the U.S. side offers excellent viewpoints, walking paths, and boat tours for unforgettable close-up experiences.
18. Cumberland Falls – Kentucky
Nicknamed the “Niagara of the South,” Cumberland Falls is 125 feet wide and nearly 70 feet tall. Located in Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, it is also famous for producing a rare moonbow during full moons.
19. Ruby Falls – Tennessee
Ruby Falls is a 145-foot underground waterfall located inside Lookout Mountain near Chattanooga. Visitors reach the falls via a guided cave tour, making this one of the most unique waterfall experiences in the United States.
20. Whitewater Falls – North Carolina
Whitewater Falls is the tallest waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains, with a combined drop of over 800 feet. Two observation platforms provide breathtaking views of this massive cascade.
21. Anna Ruby Falls – Georgia
Located near Helen, Georgia, Anna Ruby Falls features twin waterfalls reached by a paved half-mile trail in the Chattahoochee National Forest. It is one of the most accessible waterfalls in the Southeast.
22. Little River Falls – Alabama
Little River Falls, located in Little River Canyon National Preserve, is one of Alabama’s most popular natural attractions. The surrounding area offers swimming, kayaking, and scenic overlooks for a full day of outdoor adventure.
Final Thoughts
From tropical rainforests and desert canyons to mountain valleys and forested gorges, America’s waterfalls showcase the country’s incredible natural diversity. Whether you’re planning a road trip, hiking adventure, or scenic getaway, these breathtaking waterfalls in the United States deserve a spot on your travel bucket list.
If chasing waterfalls is your idea of the perfect trip, you’ll never run out of unforgettable places to explore.