Some waterfalls dazzle with sheer force, while others offer a peaceful escape through tranquil woods and gentle cascades. This handpicked list of hiking trails with waterfalls across the U.S. includes both awe-inspiring giants and hidden gems perfect for unwinding.
Each trail in this guide is accessible within half a day’s hike and varies in difficulty, so there’s something for everyone. As always, check trail conditions, permits, and pack essential gear, especially water, if trekking during summer’s peak heat. Now, are you ready to explore with National Park Shops?
Silver Falls State Park, Oregon
- Location: Silver Falls State Park
- Height: 178 feet (tallest of 10 falls on this hike)
- Distance: 7.8-mile loop
- Elevation Gain: 800 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Dog-friendly: Only on the Rim Trail part of the loop
Silver Falls State Park in Oregon is a dream destination for anyone who’s passionate about hiking trails with waterfalls. Just 20 miles east of Salem, this scenic park is home to the Trail of Ten Falls, a breathtaking 7.2-mile loop that showcases ten mesmerizing waterfalls. One of the most unforgettable features is the chance to walk behind several of these falls – South Falls, the park’s most iconic, plunges 177 feet with a path leading directly behind the cascade. Other stunning stops include Lower South Falls, Middle North Falls, and Double Falls, the tallest in the park at 178 feet.
As you follow the trail, you’ll pass through dense, emerald forests, moss-covered canyons, and elevated viewpoints that create an immersive outdoor experience. The hike is considered moderately challenging and typically takes between 3.5 to 5 hours to complete. Note that dogs are only permitted on designated portions, so it’s wise to check trail rules beforehand. Spring and fall are the best seasons for exploring hiking trails with waterfalls here spring delivers roaring falls and vibrant wildflowers, while fall treats visitors to golden foliage. A $5 day-use fee applies, and the park offers amenities like picnic spots, restrooms, and a campground for those planning an overnight stay.
>> Read More: Dog Friendly National Parks: Best U.S. Parks to Visit
Yosemite Falls, California
- Location: Yosemite National Park
- Height: 2,425 feet
- Distance: 7.2 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 2,700 feet
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Dog-friendly: No
Yosemite is legendary for its towering granite cliffs and the spectacular waterfalls that tumble from their heights, including iconic names like Horsetail and Vernal. Among the most remarkable hiking trails with waterfalls here is the route to Yosemite Falls, which plunges an astounding 2,425 feet, making it the fifth tallest waterfall on the planet and one of the most celebrated in the contiguous United States. For an easy option, visitors can follow a scenic one-mile loop near Yosemite Valley Lodge to reach the base of the lower falls. For a more strenuous adventure, the 7.2-mile round-trip Yosemite Falls Trail offers breathtaking views from the summit of the upper falls.
The falls are at their most powerful in May and June, fueled by snowmelt, while winter adds a magical touch with frost tracing the rocky edges. As one of the most rewarding hiking trails with waterfalls, this Yosemite gem promises awe-inspiring views in every season.
Cumberland Falls, Kentucky
- Location: Cumberland Falls State Park
- Height: 69 feet
- Distance: 1 mile round trip
- Elevation Gain: 200 feet
- Difficulty: Easy hiking trail
- Dog-friendly: Yes
Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, nestled near Corbin, Kentucky, is a must-visit for outdoor lovers and anyone passionate about hiking trails with waterfalls. Often dubbed the “Niagara of the South,” the park’s crown jewel is Cumberland Falls – a breathtaking cascade that stands 68 feet high and stretches 125 feet wide. On nights with a full moon, the mist from the falls can reveal a rare natural wonder called a moonbow, a lunar rainbow that’s truly a sight to behold.
The park features roughly 17 miles of scenic trails weaving through the lush beauty of the Daniel Boone National Forest. One standout is the Eagle Falls Trail (Trail #9), a 1.5-mile route that rewards hikers with views of both the massive Cumberland Falls and the 44-foot Eagle Falls. This trail hugs cliff edges, offers sweeping views of the Cumberland River, and features rocky sections and stairs that give it a moderately challenging rating.
For those craving a longer adventure, the Moonbow Trail extends into the surrounding forest and links up with additional backpacking routes, offering a chance to immerse yourself in local wildlife and plant life. If you’re seeking memorable hiking trails with waterfalls, this park delivers with natural beauty and unique experiences.
>> Read More: Best National Parks in the US: Top 15 Must-See Beautiful Parks
Lower Yellowstone Falls, Wyoming
- Location: Yellowstone National Park
- Height: 308 feet
- Distance: .75 mile round trip
- Elevation Gain: 600-foot descent one way
- Difficulty: Moderate (very steep)
- Dog-friendly: No
This powerful Yellowstone waterfall plunges 308 feet over ancient lava rock into the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, releasing up to 8,400 cubic feet of water per second, making it the most voluminous waterfall in the Rocky Mountains. You can admire the Lower Yellowstone Falls from four scenic overlooks along a one-way loop drive, then hike a steep 0.75-mile round-trip trail to reach the top of the falls for a close-up experience. To get an even more dramatic view, descend 328 steel steps to the base. It’s one of the most iconic hiking trails with waterfalls in Yellowstone and a must for anyone seeking dramatic scenery on foot.
You can explore more of Yellowstone through the following blog posts: Best Time To Visit Yellowstone National Park, Places To Stay Near Yellowstone National Park, Camping Near Yellowstone National Park
Virginia Falls, Montana
- Location: Glacier National Park
- Height: 50 feet
- Distance: 3.6 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 525 feet
- Difficulty: Easy
- Dog-friendly: No
What’s more rewarding than catching sight of a single waterfall? Discovering three in one unforgettable adventure. The 3.6-mile round-trip trek to Virginia Falls in Glacier National Park treats hikers to not only the breathtaking main cascade but also two smaller, equally charming waterfalls along the way. Framed by stunning views of 8,064-foot Dusty Star Mountain, this scenic route is one of the park’s most popular hiking trails with waterfalls. Once you arrive at the final falls, take a moment to relax and soak your feet in the refreshing turquoise pools while soaking in the beauty around you.
Multnomah Falls, Oregon
- Location: Columbia River Gorge
- Height: 620 feet
- Distance: 4.4 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 100 feet
- Difficulty: Easy
- Dog-friendly: Yes, leashed
Oregon is overflowing with spectacular waterfalls, making it nearly impossible to capture them all in one list. Begin your adventure with the tallest: Multnomah Falls. The 2.2-mile Multnomah Falls Trail offers incredible views from various vantage points, including the iconic Simon Benson Bridge that spans the waterfall’s lower tier. For those looking to extend the journey, take on the more challenging 5.5-mile Wahkeena Falls loop, which rewards hikers with a second stunning cascade. These routes are among the most scenic hiking trails with waterfalls, showcasing the lush beauty and rugged charm of the Pacific Northwest.
Niagara Falls, New York
- Location: Niagara Falls State Park
- Height: 188 feet
- Dog-friendly: Yes
Niagara Falls may be packed with tourists and souvenir shops, but strip that away, and you’re left with a stunning truth: it’s the most powerful waterfall in North America. While the Canadian side often claims bragging rights for its views, the American side boasts several easy-to-moderate hiking trails with waterfalls that showcase all three major cascades, American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Horseshoe Falls. For a refreshing perspective, take the 2.2-mile Goat Island Scenic Walk and enjoy breathtaking vistas from multiple angles along one of the area’s most scenic hiking trails with waterfalls.
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Deer Creek Falls, Arizona
- Location: Grand Canyon National Park
- Height: 180 feet
- Distance: 21.5-mile loop
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Dog-friendly: No
Whether you’re hiking or paddling, reaching this remote 180-foot waterfall is a true adventure. For those seeking a scenic trek, take on the 21.5-mile, five-day loop that links the Thunder River and Deer Creek Trails. This route features steep descents, including a dramatic 2,000-foot drop over just 2.5 miles, and incredible views of canyon cliffs and cascading waters. It’s one of the most rewarding hiking trails with waterfalls, offering a rugged backcountry experience for those ready to explore the wilder side of nature.
Shoshone Falls, Idaho
- Location: Twin Falls
- Height: 212 feet
- Distance: 12.6 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 850 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Dog-friendly: Yes, leashed
Can’t make it to the Niagara of the South? Say hello to the Niagara of the West – Shoshone Falls. This mighty cascade truly comes alive in spring after snowy winters, when water flow can surge to an incredible 20,000 cubic feet per second, ranking it among the most powerful in the U.S. For the best experience, skip the summer and fall months when water is often diverted for irrigation. Instead of battling crowds, take the scenic route along the 12.6-mile out-and-back Canyon Rim Trail – one of the most rewarding hiking trails with waterfalls for nature lovers and solitude seekers alike.
Union Falls, Wyoming
- Location: Yellowstone National Park
- Height: 250 feet
- Distance: 16 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 600 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate-Strenuous
- Dog-friendly: No
Tucked away in Yellowstone, the 250-foot Union Falls see far fewer visitors than the iconic Lower Yellowstone Falls, likely because reaching them requires a 16-mile round-trip trek, complete with a thrilling ford across the Falls River (not recommended before July due to high water). For a more immersive adventure, consider turning your journey into an overnight stay at the Union Falls backcountry campsite ($3 per person, with reservations suggested). This hidden gem is one of the most rewarding hiking trails with waterfalls for those seeking solitude and scenic splendor.
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Grand Falls, Arizona
- Location: Painted Desert, Navajo Nation, 30 miles northeast of Flagstaff, Arizona
- Height: 185 feet (56 meters)
- Distance: Approximately 0.3 miles
- Elevation Gain: Approximately 180 feet descent to reach the base.
- Difficulty: Moderate
For a more accessible yet equally stunning alternative, head to Grand Falls on Navajo Nation land in Arizona’s Painted Desert. Unlike any other, this natural wonder features silt-rich water from the Little Colorado River that cascades in a mesmerizing chocolate hue. For travelers in search of unique hiking trails with waterfalls, Grand Falls offers a rare and unforgettable experience.
Rainbow Falls, Tennessee
- Location: Access the trailhead via Cherokee Orchard Road, just outside Gatlinburg, TN.
- Distance: Approximately 0.3 miles
- Elevation Gain: About 1,500 feet (457 meters)
- Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
Rainbow Falls, the tallest single-drop waterfall in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, lives up to its name with a dazzling arc of colors that forms in the mist on sunny days. The trail to this captivating spot begins off the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail – a scenic drive winding through dense forests and past preserved farmsteads, just a short distance from the charming mountain town of Gatlinburg, Tennessee.
For those seeking hiking trails with waterfalls, the 5.4-mile round-trip hike to Rainbow Falls is a must-do, though it comes with a moderate-to-strenuous challenge. The path is often rocky and steadily climbs in elevation, but the rewards are abundant: vibrant rhododendron and mountain laurel lining the trail, crystal-clear creeks, and the impressive 80-foot cascade itself. Adventurous hikers looking for extended hiking trails with waterfalls can continue another 4 miles to Mount Le Conte’s summit. Otherwise, head back to Gatlinburg or nearby Pigeon Forge for some well-earned rest and a taste of Southern comfort food.
Havasu Falls, Arizona
- Location: Havasupai Reservation
- Height: 100 feet
- Distance: 20 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 2,400 feet (downhill to the falls)
- Difficulty: Very Strenuous
- Dog-friendly: No
Havasu Falls isn’t just breathtaking, it also boasts crystal-clear, blue-green waters that remain a comfortable 70 degrees year-round, making it an ideal spot for a refreshing swim no matter the season. However, visiting this oasis comes with a caveat: permits are required in advance since the falls lie within the Havasupai Reservation.
The adventure begins on the 10-mile Havasupai Trail, starting at Hualapai Hilltop, and it’s one of the most sought-after hiking trails with waterfalls in the Southwest. This remarkable trek not only leads you to the falls but also immerses you in the awe-inspiring scenery of canyon walls, desert flora, and cascading streams, solidifying its place among the most unforgettable hiking trails with waterfalls in the U.S.
Amicalola Falls, Georgia
- Location: Amicalola Falls State Park, Dawsonville, Georgia
- Height: 729 feet (222 meters)
- Distance: The main trail to the top of the falls is approximately 2.1 miles (3.4 km) round trip
- Elevation Gain: Approximately 600 feet (183 meters)
- Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
Absolutely, this is one of the tallest cascading waterfalls east of the Mississippi. But there’s more to it than just the view. “It also marks the beginning of the eight-mile Approach Trail leading to the southern terminus of the iconic Appalachian Trail, nestled within Georgia’s Chattahoochee National Forest,” says Mark Jaronski, deputy commissioner of Explore Georgia. For those who love hiking trails with waterfalls, this location offers the perfect mix of natural grandeur and legendary trail access, making it a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts in the Southeast.
Tahquamenon Falls, Michigan
- Location: Tahquamenon Falls State Park, Paradise, Upper Peninsula, Michigan, USA
- Height: Approximately 48 feet (14.6 meters)
- Distance: About 10.2 miles (16.4 km) roundtrip
- Elevation Gain: Approximately 636 feet (194 meters) total elevation gain
- Difficulty: Moderate
Standing nearly 50 feet high and stretching over 200 feet wide, Tahquamenon Falls is a mesmerizing sight, with its rich, root beer-colored waters created by tannins seeping from the surrounding cedar swamps at the headwaters of the Tahquamenon River. This unique natural wonder flows throughout the year, making it a perfect stop on any Midwest road trip. The area also features some of Michigan’s most scenic hiking trails with waterfalls, allowing visitors to experience the falls from multiple vantage points while immersing themselves in the beauty of the Upper Peninsula.
Conclusion
Chasing scenic views and the sound of rushing water is always a good idea, and hiking trails with waterfalls offer just that and more. They invite you to slow down, soak in nature’s rhythm, and capture unforgettable moments. So, lace up your boots, grab your camera, and let the magic of misty falls and forest paths guide your next adventure.
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