17 Breathtaking Waterfalls in the U.S. You Can Hike to for Adventure
For outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, nothing beats the thrill of hiking to a hidden gem—a majestic waterfall nestled in the wilderness. The U.S. is home to some of the most stunning waterfalls, each offering a unique combination of natural beauty and serenity.
These hikes provide an ideal way to explore the landscape while enjoying the peaceful sound of cascading water. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely walk or a more challenging trek, here are 17 incredible waterfalls in the U.S. that are accessible by foot, promising scenic views and an unforgettable adventure.
1. Multnomah Falls, Oregon
This two-tiered waterfall near Portland is one of the tallest in the U.S., reaching 620 feet. Hikers can enjoy a short, scenic trail that offers breathtaking views of the waterfall and the surrounding Columbia River Gorge.
2. Havasu Falls, Arizona
Located in the remote Havasupai Indian Reservation, this waterfall is known for its stunning turquoise waters. The hike to Havasu Falls is challenging, but the reward is worth it—a paradise hidden deep within the Grand Canyon.
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3. Bridalveil Fall, California
Situated in Yosemite National Park, Bridalveil Fall offers a relatively easy hike with stunning views. The waterfall plunges 620 feet, creating a mist that often forms beautiful rainbows in the sunlight.
4. Rainbow Falls, North Carolina
Located in the Pisgah National Forest, Rainbow Falls is a 150-foot beauty that lives up to its name. Hike along the Horsepasture River to reach this waterfall, where you’ll often see rainbows form in the mist.
5. Alamere Falls, California
Alamere Falls is one of the few waterfalls in the U.S. that flows directly into the ocean. The moderately difficult hike along the California coast rewards visitors with sweeping ocean views and the sight of this rare tidefall.
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6. Shoshone Falls, Idaho
Known as the “Niagara of the West,” Shoshone Falls is actually taller than its famous counterpart. Hiking to the viewing areas around the falls offers panoramic views of the Snake River and the 212-foot cascade.
7. Amicalola Falls, Georgia
Amicalola Falls is the tallest waterfall in Georgia, plunging 729 feet through a lush forested area. Hikers can choose between several trails, including a moderate route with steps leading to breathtaking views.
8. Lower Falls of the Yellowstone, Wyoming
Located in Yellowstone National Park, this 308-foot waterfall is a spectacular sight. The hike to Artist Point offers one of the best views of Lower Falls, surrounded by the park’s iconic yellow cliffs.
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9. McWay Falls, California
McWay Falls in Big Sur is another rare tidefall that drops 80 feet onto the sandy beach below. Although you can’t hike directly to the falls, a short trail offers stunning views of the coastline and this picturesque waterfall.
10. Niagara Falls, New York
While famous for its boat tours, Niagara Falls also offers hiking trails that allow visitors to experience its grandeur up close. The Niagara Gorge Trail provides incredible views of the American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Horseshoe Falls.
11. Cumberland Falls, Kentucky
Often called the “Niagara of the South,” Cumberland Falls is famous for its unique moonbow—a rainbow created by the moonlight. Hikers can follow the scenic Eagle Falls Trail for a closer view of this 125-foot-wide waterfall.
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12. Palouse Falls, Washington
Palouse Falls is one of Washington’s most dramatic waterfalls, dropping 198 feet into a rugged canyon. The hike to the waterfall’s viewpoint offers an unforgettable sight, with the surrounding cliffs providing a stunning backdrop.
13. Vernal Fall, California
One of Yosemite National Park’s most popular waterfalls, Vernal Fall drops 317 feet and is accessible via the Mist Trail. The steep hike is rewarded with misty, up-close views of the powerful waterfall.
14. Ruby Falls, Tennessee
Located within Lookout Mountain, Ruby Falls is an underground waterfall that plunges 145 feet into a cavern. A short walk through the cave system leads to this breathtaking underground wonder, making it a unique hiking experience.
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15. Twin Falls, Washington
Nestled in the Snoqualmie region, Twin Falls is a beautiful hike that follows the South Fork Snoqualmie River. The trail offers multiple viewpoints of the falls, which drop in two segments through the lush Pacific Northwest forest.
16. Burney Falls, California
Burney Falls, located in Northern California, is a 129-foot waterfall fed by underground springs. The short, easy hike through McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park offers stunning views of this cascading beauty.
17. Taughannock Falls, New York
Taughannock Falls in the Finger Lakes region is the tallest single-drop waterfall east of the Rockies, standing at 215 feet. The gorge trail leads hikers to a viewpoint directly in front of the waterfall, offering an awe-inspiring perspective.
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