Posted by Best Waterfalls of the USA
The United States is home to some of the most beautiful and breathtaking waterfalls in the world. The sheer size and power of these cascades make them awe-inspiring, but what makes this list even more amazing are their natural surroundings. Some offer a glimpse into history with sites that date back thousands of years, while others provide a relaxing escape from everyday life.
“A waterfall is a place where the water flows from high up on a steep surface and goes directly into the body of water below. The word “waterfall” can also refer to the sound of running water.”
Waterfalls are beautiful places that provide an opportunity for people to take in nature’s beauty. There are many different types of falls, like cascading, plunging, or even tiered. Some famous examples include Niagara Falls in New York and Iguazu Falls in Argentina. As you explore this blog post about some of America’s best falls, be sure to leave your thoughts in the comments section!
A waterfall is one of the most refreshing sights in the world. We have compiled a list of some of the best waterfalls to visit in America, including their location and why they are so spectacular. Whether you are looking for a day trip or vacation, these waterfalls will not disappoint!
Top 10 Best Waterfalls in the U.S.A
Here are the Best Waterfalls in the U.S 2024:
- CUMBERLAND FALLS – McCreary County / Whitley County, Kentucky, USA
- TAHQUAMENON FALLS – Paradise, Michigan, USA
- HAVASU FALLS – Havasupai Indian Reservation, Arizona, USA
- BURNEY FALLS – near Mt Shasta, California, USA
- MULTNOMAH FALLS – Columbia River Gorge, Oregon, USA
- BRIDALVEIL FALL – Yosemite National Park, California, USA
- UNION FALLS – Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, USA
- LOWER FALLS (OF THE YELLOWSTONE RIVER) – Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, USA
- YOSEMITE FALLS – Yosemite National Park, California, USA
- NIAGARA FALLS – New York, USA
10. CUMBERLAND FALLS – McCreary County / Whitley County, Kentucky, USA
Located in Kentucky, Cumberland Falls is the tallest of all waterfalls in America. At 109 feet high and with a width of 275 feet wide it’s not only one of America’s best waterfalls but also one of the most beautiful ones on Earth.
The falls are formed by Laurel River which flows through McCreary and Whitley counties. The falls are formed at the top, where Laurel River enters a deep gorge that is about 300 feet wide.
Laurel Creek meets with Indian Creek to form what we now know as Cumberland Falls then flows for another 650 yards until it reaches its final destination – Bear Creek below. It is one of the Best Waterfalls in the U.S 2024.
Cumberland Falls has been a tourist attraction since 1827 when 20,000 people visited in one year alone. It can be reached by car or on foot from US 27E near Corbin, KY (about 19 miles north of London). A park was created around the falls which includes picnic areas, walking trails and campsites.”
9. TAHQUAMENON FALLS – Paradise, Michigan, USA
“Tahquamenon Falls, also known as the “Niagara of the West,” is formed by two free-falling waterfalls on Tahquamenon River. The falls are split into upper and lower sections by a small island that stands in between them.” It is one of the Best Waterfalls in the U.S.A 2024.
“The Niagara of the West offers visitors four miles of walking trails to explore both Upper and Lower Tahquamenon Falls from various vantage points.”
“Lower Falls: A trail leads visitors past a series of smaller cascades before arriving at the Lower Falls where one can enjoy stunning views from an observation deck with benches, picnic tables and informational signs about waterfall history. Those choosing not to walk along this path can take their time driving down US 41 for approximately one mile to arrive at the Lower Falls Viewing Area.”
“Upper Falls: Upper Tahquamenon Falls are a major attraction for visitors. Visitors can hike from anywhere up to two-miles roundtrip, which includes crossing two bridges and passing through deep forest, as they make their way to this scenic landmark. The observation deck here offers views of both Upper and Lower Falls as well as provides access to the falls’ best swimming hole.”
“Tahquamenon River State Park: This state park features over 50 miles of hiking trails that include many waterfalls such as Crystal Beach Cascade, Crooked Lake Canal Cascades, Fawn Creek Cascades, Labyrinth Cascades and more!”
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8. HAVASU FALLS – Havasupai Indian Reservation, Arizona, USA
“Havasupai Indian Reservation, Arizona, USA: The Havasupai tribe was originally discovered by European settlers when they stumbled upon the falls. This reservation is best known for its three waterfalls that are located in beautifully clear blue pools.”
“Ledge Falls: Ledge Falls offers a wide variety of scenery and environmental life with large natural stone columns and an amazing array of desert plants.”
“The Navajo people believe these cascading waters have healing properties as many tribal members come to bathe themselves or take part in ceremonies involving the gentle cleansing power of waterfall’s flowing stream.”
7. BURNEY FALLS – near Mt Shasta, California, USA
Burney Falls is a waterfall located near Mount Shasta in California. It is the second-tallest free-falling waterfall in the United States, after Yosemite Falls and before Angel’s Landing.
“Burney Creek flows over volcanic rock for more than half of its course to create this dramatic cataract.” It is one of the Best Waterfalls in the U.S.
The water cascades nearly 100 feet down an almost 20 degree slope from one pool to another below it.
The falls also form other pools that are popular swimming holes when they have enough water coming down them which happens most often during winter storms or after heavy rainstorms upstream.
This area has been called “one of those perfect spots where I could just sit there all day long.”
6. MULTNOMAH FALLS – Columbia River Gorge, Oregon, USA
“Multnomah Falls is a waterfall on the edge of Multnomah County in Oregon. It is located east of Troutdale near the center of the city limits and west-southwest from Portland.”
The falls drops in two major steps, split into an upper fall of 165 feet (50 m) and a lower fall of 69 feet (21 m), totaling 245 feet (75 m). The highest single drop measureable by survey at 35 meters or 115 feet high. It is one of the Best Waterfalls in America 2024.
This makes it second tallest year round waterfall in United States behind Yosemite Fall’s 317 meter height when measured non-seasonally. In addition to being one of the most popular attractions in the Columbia River Gorge, it is one of Oregon’s most iconic natural landmarks.
Multnomah Falls can be reached by hiking trails from either Multnomah Village to the north or Corbett to the south. The lower trailhead at Multnomah village is a shorter hike that leads right up to the falls and has less elevation gain while taking longer time. A much steeper route begins at Wahkeena Springs which offers a short loop around Upper Multonmah Falls before reaching Benson Bridge above Lower Multnomah Falls with panoramic views of both tiers along its way down from Larch Mountain.
5. BRIDALVEIL FALL – Yosemite National Park, California, USA
On the left side of Yosemite Valley, Bridalveil Fall is one of the best-known waterfalls in North America. The falls are long and wide with a large volume of flow that drops from an elevation just over to .
The historic Camp Curry was once located at its base but has since been moved away because it was deemed too dangerous for visitors. In winter months when there’s enough snowfall, ice climbers often scale this area as well. It is one of the Best Waterfalls in America 2024.
Best time: all year – summer (mid-June to late September) or winter (late November through March)
Historic Name: Ahwahnee Hotel, formerly known as “Curry” hotel until 1968
Lowest View Point Elevation: 9900
Highest View Point Elevation: 9900
4. UNION FALLS – Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, USA
The Yellowstone National Park is best known for its geothermal features, but it also contains some other astonishing natural beauties. Union Falls lies within the park’s borders and consists of a series of three waterfalls that flow into one another from different heights. It was named after the two unions: US-Canadian union which happened on July 20th 1867 and German Unions (federation) in 1871.
Best Time: summer/fall (June to October), winter (November through March)
Lowest View Point Elevation: 6000 feet above sea level
Highest View Point Elevation: 6030 feet above sea level
3. LOWER FALLS (OF THE YELLOWSTONE RIVER) – Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, USA
Lower Falls is the largest waterfall in Yellowstone National Park. It’s located on Lewis River and can be seen from a driving tour of Grand Loop Road or hiking along the Upper Geyser Basin. The falls consist of two major drops over a cliff, one with an elevation of 170 feet (51 m) and another 106 foot drop (32 m). It is one of the Best Waterfalls in the U.S 2024.
Best Time: summer/fall (June to October), winter (November through March)
Lowest View Point Elevation: 5680 feet above sea level
Highest View Point Elevation: 5920 feet above sea level
2. YOSEMITE FALLS – Yosemite National Park, California, USA
Yosemite Falls is the highest single-drop waterfall in North America with an elevation of 2425 feet (740 m). It can be seen from many viewing points within Yosemite National Park. The best time to see it is during spring when there’s lots of snow melt and rain. It is one of the Best Waterfalls in the World 2024.
This 2,425ft waterfall is one of the tallest in the world and widely considered to be Yosemite National Park’s crown jewel. The only catch with this beauty is that it dries up by mid-to-late Summer as snow melts through its massive winter pack very quickly thanks to its bare granite drainage basin. Nevertheless, if it can induce superlatives from Ansel Adams or John Muir, there’s a good chance you’ll feel similarly!
Best Time: summer/fall (June to October), winter (November through March)
Lowest View Point Elevation: 2400 feet above sea level
Highest View Point Elevation: 2600 feet above sea level
1. NIAGARA FALLS – New York, USA
Niagara Falls is the Best Waterfall in the U.S 2024 and aLso one of the most powerful waterfalls in North America with an elevation of 167 feet (51 m). It’s best seen during winter when there’s less ice.
Best time: summer/fall (June to October) and winter (November through March)
The Great American Waterfall is the undisputed king of waterfalls in America. One look at its sheer power and size, which easily surpasses anything that this country has to offer; one visit from both sides (Western New York & Southeastern Ontario); an opportunity for you to experience it like never before with your passport—you’ll find yourself wanting more! We consider this waterfall as one of the World’s Big Three so expect a top-notch viewing experience here on our list amongst America’s Top 10.
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The best waterfalls in the U.S are waiting for you to visit them! Do you know where your favorite waterfall is? Is it a short hike or one that requires some time and effort? Share this blog post with all of your friends who love nature and need a new hiking destination, so they can enjoy these natural wonders too. Which waterfall would you like to visit next on our list?