1. Niagara Falls, New York
Niagara Falls, straddling the border between New York and Ontario, Canada, is undoubtedly one of the most famous waterfalls in the world. Comprised of three waterfalls—Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls—it offers breathtaking views and a variety of activities, including boat tours that take you close to the thundering waters. The sheer volume of water flowing over Niagara Falls, approximately 3,160 tons per second, is a sight to behold.
2. Yosemite Falls, California
Located in Yosemite National Park, Yosemite Falls is the tallest waterfall in North America, plunging a total of 2,425 feet from the top of the upper fall to the base of the lower fall. Visitors can enjoy spectacular views from various points in the park, with the best times to visit being during the spring when the snowmelt increases the flow.
3. Multnomah Falls, Oregon
Multnomah Falls, nestled in the Columbia River Gorge, is Oregon’s tallest waterfall at 620 feet. This iconic cascade is easily accessible from the Historic Columbia River Highway and features a charming footbridge that allows visitors to get up close and personal with the falls. The lush, green surroundings make for a picturesque setting year-round.
4. Havasu Falls, Arizona
Hidden within the Grand Canyon, Havasu Falls is renowned for its striking turquoise waters, which are a result of high mineral content. The falls drop 100 feet into a stunning blue pool, creating a paradise-like oasis in the desert. Accessing Havasu Falls requires a challenging hike and a permit, but the effort is well worth it for the breathtaking scenery.
5. Bridalveil Fall, California
Another gem within Yosemite National Park, Bridalveil Fall plunges 620 feet and is often the first waterfall visitors see upon entering the park. Known for its ethereal mist, which resembles a bridal veil, this waterfall is especially captivating in the spring when it flows most vigorously.
6. Shoshone Falls, Idaho
Dubbed the “Niagara of the West,” Shoshone Falls is actually higher than Niagara Falls, standing at 212 feet tall. Located on the Snake River near Twin Falls, Idaho, this natural wonder offers spectacular views and is particularly impressive during the spring when the river flow is at its peak.
7. Akaka Falls, Hawaii
Located on the Big Island of Hawaii, Akaka Falls plummets 442 feet into a lush gorge surrounded by tropical rainforest. The easy hike to the falls takes visitors through vibrant greenery and past smaller cascades, making it a must-see destination for nature lovers.
8. Ruby Falls, Tennessee
Ruby Falls, located deep within Lookout Mountain near Chattanooga, Tennessee, is the nation’s tallest and deepest underground waterfall open to the public. Descending 145 feet within a cavern, this unique waterfall is illuminated to highlight its beauty, providing a truly magical experience.
9. Lower Falls, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Lower Falls in Yellowstone National Park is the park’s largest waterfall, dropping 308 feet into the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. The dramatic views of the waterfall and the canyon’s colorful walls make it a highlight of any visit to the park.
10. Alamere Falls, California
One of the few tidefalls in North America, Alamere Falls in Point Reyes National Seashore cascades directly into the Pacific Ocean. This 40-foot waterfall requires a scenic hike along coastal bluffs, offering stunning ocean views and a truly unique waterfall experience.
11. Cumberland Falls, Kentucky
Known as the “Niagara of the South,” Cumberland Falls is famous for its impressive 125-foot-wide curtain of water. It is one of the few places in the Western Hemisphere where you can witness a “moonbow,” a nighttime rainbow caused by the mist of the falls under a full moon.
12. Amicalola Falls, Georgia
Amicalola Falls is the tallest waterfall in Georgia, with a total height of 729 feet. Located in Amicalola Falls State Park, this stunning waterfall is accessible via a series of trails and staircases, offering numerous vantage points to admire the cascading waters.
13. McWay Falls, California
Situated in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park along the Big Sur coast, McWay Falls is an 80-foot waterfall that empties directly into the Pacific Ocean. The waterfall is particularly enchanting at sunset, and its unique setting makes it one of the most photographed spots on the California coast.
14. Palouse Falls, Washington
Palouse Falls in eastern Washington drops 200 feet into a dramatic canyon, creating a powerful and awe-inspiring sight. The falls are a remnant of the Ice Age floods and are located in Palouse Falls State Park, offering excellent hiking and photography opportunities.
15. Taughannock Falls, New York
Located in Taughannock Falls State Park, Taughannock Falls is one of the tallest single-drop waterfalls east of the Rocky Mountains, with a height of 215 feet. The gorge and trails surrounding the falls provide a beautiful setting for hiking and picnicking.
16. Blackwater Falls, West Virginia
Blackwater Falls in Blackwater Falls State Park is named for its dark, amber-colored waters, tinted by tannic acid from fallen hemlock and red spruce needles. The 57-foot cascade is a stunning sight year-round, especially when surrounded by autumn foliage or winter ice.
17. Rainbow Falls, North Carolina
Situated in the Nantahala National Forest, Rainbow Falls drops 150 feet and is named for the rainbows that often appear in its mist. The falls are accessible via a scenic hike along the Horsepasture River, offering a refreshing spot to cool off on a hot day.
18. Tahquamenon Falls, Michigan
Tahquamenon Falls, located in Tahquamenon Falls State Park, is one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi River. The upper falls, with a drop of nearly 50 feet and a width of over 200 feet, are particularly impressive, especially in the fall when surrounded by colorful foliage.
19. Vernal Fall, California
Another stunning waterfall in Yosemite National Park, Vernal Fall drops 317 feet and is accessible via the popular Mist Trail. The hike offers close-up views of the roaring waters and a refreshing mist that cools hikers on their way to the top.
20. Burney Falls, California
Burney Falls in McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park is a breathtaking 129-foot waterfall that is fed by underground springs. President Theodore Roosevelt once described it as the “eighth wonder of the world,” and the falls’ constant flow and beautiful setting make it easy to see why.
21. Snoqualmie Falls, Washington
Located near Seattle, Snoqualmie Falls is a 268-foot waterfall that attracts over 1.5 million visitors each year. The falls are a popular destination for both locals and tourists, offering beautiful views and an adjacent park with walking trails and a historic lodge.
These 21 stunning waterfalls, each with their unique charm and beauty, offer unforgettable experiences for nature enthusiasts and travelers alike.
Whether you’re planning a dedicated trip or adding a waterfall visit to your itinerary, these natural wonders are sure to impress and inspire.