12 Stunning Waterfall Hikes in the US for Nature Lovers

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Imagine hiking to a towering alpine waterfall or a cascade on a tropical island. These incredible waterfall hikes in the US will take you on an adventure of a lifetime.

The US is full of world-famous hikes with epic views, wildlife, and incredible waterfalls. These cascades rejuvenate the air and fill our bodies with endorphins and serotonin.

For any hiker, coming face to face with these inspiring natural wonders is the ultimate reward. Below are the top 12 waterfall hikes in the US that will leave you in awe.

Yosemite Falls Trail, Yosemite National Park, California

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Yosemite Falls Trail is your gateway to the ultimate mountain waterfall in the US. The highlight of the gorgeous 7.2-mile loop is Yosemite Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in the world.

This dramatic landscape is like nowhere else on Earth. On your way to the falls, you’ll look out over captivating cliffs and dense groves of giant sequoias.

The highlight of the hike is Yosemite Falls. The roar of this 2,425-foot-tall waterfall echoes throughout the entire valley. Be warned, this waterfall will not relax you after your long hike. It will, however, charge you up like ten Red Bulls and a round of bullfighting at the Plaza de Toros.

Upper DeSoto Falls Trail, Chattahoochee National Forest, Georgia

At the Upper DeSoto Falls Trail, you’ll be transported into a dreamland. This easy trail is barely two miles round trip, but it’s one of the best waterfall hikes in the US.

According to legend, the falls are named after a Spanish conquistador who lost his armor in the falls. Nobody knows how this happened, but we suppose skinny dipping was to blame.

You’ll walk through thick forests with stunning plant life until you get to the falls. The falls cover the upper portion of Frogtown Creek, and there are plenty of areas where you can relax by the running water before heading back or continuing up the trail to Cedar Mountain.

Trail of Ten Falls, Silver Falls State Park, Oregon

The Trail of Ten Falls in the backcountry mountains east of Salem, Oregon, takes you to several breathtaking natural wonders. You’ll hike for almost 8 miles on a loop through beautiful forests.

As you advance along the well-trodden path, you’ll experience ten epic waterfalls. The path not only takes you within view of them but also behind them.

You’ll gaze out from a cave at the rushing water. For nature lovers, it’s hard to imagine a more inspiring sight. The tallest fall is the South Falls, which towers almost 180 feet above you.

Lower Yellowstone Falls Trail, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Lower Yellowstone Falls Trail is one of the most epic waterfall hikes in the US. The highlight is the stunning 308-foot Lower Yellowstone Falls.

You’ll climb a steep trail that’s less than a mile long. It may be short, but the hike can be challenging.

There are several prime viewing spots where you can capture the picture of a lifetime. Stop for some photos and explore the surrounding wilderness. You’ll know why this trail is one of the most popular in the Rockies.

Havasu Falls Trail, Havasupai Reservation, Arizona

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The Havasu Falls Trail is as far as you can get from the Bud Light-drinking, speed-boating

debauchery of Lake Havasu. If that sounds more fun, we hear they have hiking, too…

For hikers who want to slip away into a desert oasis and feel rejuvenated and inspired, this trail is hard to beat. You’ll hike a lengthy 20 miles up Havasu Creek. At the end of the trail, Havasu Falls towers in the distance.

For most of the year, the swimming holes at the base of the falls offer the perfect respite from the desert heat. To visit, you must book a permit with the Havasupai Reservation in advance. When you make your reservation, you can donate to the Havasupai Tribe Relief Fund, which helps people affected by the region’s recent floods.

Red Trail, Lehman Township, Pennsylvania

Red Trail is one of Pennslyvania’s best waterfall hikes. It takes you to the famous Bushkill Falls, a 100-foot waterfall that thunders down the forest cliff.

In summer, the trail is full of dense leaves and greenery. In the fall, however, the forest pops into bright reds and yellows, framing the magnificent waterfall.

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There are a total of eight waterfalls along the privately owned trail. Each has its own charms and hikers like to settle next to one for picnics and selfies.

Cumberland Falls Trail, Cumberland Falls State Park, Kentucky

Cumberland Falls is one of Kentucky’s most striking waterfalls and the short hike to get there is just as magnetic. The trail to get there is only one mile, but it can’t be beaten for hikers who want a slower, more relaxed pace.

You’ll walk through dense forests until you reach the horseshoe-shaped waterfall. Many people say it resembles a miniature version of the mighty Niagara Falls in New York State.

If you want a more serious hike, you can take the 11-mile Moonbow Trail loop. This epic hike takes you through the dense forest where you can see other smaller waterfalls and spectacular wildlife.

Union Falls Trail, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

The Union Falls Trail is one of Yellowstone National Park’s most exciting natural wonders. It covers 16 miles round trip and is not for the novice hiker.

Along the way, you’ll see endless views of snow-capped mountains and valleys. You may even spot impressive wildlife, like elk and bears.

The long hike culminates in Union Falls, one of the most breathtaking waterfalls in the US. This 250-foot waterfall cascades down a dramatic cliff surrounded by beautiful forest.

Canyon Rim Trail to Shoshone Falls, Twin Falls, Idaho

Canyon Rim Trail is a moderate 13-mile loop that takes you to one of the most powerful waterfalls in North America, Shoshone Falls. You’ll see an impressive waterfall exploding over the desert canyon.

Along the hike, you’ll see wildlife, desert plants, and views that look like they’re out of a Bob Ross painting. Bring plenty of snacks and water because you’ll want to stay for a while.

Spring and early is the best time to see the falls. The heavy winter snowfall melts and creates a torrent of water. In the fall there’s not so much to see for visitors.

Lower Calf Creek Falls Trail, Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, Utah

Take the Lower Calf Creek Falls Trail and you’ll get more than an impressive waterfall. Along the way, you’ll pass ancient cave art and historical sites. For hikers looking for ancient history in a peaceful setting, this is the place.

The trail takes you six miles round trip along Lower Calf Creek. Above you will be red rock cliffs, many of which hide ancient archeological sites.

When you get to the trail, you’ll have the 126-foot Lower Calf Creek Falls roaring in front of you. The lime-green water at the base is one of the most inviting swimming holes in Utah, especially after the long hike.

Multnomah Falls Trail, Columbia River Gorge, Oregon

Hiking the Multnomah Falls Trail is like stepping into a fantasy novel. You’ll be surrounded by gigantic trees, gigantic cliffs, and an even more gigantic waterfall.

At over 600 feet of elevation gain, Multnomah Falls is one of the state’s biggest cascades. The trail takes you almost 4.5 miles round trip through dense forest. The view of the falls and the dramatic bridge along the top of the canyon is extraordinary.

For even more waterfall adventures and views, take the 5.5-mile Wahkeena Falls loop trail. You’ll come to another impressive waterfall and maybe catch it all to yourself.

Deer Creek Falls Trail, Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Deer Creek Falls is one of the most beautiful desert waterfall hikes in the US. Not only does it take you through the mighty Grand Canyon, but you’ll be rewarded with a lush oasis at the end.

The loop covers 21.5 miles of sheer wilderness. There’s a mean 2,000 descent followed by long stretches of precarious trail down the canyon.

The reward is the incredible Deer Creek Falls. The waterfall is around 180 feet high and creates a thunderous crash in the canyon. The red rocks and greenery around it are almost too beautiful to imagine.