20+ Incredible Waterfalls to Add to your Bucket List
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Waterfalls truly are a sight to behold, and fortunately, they can be found in all 50 states. While some areas like the Pacific Northwest and the mid Atlantic are home to an incredible array of magnificent waterfalls, these gems of nature can be found just about anywhere. Whether tall or small, seeing a beautiful waterfall can do wonders to lower your stress level. Hiking to a waterfall is a wonderful weekend activity which will restore both your mind and body. In my guide, I highlight 20 beautiful waterfalls that I have come across in my 15 years of traveling across the US.
1. Multnomah Falls
- Location: Columbia River Gorge of Oregon
- Hike distance: 1.2 miles-out-and back, or view from base or observing bridge (easy 0.2 mile walk)
Multnomah Falls is a 3 tiered waterfall with a total height of 635 feet. It is not only the tallest waterfall in Oregon, but also one of the tallest in the entire country. As a truly awe-inspiring sight, it comes at no surprise that over 2 million tourists from around the world flock here every year. With Oregon’s mild climate, there really is never a bad time to view this beauty. Not only is Multnomah the most impressive waterfall in the state, it’s also one of the most easily accessible. While the hike is a mere 1.2 miles, anyone not up for a workout can simply view from the observing platform.
2. Yellow Branch Falls
- Location: Upstate South Carolina
- Hike distance: 1.5 miles out-and-back
Yellow Branch is one of the most stunning of the dozens of incredible waterfalls scattered around Upstate South Carolina. While this waterfall only stands a mere 50 feet, the unique stepped design truly sets it apart from others in the vicinity. You will want to plan the hike to this one after a major storm, as that is when this beauty truly comes alive. A mere 1.5 mile hike will lead you to this incredible wonder of nature. This trail is usually pretty secluded, and thus, hiking here makes for a perfect quiet weekend nature escape. I hiked so many gorgeous trails during my time living in the Upstate: Yellow Branch is the most scenic by far.
3. Shoshone Falls
- Location: Southern Idaho
- Hike distance: Just a quick 5 minute walk
Shoshone, at a height of 212 feet and width of 1000, has been nicknamed “the Niagara of the West.” Anyone traveling near the Southwestern Idaho region will definitely want to plan for a little detour to see this natural wonder. Spring is the best time to visit as the water intensity is far stronger after the winter snow melts. The voluminous waterfall sits on the Snake River, just a few miles from the town of Twin Falls. While Shoshone is located in an isolated part of the state, it makes for an easy 2 hour daytrip from Boise, a wonderful vacation destination.
4. Kaaterskill Falls
- Location: Upstate New York
- Hike distance: 0.7 miles out-and-back
Upstate NY, nestled in the beautiful Catskills, is a world’s apart from the hustle and bustle of New York City. There are endless hiking trails in this region, the most impressive being a short trek to the state’s highest waterfall. At 260 feet, Kaaterskill stands strong as the tallest cascading falls in New York. Best of all, this two tiered beauty is easily accessible via a short hike of just over a half mile. Even better, for this hike, you actually get to take advantage of a 2-for-1 deal, as 70 foot Bastion Falls is also on the route.
5. Treasure Falls
- Location: Pagosa Springs, Colorado
- Hike distance: 0.5 miles out-and-back, Moderately steep
Treasure Falls is a dazzling waterfall with an interesting backstory. Local legend says that hidden treasures were buried in an unknown location near the waterfall, hence the unique name. This is one of the easier waterfall hikes in the gorgeous San Juan Wilderness. A short, yet steep 1/2 mile hike through the woods leads you to a gorgeous double tiered, 50 foot waterfall. For those not up or unable to complete the challenge, there are great views from the parking lot. After your hike, soothe your sore muscles in the natural mineral enriched healing waters at The Springs, the world’s deepest hot springs.
