20+ Incredible Waterfalls to Add to your Bucket List
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16. Niagara Falls
- Location: Upstate New York
- Ways to see the Falls: Observation tower at Prospect Point Park, Cave of the Winds, Maid of the Mist boat tour, Hiking at Niagara Falls State Park
New York’s Niagara Falls is one of the most recognizable waterfalls in the world. Surprisingly, it is not one of the official wonders of the world. Nonetheless, it is often called one of the 8th world wonders. The combined 3 falls (American, Horseshoe & Bridal Veil) have the highest flow rate of any American waterfall. There are many ways to experience Niagara. Cave of the Winds is definitely the most fun experience for new visitors. You will get to don a poncho and sandals and enjoy an intense up close and personal experience – be aware – you will get soaked!
17. Whitewater Falls
- Location: Western North Carolina
- Hike required: About a quarter of a mile
At 811 feet, Whitewater Falls stands magnificent as the tallest waterfall east of the Rockies. The Upper half (located in NC) plunges 411 feet and the lower (located in SC) 400 feet, and together, they are a powerful force. The falls is located near the NC/SC border. A paved quarter of a mile trail to an observing area is located on the North Carolina side about an hour from Asheville. Although short, the trail is quite steep and consists of numerous staircases. If you are up for a workout, this is one of the most gorgeous waterfalls you will find in the Southeast!
18. Laurel Falls
- Location: Smoky Mountains National Park (near Gatlinburg)
- Hike required: 1.2 miles out-and-back
Laurel Falls is one of the most popular trails in the Smokies. This is no surprise as it is easy to access, features an 80 foot waterfall, and requires no more than a moderate trek. The paved trail is a little over a mile each way and moderately steep. Many black bears call the Smokies home. In fact, the park is home to the densest concentration of bears anywhere (2 black bears occupy every square mile! Keep in mind that this trail is a bear hotspot. While it’s an amazing experience to see a Black bear in its’ natural habitat, you need to keep your distance!
19. Tom’s Creek Falls
- Location: Western North Carolina
- Hike required: 0.5 miles out-and-back
Hidden in Western North Carolina in a secluded location, The Tom’s Creek waterfall is a must for anyone seeking blissful serenity. The hike to this hidden gem is easy and relaxing: the perfect choice for casual walkers and families. It’s 60 feet tall and especially gorgeous after a big rainstorm, although worth visiting anytime of the year. This trail is most well-known for an old mica mine. Today, you can see beautiful mica embedded in the rocks. On a sunny day, the mica glistens like gemstones.
20. Chapman Falls
- Location: East Haddam, Connecticut
- Hike distance: A mere 5 minutes
Devil’s Hopyard State Park is a gorgeous isolated park in East Haddam, Connecticut. This part of the state is known for its’ many parks and beautiful fall foliage. This park remains surprisingly serene despite being home to a 60 foot waterfall and a covered bridge. Per local legend, the round holes near Chapman Falls are said to be a result of the devil hopping in the area, and hence, the park’s odd name. Do consider a hike after viewing the waterfall. Too many guests forget about the wonderful trail system here.
