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Waterfalls in the USA are a spectacular natural treasure, attracting visitors from all over the world. Each offers a unique experience, whether the sheer power of water plummeting hundreds of feet or the serene beauty of hidden cascades in rich forests. Nature enthusiasts, photographers and adventure seekers are captivated by these natural wonders. These waterfalls showcase the American wilderness’s diverse geography and mesmerizing beauty.
Top 10 Waterfalls In The USA
Here is a list of the top 10 waterfalls in the USA, each of which showcases breathtaking, pleasing and isolated features:
1. Niagara Falls, New York
Photo: Nandaro / Wikimedia Commons
Niagara Falls is one of the world’s most famous and influential waterfalls, straddling the US-Canada border in New York. With a combined height of 167 feet, the falls consist of three parts. These are the Horseshoe, American and Bridal Veil Falls. Tourists can experience the sheer force of the water up close on the Maid of the Mist boat tour. After exploring the falls, visitors can head to nearby Lake Ontario. This is the home to some of the best waterfalls in the USA, perfect for relaxing by the water after a thrilling waterfall experience.
Things To Do: Boat tours, Cave of the Winds, observation deck, and nightly light shows.
Entry Fees: Free; Maid of the Mist costs ₹2,080 – ₹2,500
How To Reach: 20 minutes from Buffalo, accessible by car, train or shuttle
2. Yosemite Falls, California
Photo: Diliff / Wikimedia Commons
Yosemite Falls is the tallest waterfall in North America, with a drop of 2,425 feet. It is located in Yosemite National Park and features three sections: the Upper Yosemite Falls, Middle Floods, and Lower Yosemite Falls. The falls peak in spring when snowmelt causes the water flow to surge. While exploring the majestic falls, visitors can also enjoy nearby famous waterfalls on California’s coast. It provides a relaxing contrast to the rugged mountainous scenery of Yosemite. It offers remarkable views and charming hikes, with the experience best seen in spring when the water flow is at its peak.
Things To Do: Hike to the falls, visit Glacier Point and enjoy ranger activities
Entry Fees: ₹2,900 per vehicle (7 day pass)
How To Reach: 3.5 hours from Highway 140 or 120 from San Francisco
3. Multnomah Falls, Oregon
Photo: Apollomelos / Wikimedia Commons
Multnomah Falls in the Columbia River Gorge, is a remarkable two-tier waterfall that drops 620 feet. The falls are easily accessible from the Historic Columbia River Highway, one of the most photographed sites in the region. A delightful bridge, Benson Bridge, spans the lower tier, offering incredible views. For those exploring the Pacific Northwest, nearby waterfalls along Oregon’s rugged coast are some of the best waterfalls in the US, where visitors can enjoy rich forests and coastal serenity.
Things To Do: Hike to Benson Bridge, explore nearby trails and visit Multnomah Falls Lodge
Entry Fees: Free
How To Reach: 30 minutes from Portland via Historic Columbia River Highway
4. Havasu Falls, Arizona
Photo: Stolz Gary M, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service / Wikimedia Commons
Havasu Falls is located in the Havasupai Indian Reservation in the Grand Canyon, renowned for its striking blue-green water. The falls drop 100 feet into turquoise pools surrounded by red rock, creating a tropical oasis in the desert. Reaching the falls requires a challenging hike or helicopter ride, but it’s well worth the effort. Though Arizona is not known for typical waterfalls, the isolated setting of Havasu Falls is worth-visiting. It is with its sandy shores and emerald waters, offering a serene, waterfall-like atmosphere in a desert landscape.
Things To Do: Hike, swim, camp, and capture the landscape
Entry Fees: ₹8,300 per person (permits required)
How To Reach: A 10-mile hike from Hualapai Hilltop, 4 – 5 hours from Flagstaff
5. Shoshone Falls, Idaho
Photo: Famartin / Wikimedia Commons
Shoshone Falls, located near Twin Falls, Idaho, is often called the “Niagara of the West” and stands 212 feet taller than Niagara Falls. The waterfall is most impressive in spring when the water flows peak, making it one of the most famous waterfalls in the US. The surrounding park offers picnic areas and scenic viewpoints for visitors. Although Idaho is not widely known for waterfalls, the nearby Snake River provides peaceful riverside spots. This makes it a perfect destination for both waterfall viewing and relaxing by the river.
Things To Do: Scenic views, Snake River Canyon trails, and picnicking
Entry Fees: ₹250 per vehicle
How To Reach: Near Twin Falls, 2 hours from Boise via US Highway 93
6. Bridalveil Fall, California
Photo: Pimlico27 / Wikimedia Commons
Bridalveil Fall is one of the first waterfalls visitors encounter when entering Yosemite Valley. At 620 feet, the falls flow year-round, creating a misty veil seen from various spots in the park. The waterfall is a popular destination for photographers due to its natural appearance, especially in the spring when water levels peak. Visitors to California can explore some of the best waterfalls in the US along the state’s coastline. It combines the calm allure of the ocean with the breathtaking pleasure of Yosemite.
Things To Do: Easy hikes, photography, and exploring Yosemite Valley
Entry Fees: ₹2,900 per vehicle (7 day pass)
How To Reach: 4 hours from San Francisco via Yosemite Valley
7. Ruby Falls, Tennessee
Photo: Brian Stansberry / Wikimedia Commons
Ruby Falls is an underground waterfall inside Lookout Mountain near Chattanooga, Tennessee. It is the tallest and deepest underground waterfall in the US, standing 145 feet tall. Visitors take guided tours through caves to reach the falls, where coloured lights illuminate the water, creating a magical atmosphere. Tennessee is home to several popular waterfalls along its lakes and rivers, providing a relaxing way to unwind after an adventurous visit to Ruby Falls. Visitors can take guided cave tours to explore the remarkable underground falls, illuminated by colourful lights, offering a unique and magical experience.
Things To Do: Guided cave tours, Lookout Mountain exploration
Entry Fees: ₹2,080 per adult
How To Reach: Near Chattanooga, accessible by car
8. Akaka Falls, Hawaii
Photo: brewbooks / Wikimedia Commons
Akaka Falls is a stunning 442-foot waterfall on the Big Island of Hawaii, surrounded by a lush tropical rainforest. Visitors can access the falls via a short, scenic loop trail that takes them through vibrant vegetation and provides breathtaking views. Hawaii is famous for its beautiful, pristine waterfalls, and the Big Island is no exception. After enjoying the views of Akaka Falls, visitors can relax at other nearby waterfalls, where the peaceful ocean complements the island’s natural beauty. The waterfalls, lush greenery and serene ocean make this location a truly peaceful and picturesque destination.
Things To Do: Scenic loop trail, photography, and Hamakua Coast exploration
Entry Fees: ₹415 per vehicle
How To Reach: 11 miles from Hilo via Route 19
9. Burney Falls, California
Photo: Saxena ashes / Wikimedia Commons
Burney Falls, located in McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park in Northern California, is often called the “eighth wonder of the world.” The falls flood over 129 feet of volcanic rock, creating a breathtaking sight. The surrounding park offers scenic trails, picnic spots, and opportunities for photography. California’s coastline, home to some of the most famous waterfalls in the USA, is a great spot for both exploring the waterfalls along the Pacific. With waterfalls that flow all year and its beautiful scenery, it offers hiking trails, picnic spots, and great photo opportunities.
Things To Do: Hiking, swimming, and photography
Entry Fees: ₹830 per vehicle
How To Reach: 1.5 hours from Redding via Highway 299
10. Fall Creek Falls, Tennessee
Photo: RL0919 / Wikimedia Commons
Fall Creek Falls, located within Fall Creek Falls State Park, is one of the tallest waterfalls in the eastern United States. The 256-foot waterfall is surrounded by thick forests with many hiking trails, making it a favourite place for nature lovers. Tennessee’s rivers and lakes are home to several famous waterfalls, allowing visitors to relax and enjoy the state’s natural beauty after a visit to the magnificent Fall Creek Falls. It offers charming hiking trails, picnic spots and picturesque views, making it a popular destination for nature lovers.
Things To Do: Hiking, fishing, and seasonal activities like horseback riding
Entry Fees: ₹415 per vehicle
How To Reach: 2 hours from Nashville via Highway 111
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Waterfalls in the USA offer some of the most stunning natural landscapes. It ranges from the towering heights of Yosemite Falls to the underground and pleasing Ruby Falls. Whether hiking through majestic national parks or exploring hidden gems, these waterfalls provide unforgettable experiences. For a seamless adventure, consider booking a tour with TripXL, ensuring you make the most of your visit to these remarkable destinations.
Cover Photo: David Dugan / Wikimedia Commons
