Best Waterfalls in the U.S.

California

Home to some of the most famous waterfalls in the country, California’s beautiful natural landscapes are home to some incredible sights.

• Yosemite Falls:  At 2,245 feet, Yosemite Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in the world. Feeling up to a challenge? Try the full-day hike all the way to the top.
• Burney Falls: This waterfall is the centerpiece of California’s McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park. Stop by during Columbus Day weekend for the park’s annual Heritage Day celebration featuring activities demonstrating life in the 19^th century.
• McWay Falls: This 80-foot drop might not be the tallest on this list, but it’s one of the most striking: the water spills directly onto the beach in a secluded Big Sur cove. Be aware of potential road closures on the Pacific Coast Highway due to storm damage.

North Carolina and Tennessee: Great Smoky Mountains

These waterfalls in the southern United States are tucked into the Great Smoky Mountains, just waiting to be found.

• Laurel Falls (TN): This beautiful waterfall is located at the end of a short, 2.6-mile hike in Great Smoky Mountain National Park. Take in the gorgeous mountain forest landscapes and reconnect with nature.
• Looking Glass Falls (NC): If you’re looking for an accessible waterfall view in North Carolina, check out the Looking Glass Falls outside of Asheville, which you can see from the road. You can also wade and swim in the creek if it’s a hot day.
• Ramsey Cascades (TN): Ready for a full day of hiking? Take a 5- to 7-hour trip up and back to these stunning falls. You’ll be climbing over 2000 feet of elevation, so be prepared!

Hawaii

Enjoy the tropical breeze and take a break from the beach to visit these scenic waterfalls.

• ‘Akaka Falls (Big Island): ʻAkaka Falls State Park is home to this 442-foot cascade. From the parking lot, it’s about a half-mile trek to the falls. You can also see the nearby Kahuna Falls on the same trail.
• Waimoku Falls (Maui):  While traveling along the famous Road to Hana, stop at the Pipiwai Trail and hike up to Waimoku Falls. Keep an eye out for the bamboo forest along the way.
• Manawaiopuna Falls (Kauai): You’ll need to take a helicopter tour to reach this 400-foot drop made famous as a shooting location in “Jurassic Park.” It may seem stressful, but it’s worth the trip!

Midwest: Minnesota and Michigan

You can find waterfalls even in the typically flat Midwest.

• Minnehaha Falls (MN):  When looking at this beautiful 53-foot waterfall, you might forget you’re still within Minneapolis’s city limits. Check out the nearby Minnehaha Falls Pergola Garden to take in a wide variety of plants and flowers.
• Tahquamenon Falls (MI): One of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi, surrounded by wilderness. Don’t worry about the cloudy color and foamy water, it’s just residue from the nearby trees and the river’s naturally soft water.

Southwest and West

The beauty of these waterfalls stands starkly against the rocky, desert atmosphere of the western U.S.

• Havasu Falls (AZ): These Grand Canyon falls sit atop a brilliant pool of turquoise water. Be aware of visiting restrictions. Trips require a permit from the Havasupai Indian Reservation and a one-night stay at the campground or lodge.
• Shoshone Falls (ID): Known as “the Niagara of the West,” Shoshone Falls stands 212 feet tall and 900 feet wide, making it one of the U.S.’s largest natural wonders.

Planning tips for your waterfall adventure

Picked out your favorite waterfall to visit first? Don’t leave without checking these travel tips to ensure a safe and successful trip.

• When to go: No one wants to arrive at a waterfall only to find a tiny trickle of water. To see the most spectacular view possible, plan to visit in the spring as the snow feeding the waterfalls begins to melt. 
• How to prepare: Make sure you have good walking or hiking shoes that can handle slippery surfaces. Keep water and food on you, especially if you’re going on a longer hike. Don’t forget a swimsuit and a towel in case you’re allowed to take a dip.
• What to check: Before heading out on the trail, triple-check current conditions and operating hours for trails and parks. Don’t travel out of your way to a hike only to discover the trail is closed or conditions are too dangerous for the public. Some waterfalls require permits or reservations, while others are fine to show up day-of.
• Use Citi Travel^® to plan and book: Citi Travel^® can help you find great deals on lodging and plane tickets, so you can spend less time worrying about logistics and more time enjoying the wonders of nature.

Book your trip to see America’s waterfalls

Visiting one of America’s great waterfalls is a fantastic way to connect with nature, your family and the spirit of the country. Plan your trip with Citi Travel for a stress-free experience that can help make your trip a memorable one.

Disclosure: This article is for educational purposes. It is not intended to provide legal, investment, or financial advice and is not a substitute for professional advice. It does not indicate the availability of any Citi product or service. For advice about your specific circumstances, you should consult a qualified professional.

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