Beautiful Waterfall Hiking Trails

Location:

Supai, AZ – Havasupai Indian Reservation, Grand Canyon

Highlights:

If you’re ready for a bucket-list adventure with a payoff like no other, Havasu Falls is calling. Tucked deep in the Grand Canyon, this turquoise-blue cascade is a desert dream—but you’ll have to earn it with a 10-mile trek to paradise.

Recommended For:

Backpackers, adventure travelers, seasoned hikers, photographers, and waterfall lovers seeking a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

What we Love:

The otherworldly blue-green water, the peaceful oasis at the base of towering red canyon walls, and the feeling of discovery you can only get after a long hike through raw wilderness.

• Hike 10 miles from Hualapai Hilltop to reach Havasu Falls—note that day hikes are not allowed, and permits are required to stay overnight.
• Camp beneath the stars near the falls in the designated campground—book early, as permits sell out fast.
• See the spectacular 100-foot drop of Havasu Falls, framed by red rock and surrounded by cottonwood trees and pools perfect for swimming.
• Choose your journey: go on foot, arrange a mule pack, or take a helicopter flight (but really, hiking is half the magic).

Cost:

Permit fees vary but typically range from $100–$125 per person per night. No day hikes allowed.

Best time to visit:

Spring and fall for cooler temperatures and flowing falls; summer gets hot and crowded.

Local tips:

Train before you go—10 miles each way with your gear is no joke. Bring plenty of water, sun protection, and water shoes for exploring the pools.

Distance:

4 hours and 30 minutes from Flagstaff, AZ to Hualapai Hilltop trailhead.

How to Get to Havasu Falls:

Drive to Hualapai Hilltop (the trailhead) via Route 66 through Peach Springs, then Indian Road 18 for about 60 miles. From there, begin the 10-mile hike down to Supai village and onward to the falls. Reservations and permits must be secured in advance via the Havasupai tribe’s website.

Address:

Havasu Falls, Supai, AZ – Havasupai Indian Reservation

Location:

Yellowstone National Park, WY

Highlights:

If you're chasing the most iconic waterfall in Yellowstone (and maybe the entire West), Lower Falls is the one. Just two hours from Jackson, this jaw-dropping 308-foot waterfall can be seen from multiple epic viewpoints—each better than the last.

Recommended For:

First-time visitors, avid hikers, photographers, and anyone wanting a classic Yellowstone moment that feels straight out of a painting.

What we Love:

The massive plunge into the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, unforgettable views from both rims, and challenging trails that reward you with front-row waterfall magic.

• See the falls from multiple overlooks: Artist Point (west), Grandview Point, Lookout Point, and Inspiration Point (east).
• Hike the Brink of the Lower Falls Trail—about 0.75 miles round-trip, steep with switchbacks, but worth it to stand above the thundering drop.
• Descend Uncle Tom’s Trail for a thigh-burning adventure: 328 steel steps and a 500-foot elevation drop lead to the base of the falls.
• Marvel at the 308-foot vertical drop as the Yellowstone River plummets into a rainbow-filled canyon surrounded by golden rock walls.

Cost:

Included with park admission – $35 per vehicle for a 7-day pass.

Best time to visit:

Late spring to early fall when trails are open, waterfalls are full, and wildflowers color the canyon.

Local tips:

Start early to beat the crowds and get morning light at Artist Point. Uncle Tom’s Trail is strenuous—bring water and take your time coming back up.

Distance:

2 hours from Jackson, WY to Canyon Village in Yellowstone.

How to Get to Lower Falls:

From Jackson, take US-191 North through Grand Teton and into Yellowstone National Park. Follow park signs to Canyon Village. From there, follow South Rim Drive or North Rim Drive to access the various overlooks and trailheads to Lower Falls.

Address:

Lower Falls, Yellowstone National Park, WY

Romantic Waterfall Hikes

Location:

Twin Falls, ID

Highlights:

Ready to be wowed by a waterfall taller than Niagara? Shoshone Falls is just minutes from Twin Falls and serves up a massive 212-foot drop and over 1,000 feet of misty drama on the Snake River.

Recommended For:

Families, road trippers, photographers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking epic views without a long hike.

What we Love:

The powerful spray of the falls, scenic viewpoints just steps from your car, and an adjoining park with everything from trails to swimming spots and family picnic zones.

• Marvel at Shoshone Falls’ 212-foot plunge—taller than Niagara—spilling dramatically into the Snake River Canyon.
• Stroll the Shoshone Falls Trail, an easy path from the parking lot to multiple scenic overlooks with sweeping canyon views.
• Relax at nearby Dierkes Lake, where you’ll find a beach, playground, and spots to swim or paddle after waterfall viewing.
• Enjoy shaded picnic areas with grills, grassy lawns, and the roar of the falls in the background.

Cost:

$5 per vehicle (seasonal fee from March–September).

Best time to visit:

Spring for peak flow (especially April–June); fall for fewer crowds and cooler temps.

Local tips:

Arrive early in peak season—parking fills up fast. Bring a poncho if you want to get close—mist from the falls can be intense on windy days.

Distance:

10 minutes from Twin Falls, ID.

How to Get to Shoshone Falls:

From downtown Twin Falls, head east on Falls Avenue, then turn north onto 3300 East/Shoshone Falls Grade Road. Follow signs to the Shoshone Falls/Dierkes Lake Complex. Plenty of signage and parking available near the main overlook.

Address:

Shoshone Falls, Twin Falls, ID 83301

Location:

Cummins Falls State Park, Cookeville, TN

Highlights:

Looking for a true Tennessee adventure with a waterfall reward? Cummins Falls is a rugged trek through a stunning gorge that ends at a 75-foot cascade—and yes, you can swim in the pool at the base.

Recommended For:

Experienced hikers, adventurous swimmers, families with older kids, and anyone up for a beautiful challenge off the beaten path.

What we Love:

A dramatic drop into a scenic gorge, wading through crystal-clear waters, and capping it all off with a refreshing swim beneath one of the state's tallest waterfalls.

• Hike about 3 miles round-trip through the Tennessee River Gorge on rugged, slippery terrain that includes multiple stream crossings.
• Discover Cummins Falls, a 75-foot multi-tiered waterfall that spills into a cool, wide swimming hole—perfect for a post-hike dip.
• Explore the 211-acre state park, home to forested trails, wildlife, and scenic river views beyond the main falls trail.

Cost:

Free to enter the park; a permit ($6 + fees) is required for gorge access and swimming—available via the park website.

Best time to visit:

Late spring through early fall for swimming; visit in early morning to beat heat and crowds.

Local tips:

Wear water shoes and bring a dry bag—this hike gets wet and slippery. Children under 5 are not allowed in the gorge.

Distance:

1 hour and 20 minutes from Nashville, TN.

How to Get to Cummins Falls:

From Nashville, take I-40 East to Cookeville. Exit at TN-56 North and follow signs to Cummins Falls State Park. Park at the visitor area and check in before starting your hike to the gorge.

Address:

Cummins Falls, Cummins Falls State Park, 390 Cummins Falls Ln, Cookeville, TN 38501

Waterfalls for Families

Location:

Taughannock Falls State Park, Trumansburg, NY

Highlights:

Want to see a waterfall that’s taller than Niagara but way less crowded? Taughannock Falls offers just that—soaring 215 feet into a gorge you can stroll through or look down upon from peaceful rim trails.

Recommended For:

Families, casual hikers, photographers, nature lovers, and anyone exploring New York’s Finger Lakes region.

What we Love:

An easy walk to a jaw-dropping waterfall, the flexibility of scenic rim trails, and panoramic views of the gorge without the tourist rush.

• Walk the flat and easy Gorge Trail (about 0.75 miles one way) to reach the base of Taughannock Falls—a peaceful path perfect for all ages.
• Explore the South Rim Trail, a 1.2-mile route with stunning views into the gorge and fewer crowds—two steep staircases add a bit of challenge.
• Combine the South and North Rim Trails for a scenic loop that circles the gorge and offers views from every angle.
• Admire Taughannock Falls, the tallest single-drop waterfall east of the Rockies, plunging 215 feet into a rugged stone amphitheater.

Cost:

$9 vehicle entry fee.

Best time to visit:

Spring for strong water flow; fall for brilliant foliage along the rim trails.

Local tips:

Arrive early for easy parking and softer lighting for photos. Trails are open year-round and especially scenic after recent rain or snowmelt.

Distance:

1 hour and 15 minutes from Syracuse, NY.

How to Get to Taughannock Falls:

From Syracuse, take I-81 South to NY-13 South toward Ithaca. Continue on NY-89 North along Cayuga Lake. Follow signs to Taughannock Falls State Park. Trailheads for the gorge and rim trails are clearly marked with ample parking.

Address:

Taughannock Falls, Taughannock Falls State Park, 1740 Taughannock Blvd, Trumansburg, NY 14886

Location:

Phillip Burton Wilderness, near Bolinas, CA

Highlights:

Want to see a waterfall that flows straight onto the sand? Alamere Falls is one of the few tidefalls in the U.S., and the 13-mile round-trip hike to get there is half the adventure.

Recommended For:

Experienced hikers, coastal adventurers, photographers, and anyone up for a scenic challenge with an unforgettable oceanfront payoff.

What we Love:

A rare waterfall tumbling onto Wildcat Beach, sweeping coastal views, and a shaded trail through wilderness that feels far from the everyday.

• Hike the 13-mile round-trip trail to Alamere Falls through Point Reyes National Seashore—most of it shaded and serene, with two steeper sections to push through.
• Discover the falls as they spill over a 30-foot cliff directly onto Wildcat Beach—perfect for photos, picnics, and ocean air.
• Enjoy scenic forest, wildflowers, and ocean views along the trail—just be prepared for the distance and popularity of the route.

Cost:

Free (no park entrance fee).

Best time to visit:

Spring for wildflowers and manageable crowds; weekdays year-round for a quieter experience.

Local tips:

Start early to beat the crowds and secure parking. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection—and check tide tables if you plan to explore the beach.

Distance:

1 hour and 30 minutes from San Francisco, CA.

How to Get to Alamere Falls:

From San Francisco, take US-101 North to CA-1 North toward Olema. Turn left onto Bear Valley Road and follow signs to the Palomarin Trailhead near Bolinas. Parking fills up fast—arrive early. The trail to Alamere Falls begins from here and is well-marked.

Address:

Alamere Falls, Phillip Burton Wilderness, Bolinas, CA 94924

Location:

Chattahoochee National Forest, near Dawsonville, GA

Highlights:

If you're looking for a grand waterfall that makes your heart race both from the view and the climb, Amicalola Falls is a must-see. Just 90 minutes from Atlanta, it’s the tallest waterfall in Georgia and offers epic views from top to bottom.

Recommended For:

Hikers, photographers, families, and anyone ready to take on a stair-filled challenge with a major scenic payoff.

What we Love:

Multiple cascades dropping 730 feet, misty bridges over rushing water, and panoramic mountain views from the top of the falls.

• Hike the 1-mile Amicalola Falls Trail to the crest of the falls for sweeping views—then descend a dramatic staircase and bridges right alongside the rushing water.
• Experience one of the Southeast’s most iconic waterfalls with plenty of photo stops and rest benches along the way.
• Explore the surrounding state park with visitor centers, camping, picnic areas, and even access to the Appalachian Trail approach route.

Cost:

$5 Georgia State Park daily parking fee.

Best time to visit:

Spring for lush greenery and strong water flow; fall for crisp air and stunning foliage.

Local tips:

Arrive early on weekends to avoid crowds. The staircase has over 600 steps—wear comfortable shoes and pace yourself!

Distance:

1 hour and 30 minutes from Atlanta, GA.

How to Get to Amicalola Falls:

From Atlanta, take GA-400 North to GA-136 West, then follow signs to Amicalola Falls State Park. The trailhead for the falls is located near the visitor center with parking nearby.

Address:

Amicalola Falls, 418 Amicalola Falls State Park Rd, Dawsonville, GA 30534

Trails For Photographers

Location:

Harts Location, NH – Crawford Notch State Park

Highlights:

Ready to be awed by one of New Hampshire’s tallest and most scenic waterfalls? Arethusa Falls is a gem at the end of a forested trail in the heart of the White Mountains—just challenging enough to feel like a real adventure.

Recommended For:

Families with older kids, hikers, nature photographers, and waterfall seekers exploring the White Mountains.

What we Love:

A gorgeous 160-foot cascade tucked into the forest, a rewarding hike through classic New England wilderness, and plenty of rock slabs to sit and enjoy the view once you arrive.

• Hike the 1.5-mile Arethusa Falls Trail (3 miles round-trip) through rugged White Mountain terrain with a 900-foot elevation gain.
• Admire one of New Hampshire’s highest waterfalls, plunging down a sheer rock face surrounded by hardwood forest and mossy boulders.
• Explore the Crawford Notch area further with side trails, scenic train rides, or nearby hikes like Frankenstein Cliff for elevated views.

Cost:

Free parking at the trailhead lot (first-come, first-served).

Best time to visit:

Late spring through early fall for easy trail access; fall offers vibrant foliage and fewer bugs.

Local tips:

Wear sturdy hiking shoes—rocks and roots are common. Start early, especially on weekends, as the lot fills quickly.

Distance:

2 hours and 30 minutes from Boston, MA.

How to Get to Arethusa Falls:

From Boston, take I-93 North to US-302 West through Bartlett. Look for the Arethusa Falls Trailhead parking lot near the end of Crawford Notch State Park in Harts Location. Trail signs are well-marked.

Address:

Arethusa Falls, Crawford Notch State Park, Harts Location, NH

Location:

South of Hiawassee, near Helen, GA

Highlights:

If you're searching for a peaceful forest walk with waterfalls and wildflowers, DeSoto Falls Trail is a perfect pick. Just under two hours from Atlanta, it’s a gentle out-and-back hike that rewards you with not one—but two—lovely cascades.

Recommended For:

Families, casual hikers, photographers, and nature lovers looking for a shady, relaxing trail with rewarding views.

What we Love:

Tranquil streams, lush rhododendrons, and two scenic waterfalls surrounded by peaceful woodland make this an ideal Georgia day hike.

• Hike the 2.2-mile DeSoto Falls Trail (round-trip), a mostly flat and shaded trail through Chattahoochee National Forest.
• Visit two distinct waterfalls—Lower and Upper DeSoto Falls—with easy access to viewing platforms and creekside rests.
• Relax at the Upper Falls overlook, which doubles as a scenic picnic spot surrounded by whispering pines and mountain laurel.

Cost:

$5 day-use parking fee.

Best time to visit:

Spring and early summer for blooming rhododendrons and full creek flow; fall for colorful foliage and crisp weather.

Local tips:

Keep kids and pets out of the water—rocks are slippery and swimming is not permitted. Arrive early for quieter trails, especially on weekends.

Distance:

1 hour and 45 minutes from Atlanta, GA.

How to Get to DeSoto Falls Trail:

From Atlanta, take GA-400 North to US-19/129 North toward Dahlonega. Continue north to the DeSoto Falls Recreation Area entrance, just south of Neels Gap. Parking is available near the trailhead.

Address:

DeSoto Falls Trail, Chattahoochee National Forest, near Helen, GA

Location:

Burgess Falls State Park, Sparta, TN

Highlights:

If you want a big waterfall payoff without a massive hike, Burgess Falls delivers. Just 90 minutes from Nashville, this trail leads you past four dramatic waterfalls with a final 130-foot plunge into a dramatic gorge.

Recommended For:

Waterfall lovers, hikers looking for a short challenge, photographers, and families with older kids ready for a bit of adventure.

What we Love:

A trail that puts you right next to the action—four stunning waterfalls dropping over 250 feet total, including one spectacular 130-foot cascade at the end of the gorge.

• Follow the 1.5-mile River Trail/Service Road Loop, a steep and sometimes rugged path that runs alongside the Falling Water River and past a series of cascades.
• Admire the final and most dramatic drop—Burgess Falls plunges 130 feet into a gorge surrounded by lush forest and rock cliffs.
• Descend rustic stairs near the end of the trail to get a closer view at the base (note that this portion may be seasonally restricted due to conditions).

Cost:

Free park admission and parking.

Best time to visit:

Spring and early summer for powerful flow; fall for great colors and cooler hiking temps.

Local tips:

This trail gets crowded on weekends—arrive early or visit on a weekday. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water for the steep climb out of the gorge.

Distance:

1 hour and 30 minutes from Nashville, TN.

How to Get to Burgess Falls:

From Nashville, take I-40 East to Exit 280 toward Baxter. Follow TN-56 South and then TN-135 South into Burgess Falls State Park. The trailhead is clearly marked within the park’s main parking area.

Address:

Burgess Falls, Burgess Falls State Park, 4000 Burgess Falls Dr, Sparta, TN 38583