American Waterfalls
There are many wonderful places all across the United States. However, the ones that are given to us by nature need to be appreciated even more. In particular, we believe that the waterfalls fall to the back of the list every time we decide what to do on vacation! Our beautiful country has numerous beautiful waterfalls that are spread out all over the map, yet not many of us know about or acknowledge them.
Think about it in these terms. Instead of using up our vacation days to yet again visit a busy city, which is undoubtedly gorgeous or interesting, we should turn to what nature has to offer us too. Convert some of our metropolis vacations to natural ones, which will help us relax, get closer to nature and its beauties, and also help keep us in shape.
By going on a hike to some of these beautiful waterfalls, not only will we get to explore parts of the states that we would not have gotten the chance to otherwise, but also see some of the greatest views our country has to offer. Do not fret, if you are not so keen on camping, most of these waterfalls are close to cities and the hikes are not that hard to tackle.
We have gathered ten of the most beautiful waterfalls in America that you definitely have to put on your bucket list! Read our list to discover which one you can integrate into your travel plans next!
Whitewater Falls, North Carolina
Reaching an impressive 811 feet, Whitewater Falls is the tallest waterfall in the Eastern United States. You can find it in the beautiful state of North Carolina, close to the town of Cashiers but also close enough to Asheville.
The beauty of this waterfall lies not only in its impressive water show but also in the dance of the water as the waterfall is layered, creating many tiers of falls that let the water hit the judged edges of the water. You can observe the amazing show of nature from one of the two observation decks: you can take a short hike towards the upper one or you can go down the 154 steps towards the second one.
Many believe that the lower deck offers a more spectacular view of the waterfall, yet we can tell you now that whichever one you choose the views are going to stay with you for a lifetime.
Union Falls, Wyoming
You may have to hike a little bit more for this one, but we guarantee it is worth it. To get to Union Falls and back you will have to walk about 15 miles for a round-about trip. However, it is well worth it!
This waterfall is a little gem that can be found in Yellowstone National Park, yet not many people know about it. It may be because of the rugged terrain you will encounter if you choose to hike towards it, but the view that will greet you at the end is splendid. The waterfall is truly beautiful, the way the water travels down is mesmerizing and we can guarantee that you will love every minute of it.
Sometimes, long hikes can be exhausting, so make sure you are well prepared, with plenty of water, snacks, and appropriate hiking shoes. They will make admiring the natural beauty of the national park less stressful and believe us, you do not want to deal with the blisters.
Havasu Falls, Arizona
Havasu Falls may not be as impressive in size and magnitude, like other waterfalls present on our list here, but it makes up for its beauty. The ocean blue pool contrasts with the orange limestone creating a fairytale-like picture. Combined with the fact that the way it was formed is a mystery, it keeps on adding reasons for which it should be present on our list!
If you found yourself as mesmerized by this gorgeous picture as we were, you can visit Havasu Falls all year round! Found in the Havasupai Indian Reservation in the Grand Canyon, it is quite easy to reach the reservation. However, prepare yourself for quite a long hike on remote trails. Nothing too complicated, but is noteworthy in case you find yourself in the area and decide upon a spontaneous visit.
Make sure you are prepared for this one, both the trail and the view will leave you breathless!
Nugget Falls, Alaska
We all know that location is one of the most important things, especially when we want to take some spectacular pictures with our loved ones! Thus, Nugget Falls is one of the most amazing places as it is located at the end of the Mendenhall Glacier, one of the most stunning locations in Alaska. If you choose to go here on vacation you can shoot two birds with one stone and give them both a visit!
What makes this waterfall so amazing is the fact that all of its falls are made of a glacial creek and the water finds itself falling into the newly formed Mendenhall Lake. To get there all the water has to run down a two-tiered drop, and so it creates an amazing view. You can visit the waterfall easily, by taking the graveled path, or you can include the region and the glacier into your trip, and take one of the excursions alongside the Juneau shore or a tour of the Mendenhall Lake.
Whichever way you decide to do it, mother nature will repay you with some stunning memories that you are bound to come back to every year from now!
Tahquamenon Falls, Michigan
You can find them in the town of Paradise, and let us tell you, they are not exaggerating when they say that this place is right out of paradise. Tahquamenon Falls is famous for its splendor and neither of the two parts (as the waterfall is split in two) disappoints, but rather they tackle two different paintings that you will be thankful to explore.
You can go to the Upper Fall in order to admire the cascades that look rusty due to the tannins from the cedar trees that surround the stream. And then you can head to the Lower Fall and see the beautiful picture for yourself created by the smaller five waterfalls that tumble down to a freshwater island.
The location in Tahquamenon Falls State Park is wonderful, as, besides this famous waterfall, it also offers numerous trails, camping spots, and winter sports!
Burney Falls, California
Having been named by National Geographic as one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Northern California, there are bound to be a lot of skeptics around. However, this one is worth all the hype it gets! The view it creates is beautiful and it is not only due to its impressive height but also because of the way the falls are laid out.
With the main 260 feet fall in the middle, flanked by numerous underlying streams on each side, the image created is stunning and one of the most unique ones you can find in the state. If you do not believe us, go pay a visit and we dare you to say the scenery did not leave a lasting impression.
Bridalveil Fall, Califonia
Also known as the Bridalveil Fall, this one is as spectacular from afar as it is from up close. The waterfall is well known by everyone who has ever heard of Yosemite Park, and it has become iconic for the natural reservation. Its position is what makes it so famous, as it is opposite to the El Capitan, together forming the so-called “Gates of the Yosemite Valley”.
We know that you cannot get more quintessential than it is now when you think of Yosemite Park and we think you should definitely integrate it into a longer trip to LA or San Francisco. It is not far away and it’s definitely worth visiting, alongside the rest of the park. If you do not have the time, the cascade is only 10 minutes away from the main parking lot.
Waimoku Falls, Hawaii
Haleakala National Park Kipahulu is the home of this wonderful waterfall, but surprisingly it is not the main attraction. Here the 1.8-mile walk down a scenic trail shares the spotlight with this 400 feet Waimoku cascade. The scenic hike on the Pipiwai trail will take you along a number of smaller waterfalls and bamboo forests, all encased in a wonderful tropical rainforest.
At the end of the trail, you will find yourself at the base of the cascade, yet you cannot get closer than that to the waterfall due to safety concerns. The small trail is known for being maintained all year round, and together with the not so harsh incline, it is perfect for visitors of all ages, so you do not have to worry about the young members of the family.
Niagara Falls
It is not called the king of the waterfalls for no reason! Being the biggest waterfall in the US, it holds the record for the tallest and widest, and truly the most spectacular. If you do not believe us, ask some of the millions of tourists that travel to see it every year!
People travel far and wide to be able to see this natural beauty, yet some of our own people have not yet seen it. If you would have to choose only one to add to your bucket list, this one is definitely worth it! Niagara Falls is actually made up of three falls, two on the American side and one on the Canadian side.
Whichever side you find yourself on, this one is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for some people, so you definitely have to visit it if you get the chance!
Which one did you fall in love with?
It is hard to choose, but if you loved these natural beauties, we guarantee you will love these historical towns too.
