19 Of The Tallest Waterfalls In America Are Sure To Leave You Breathless
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Sarah McCosham
Author
There’s something inherently magical about waterfalls. Whether you’re reveling in the grandeur of the largest waterfall in the U.S., or simply taking in a babbling little cascade while on a hike, waterfalls are extraordinary natural wonders that really must be experienced in person. Happily, there are numerous bucket-list-worthy waterfalls across the country, so no matter which state you call home, you’re guaranteed to be close to one of these wondrous falls. Today we’re taking a tour of the tallest waterfalls in America. These are immense and commanding cascades sure to leave you breathless; fully immersed in a beautiful moment of complete awe and wonder.
For an interactive experience, we’ve partnered with our friends over at Roadtrippers so you can better plan your trip. Check out the map below!
The 19 Tallest Waterfalls Across America Are Sure To Leave You Breathless on Roadtrippers
Yosemite Falls, California, USA
California is full of spectacular waterfalls (and even firefalls!), and while each is extraordinary, there’s one world-famous waterfall that’s truly on another level. Yosemite Falls isn’t just the largest waterfall in California, it's the tallest waterfall in all of North America. Yosemite is the fifth-largest waterfall in the entire world, in fact, dropping a total of 2,425 jaw-dropping feet from the top of the upper fall to the base of the lower fall. Seeing it with your own eyes is definitely an experience worth seeking out.
Palouse Falls, Washington 99143, USA
Quite possibly the most extraordinary waterfall in the country, Palouse Falls looks like something out of a fantasy. This waterfall is really a package deal; located in Palouse Falls State Park in southeastern Washington, the eponymous falls thunders over a chiseled, 200-foot basalt gorge, sending a spectacular stream of spray to all in its wake. It's an immensely grand scene that's worthy of the falls' title as the official state waterfall of Washington.
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Multnomah Falls, Oregon, USA
Mighty Multnomah Falls is a vision; a sublime sensory experience. This 611-foot-tall, roaring waterfall is in a league all its own; and while the Columbia River Gorge is home to over 90 waterfalls on the Oregon side alone, Multnomah truly is its crown jewel.
Shoshone Falls, Idaho 83341, USA
Shoshone Falls is Idaho's most iconic waterfall, boasting falls that are higher than Niagara's. The sight of this cascade is downright awe-inspiring, and a favorite among ardent waterfall chasers. The best place to view the falls is from the overlook in the eponymous Shoshone Falls Park during the spring; however, Shoshone Falls truly is a sublime sight any time of the year, and it's known for leaving spectators speechless.
Upper Falls of the Yellowstone River, Wyoming 82190, USA
Yellowstone National Park is a national treasure and a waterfall chaser's playground. The national park is home to upwards of 45 glorious cascades, the tallest and most visited of which is Lower Falls. This waterfall is a vision; it cascades down from a height of 308 feet and is nearly twice as high as Niagara Falls. And Lower Falls also has something Niagara doesn't have: a scenic location at the head of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River. This prime location sets the stage for a bold and breathtaking view that's truly bucket-list-worthy.
Lower Calf Creek Falls, Utah 84716, USA
Located at Utah's Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument, you'll find a hidden oasis with a duo of dazzling waterfalls: Upper Calf Creek Falls and Lower Calf Creek Falls. The latter is the larger of the two; a 126-foot waterfall that rushes into a resplendent cerulean pool. The hike to these falls is as wow-worthy as the falls themselves, so take your time and allow yourself to feel the immense beauty of Utah's treasured Grand Staircase-Escalante natural area.
Havasu Falls, Arizona, USA
Located in the arid Arizona desert, within the red, rocky walls of the Grand Canyon, you'll find a pristine little oasis with clear, azure waters and an abundant, rushing waterfall. While the Grand Canyon gets all the credit in terms of Arizona's most spectacular natural wonders, Havasu Falls is a total showstopper. Right next to Grand Canyon National Park, the falls are located at the base of Havasu Canyon on the Havasupai Indian Reservation. Havasu Falls is just under 100 feet tall and its powerful cascade spills into its iconic aquamarine waters -- caused by a series of chemical reactions -- below. It's one of the most startlingly sublime natural spectacles in the country; an experience to which pictures simply cannot do justice.
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Fall Creek Falls, Tennessee 37367, USA
Tennessee is a state that's rife with waterfalls, from the cascades that stud the Mississippi to the cavernous expanse of the Great Smoky Mountains. The entire state is known for its natural beauty, of course, but it’s those incredible natural water features that really make their mark. Fall Creek Falls State Park is the most-visited state park in the state, and for good reason: it’s the home of the tallest waterfall in the state of Tennessee, the eponymous Fall Creek Falls. At a commanding 256 feet tall, Fall Creek Falls is not only the highest waterfall in the park, but also the eastern United States. It's a dazzling vision sure to delight even the hardest-to-please adventurer seekers.
Raven Cliff Falls, South Carolina 29635, USA
This 420-foot waterfall in South Carolina cascades gracefully down Raven Cliff Mountain and into the rolling highland hills below. The largest waterfall in The Palmetto State, Raven Cliff Falls is absolutely spectacular and wholly, wondrously unique. While the trek to this commanding cascade is admittedly a bit advanced, your efforts will be well-rewarded upon beholding the beauty that is Raven Cliff Falls.
Dry Falls, North Carolina 28741, USA
There's no waterfall quite like the majestic Dry Falls, a 75-foot beauty in North Carolina. Contrary to its moniker, Dry Falls is not dry at all; the waterfall gets its name from the unique opportunity it affords visitors to walk behind it and remain relatively dry. (However, during or after a hard rain you can expect to feel the spray created by the impact of the water on the ledge in front of the path!) This famously popular waterfall truly is one of a kind, and you'll want to bring a camera because the photo ops here are phenomenal.
Yahoo Falls, Kentucky 42653, USA
Cumberland Falls gets all the attention in the Bluegrass State, but Yahoo Falls is equally resplendent. At 113 feet, this waterfall is the tallest in Kentucky, and it's nestled in the wondrous Daniel Boone National Forest. The Yahoo Falls Trail is located in the beautiful Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area near Whitley City in McCreary County, an area avid hikers know and love. Kentucky is a humble place of untold beauty and wonder, and Yahoo Falls is one of the state's true stars.
High Falls, Tettegouche State Park, 5702 MN-61, Silver Bay, MN 55614, USA
Located on the Minnesota/Canada border, High Falls is 120 feet of pure power that will leave you completely spellbound. The 1.2-mile hike to access this waterfall is almost as swoon-worthy as the falls themselves, too. A well-marked trail that's perfect for all skill levels, the hike ends at a scenic overlook. Just prepare to be dazzled: there is no sight quite like the rushing waters of the High Falls as they tumble over the cliff on their way to Lake Superior.
St Louis Canyon Falls, Bluff Trail, Oglesby, IL 61348, USA
Starved Rock State Park is home to myriad canyons and waterfalls, thanks to melting glaciers that carved sandstone canyons a long, long time ago. Every spring, these falls come to life, rushing gloriously through the gorges and delighting all who come across them. There are nearly 20 canyons in total at this state park, though not all produce waterfalls throughout the year. Some of the most popular are the French Canyon, Wildcat Canyon, and St. Louis Canyon; it's in St. Louis Canyon where you'll find the eponymous falls: an 80-foot spectacle that's quite commanding in person.
Tahquamenon Falls, McMillan Township, MI 49768, USA
One of Michigan’s true treasures, Tahquamenon Falls is peak #PureMichigan. Tahquamenon Falls is actually two enchanting cascades, both located inside the eponymous Tahquamenon Falls State Park. One of the most visually stunning cascades in the country, the signature brown running through these falls comes from tannins absorbed from cedar and hemlock swamps. While this chemical reaction can cloud the falls in the summer, during the winter months, the tannins infuse the frozen falls with a delightful -- and unexpected -- pop of color.
Raymondskill Falls, Dingman Township, PA 18337, USA
At a grand 150 feet tall, Raymondskill Falls is the tallest waterfall in Pennsylvania, and its three-tiered cascades are pretty much the Platonic ideal of waterfalls. The waterfall, which is only slightly shorter than Niagara Falls when each tier is added together, provides the picture-perfect setting for photographs and quiet contemplation. This is an immensely beautiful area, and quite popular too -- as such, plan to visit during the winter and early spring, so you can have this captivating nature scene all to yourself.
Rainbow Falls, Keene, NY 12943, USA
There is an abundance of natural beauty in Upstate New York, but Rainbow Falls is on a whole other level. Located in Watkins Glen State Park, Rainbow Falls is the tallest fall in the park -- and if you visit at just the right time of day, you might catch an enchanting rainbow, too. The park as a whole is pure fantasy; with four trails, 19 waterfalls, a lily pond, ecology path, and a 151-year-old suspension bridge, it's like something out of Lord of the Rings. The icing on the cake is these falls, the most magical pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.
Niagara Falls, NY, USA
Niagara Falls is not only one of the best-known state parks in New York, but also in the world. The first state park designated in the United States, this natural attraction attracts some 30 million visitors each year and is a true American icon. Draining Lake Erie into Lake Ontario, the falls -- technically a set of three cascades -- are one of the most powerful on the continent, with six million cubic feet of water flowing every minute. It's a magnificent spectacle to see in person and a humbling reminder of Mother Nature's prowess.
Kent Falls State Park, 462 Kent Cornwall Rd, Kent, CT 06757, USA
Kent Falls State Park was established in 1919 when the White Memorial Foundation bequeathed 200 acres of land to the state of Connecticut. The park has repeatedly been named as one of the most beautiful places in the state
-- and Northeast -- and Kent Falls certainly has something to do with that. In this series of incredible cascades, water rushes 250 feet down a path of smooth, glistening rocks. The tallest individual waterfall stands at an impressive 70 feet, but don't worry too much about superlatives; Kent Falls really is the sum of its parts.
Moxie Falls, Unnamed Road, West Forks, ME 04985, USA
With a spectacular 90-foot drop, Moxie Falls is Maine's highest and most easily accessible waterfall. It's also one of the most beautiful places in all of New England. The trek to the falls is nearly as breathtaking as the cascades themselves, traversing through verdant forests that are straight out of a fairy tale. As the greenery thins and falls come into view, you're bound to have your breath taken away by this enthralling scene in the Pine Tree State.
Waterfall chasing is a particular variety of wanderlust with which we’re well familiar, and after seeing some of these showstoppers in person, we guarantee you’ll want to chase them all.
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Best Waterfalls in the US
What are some other must-visit waterfalls in the U.S.?
Niagara Falls is, hands down, the most famous waterfall in the country. The first state park designated in the United States, Niagara Falls State Park attracts some 30 million visitors each year and is a true American icon. Draining Lake Erie into Lake Ontario, the falls — technically a set of three cascades — are one of the most powerful on the continent, with six million cubic feet of water flowing every minute. Niagara is a magnificent spectacle to see in person and a humbling reminder of Mother Nature’s prowess. It’s glorious and epic, yes, but there are wondrous waterfalls across the country that easily rival Niagara Falls. Below you'll find some other must-visit cascades that we consider among the best waterfalls in the US:
- Hamilton Pool Preserve - Texas. Hamilton Pool isn't as much a single waterfall as it is an entire waterfall scene. The limestone grotto formed thousands of years ago when the dome of an underground river collapsed due to erosion. Beneath its expanse, a 50-foot waterfall flows into the pool, creating a sublime, total sensory experience. Between the turquoise waters, mossy overhangs, caverns, and trickling falls (or dripping springs), Hamilton Pool Preserve is easily one of the most enchanting waterfalls in the country.
- Ruby Falls - Tennessee. The tallest underground waterfall in the country, Ruby Falls is an absolutely awe-inspiring spectacle that will stop you in your tracks. Everything about Ruby Falls is unique, from its underground location atop a mountain to its otherworldly caverns full of fascinating geologic formations and superlative stats. At 145 feet tall, Ruby Falls is an extraordinary spectacle, and there are many ways to experience the falls. The Lantern Tours are perhaps the most magical way to experience these underground falls; small groups are led through the caverns with hand-held lanterns as the only light source. Rock formations, pristine pools, and shadows dance before your eyes. Ruby Falls truly is an experience for any self-described waterfall chaser.
- Cumberland Falls - Kentucky. Hailed as Kentucky's "Niagara of the South," Cumberland Falls is a majestic, 68-foot waterfall located on the commanding Cumberland River. Not only is Cumberland Falls an awe-inspiring force of nature, it's also the site of a natural phenomenon that's so rare, it's only experienced a few places in the entire world. Known as a "moonbow," this prismatic phenomenon is created when light refracts in the waterfall's spraying water droplets. The moonbow lingers above the falls for up to two days as long as the sky is clear, on either end of the full moon. One of the most spectacular and accessible waterfall trails in the country, the Moonbow Trail is a bucket-list must -- especially at night.
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Great Falls - Virginia. A jaw-dropping natural wonder in Virginia, at Great Falls, the Potomac River drops 50 feet and flows into Mather Gorge, creating a vision so stunning you'll feel as though you've entered a land before time. The falls are located within the eponymous park, a scenic and rocky stretch of the Potomac that twists and turns for 800 amazing acres, resulting in Class V rapids and abundant cascades. During cold spells, the falls often freeze over, making for a winter wonderland you won't believe is just minutes from our nation's capital.
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Wailua Falls - Hawaii. In a state with arguably the highest density of waterfalls in the U.S., the waterfalls found on Hawaii's Kauai island are truly second to none. From the stunning Jurassic Falls you can only witness via helicopter tour to the ethereal “weeping wall,” Kauai waterfalls are remarkable, but there is only one cascade magical enough to be called Hawaii’s Niagara Falls. Surrounded by lush foliage and pouring 80 feet into a dazzling pool, Wailua Falls is more beautiful than language can convey. Unlike many of Kauai’s waterfalls, Wailua Falls is wholly, wonderfully accessible -- no hiking necessary. But while you can leave the hiking boots at home, definitely bring your camera: when the sun hits at just the right angle, a beautiful rainbow extending from the base of the falls into the mist will appear. It's a spectacular sight to behold, and one you'll hold in your heart forever!