Iowa may be a landlocked state, but that doesn't mean we're lacking in water features. Need proof? The following is the best waterfall road trip in Iowa; it will take you to see eight stunning cascades that tumble down through bluffs, cliffs, and spillways of the Hawkeye State. After scouring the state, we picked out eight of the very best waterfalls that offer relatively easy access, and then we mapped them out in an easy-to-follow route. The total trip is 434 miles of incredible scenery, with an estimated drive time of about eight and a half hours. We’ve included a link to the Google Map here.

The road trip is long, and you'll want time to enjoy each of the beautiful natural wonders you're stopping to see, so we suggest spacing the trip out over a weekend to get maximum enjoyment out of your Iowa Waterfalls Road Trip. For more about each stop, read on!

1. Dunning’s Spring Falls

The trip will start off in northeast Iowa, where there are several waterfalls clustered in one area. The first waterfall, which is located in Decorah, is Dunning's Spring Falls. Dunning's Spring Falls is so beautiful, it's like something out of a fairy tale. Be sure to travel all the way to the top for a view that's unlike anything else in this world.

2. Siewers Spring Falls

The second stop is also in Decorah, just a hop and a skip away from the first one. Not only is it one of the most beautiful spots in the state, but Siewers Spring Falls is also a great spot for fishing, due to its position on Trout Run Trail. If you're a fisherman, don't forget your pole!

3. Malanaphy Falls

The third stop is also in Winneshiek County, just a short distance away from the first two waterfalls. Located along the upper Iowa River near Bluffton, Malanaphy Falls is one of Iowa's most beautiful waterfalls. The hike to the falls is about half a mile, and it takes you through some stunning Driftless Area landscape.

4. Beulah Spring Falls

Next on the list is Beulah Spring Falls. Beulah Falls is located in Clayton County, not far from the first three waterfalls. This magical, mossy waterfall can be seen on your next visit to Spook Cave in McGregor. If you don't have time for a full waterfall road trip, combine the cave and Beulah Springs for a great day trip destination.

5. Bridal Veil Falls

When you're done at Beulah Falls, hop on over to Bridal Veil Falls. Bridal Veil Falls is also in McGregor, located within Pikes Peak State Park. Make sure you visit after a rain, because otherwise (as you can see in the photo) there isn't much water for the fall.

6. Macbride Falls

Located at Lake Macbride State Park near Solon, Macbride Falls offers a stunning sight to see on your waterfall road trip. This spillway is a great place to catch a sunset any time of year.

7. Union Grove Lake Waterfall

After Macbride Falls, it's time to travel slightly north and slightly west to rural Tama County, where you'll find your next waterfall at Union Grove Lake. Tucked away between Marshalltown and Waterloo, Union Grove Lake is a recreational haven that offers one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the state. (Note: The photo shown above is a depiction, it is not the Union Grove Waterfall.)

8. Willow Creek Waterfall

To finish off the full route, you'll have to travel even further north, to Mason City to see the Willow Creek Waterfall. This spot offers a sense of peace and tranquility that is hard to find in today's busy lifestyle, though it is on private property and is not open to the public. Passersby can steal a peek at the cascade from an overlooking bridge on East State Street - it's a great place to pull over for a photo!

Now that you don't have to spend hours planning your Iowa Waterfall Road Trip, you can spend your time enjoying it instead!

If you're looking for more scenic trip ideas, you'll want to check out this list of the most breathtakingly beautiful Iowa road trips.