The Hawkeye State is known for plenty of good things, but waterfalls aren’t necessarily one of them. It’s not that we don’t have any waterfalls in Iowa, we just don’t feel the need to flaunt them. But trust us, they’re there! That said, if you want the most bang for your buck when it comes to waterfall viewing, you can catch three beautiful cascades in one small town, all located within a twenty-minute drive of each other. This season, check out this unique trio of waterfalls in Decorah.

Welcome to Decorah, Iowa. Dare we call it the waterfall capital of Iowa? Even if that's not its official moniker, these waterfalls are definitely worth a visit as you explore the Decorah area!
Keith Ewing / Flickr
Decorah is one of the most darling small towns in eastern Iowa with a mesmerizing array of historic architecture to check out. But it's hiding a few surprises as well, courtesy of Mother Nature.
The northern-most falls in the Decorah area is Malanaphy Falls, which tumbles into the Upper Iowa River. To see this beautiful cascade, come prepared for a mile-long hike that might require clambering over some freshly fallen trees.
Malanaphy Spring Falls, 2820 Bluffton Road, Decorah, Iowa, 52101
JackVandenHeuvel / iStock Collection via Getty Images Plus
JackVandenHeuvel / iStock Collection via Getty Images Plus
Set in one of the most beautiful places in Iowa, you can find the trailhead to Malanaphy Falls on Bluffton Road just south of where it crosses the Upper Iowa River. Keep your eyes peeled for a small brown sign marking the "Malanaphy Springs State Preserve" and a small parking lot.

Learn more about hiking to Malanaphy Falls.
Closer in to Decorah is Dunning Spring Falls.
Dunning's Spring Park, Ice Cave Road, Decorah, IA, USA
John_Brueske / iStock Collection via Getty Images Plus

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The most prominent feature of Dunning's Spring Park (located at 203 Quarry Street), this Decorah waterfall is easy to access and beautiful to photograph. All you have to do is cross a charming stone bridge from the parking lot and you're at the waterfall!

Looking for an easy and rewarding day trip? Learn more about this stunning roadside waterfall.
And finally, a bit south of town is Siewers Spring Falls, a stunning man-made waterfall that cascades down a terraced spillway.
Decorah Fish Hatchery, 2321 Siewers Spring Rd, Decorah, IA 52101, USA
Jeffrey Taylor / iStock Collection via Getty Images Plus
AriasPhotos / iStock Collection via Getty Images Plus
You'll find this pretty cascade at the Decorah Fish Hatchery and Siewers Springs Park located at 2325 Siewers Spring Road in Decorah.

There's a lot to love in this area! Learn more about visiting Siewers Spring Falls.
But don't stop with just waterfalls... while you're here, be sure to check out Decorah's own ice cave!
Jacob Nelson/GoogleMaps

Have you ever seen any (or all) of these beautiful Decorah-area waterfalls? Do you have any pro tips for visitors looking to make the most of their visit?

If you’re a waterfall junkie, then you’ll want to add a few more Iowa waterfalls to your journeys! We’ve dug up nine hidden waterfalls in Iowa for you to check out this season.

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Waterfalls in Decorah & Related Info

Jennifer | January 19, 2023

Are there any waterfalls in Iowa?

Unbeknownst to many, there are dozens of waterfalls in Iowa! Fortunately for visitors and locals alike, many of these gorgeous cascades are located within Iowa’s lush state parks and are easy to access and enjoy, although the state has plenty of waterfalls tucked away that take a bit of hiking to reach. From roaring cascades to tiered river falls, some of the prettiest waterfalls and waterfall parks in Iowa are:

  • Backbone State Park Spillway, Dundee
  • Beed's Lake Spillway, Hampton
  • Beulah Spring Falls, McGregor
  • Big Springs Park, Guttenberg
  • Bridal Veil Falls, Pikes Peak State Park, McGregor
  • Briggs Woods Waterfall, Webster City
  • Duck Creek Waterfall, Bettendorf
  • Dunning’s Spring Falls, Decorah
  • Ledges State Park, Boone
  • MacBride Falls, Solon
  • Malanaphy Falls, Decorah
  • Siewers Spring Falls, Decorah
  • Union Grove Lake Waterfall, Gladbrook
  • Willow Creek Waterfall, Mason City

 

Of course, Iowa’s prettiest waterfalls are at their best when enjoyed after heavy rain or during the spring. Plan your visit ahead of time to experience each of these waterfalls at their most spectacular!

What are some of the most beautiful places in Iowa?

Iowa is full of stunning and photo-worthy sights, both natural and man-made. While not a complete list, some of the most beautiful places in Iowa include small towns, lush state parks, backroads, and hidden geologic gems:

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