If You've Asked Where To Find Waterfalls Near Me, Here's A List Of Missouri's Most Popular

Many of us would probably agree that waterfalls are one of nature’s most beautiful creations. We’re fortunate enough to have quite a few here in Missouri that we can visit any time we want, whether we’re up for a leisurely hike or we want to dip our feet in the cascade’s cool water. Here are just a few of the most popular waterfalls in Missouri that are always worth a visit – no matter how many times you’ve seen them.

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Mina Sauk Falls, tucked in Taum Sauk Mountain State Park, has to top any list of Missouri’s most popular waterfalls. Measuring 132 feet, the towering cascade is the park’s tallest waterfall and one of the prettiest. Follow the three-mile Mina Sauk Falls Trail to reach the cascade. You’ll need a pair of sturdy hiking boots as the terrain can get a bit rough, but the effort is well worth it for the spectacular year-round views. Head over to the official website of Taum Mountain State Park for more information.

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Even if you don’t feel like getting out of the car, you can admire Grand Falls in Joplin right from the parking lot. The gorgeous cascade is easy to reach via a short stroll, too. The largest naturally continuously flowing waterfall in Missouri, Grand Falls tumbles into a pool of beautiful blue water. While it drops just 12 feet, it spans 163 feet across, and the pool at the bottom is popular with swimmers in the summer. Plan your trip to Grand Falls on the official website of Joplin.

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Rocky Falls definitely ranks as one of the most popular swimming spots in Missouri. The breathtaking waterfall drops down over chiseled rocks into a pool that’s perfect for wading in during the hottest months of the year. Park at the nearby lot, and take a short stroll straight to the waterfall. You’ll definitely want to visit in each season to marvel at Rocky Falls, which cascades down 40 feet, when it’s frozen in the winter, glistening in the sun in the spring and in the summer, and framed by the foliage in the fall. Stop by the official website of Rocky Falls for more information.

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Definitely slip on your hiking, or comfy, shoes for the one-mile trail that leads to a quaint waterfall at Hickory Canyons Natural Area. The Western Trail will take you along a tree-lined path and down a set of wooden stairs. Keep an eye out for fallen trees and tree roots on the ground, which pose a bit of a challenge. You’ll pass several small wet-weather waterfalls on your way to the gorgeous masterpiece of the park. Find more information on Hickory Canyons Natural Area.

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Dogwood Canyon lays claim to a few spectacular waterfalls, one of which sits right next to the Mill & Canyon Grill Restaurant. Grab a bite eat and sip a drink as you watch the water effortlessly tumble down. If you want to see another equally beautiful waterfall, just explore the trails and listen for the sound of the water. (You’ll probably hear the waterfall before you see it.) Plan your trip on the official website of Dogwood Canyon.

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For one of the most unique waterfalls in Missouri, make your way to Marvel Cave in Branson. Embark on a tour of the cave, which leads to the only underground waterfall in the state, where you’ll get insight into both the cave and the waterfall. However, be prepared as you’ll have to climb 600 stairs along your journey. If you’re up for it, you'll find the effort is well worth it to see the cascade that’s often lit in shades of blue, pink, and green. Check days, hours, and admission price on the official website of Marvel Cave.

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Follow the .08-mile Old Kate & Waterfall Trail in Parkville Nature Sanctuary that leads to a beautiful waterfall. Before you arrive at the waterfall, however, stroll along a picturesque boardwalk, past a flowing stream, and through a forested area. Chances are you’ll hear the waterfall before you see it. Your best bet is to visit after a rainfall if you want to see the waterfall at its most spectacular. Learn more on the official website of Parkville Nature Sanctuary.

What are your favorite waterfalls in Missouri? Is there a popular waterfall not listed that you think should be? Let us know in the comments! Next time you’re up for a leisurely road trip, hit the highway on this road trip to the best caves and waterfalls in Missouri.