Iowa is full of hidden gems and secret treasures, and our state has so many surprises to offer both weekend visitors and lifelong residents alike. We have everything from towering cliffs to mysterious caves, to sandy beaches and bright blue lakes – but if you travel a little bit further and look a little bit harder, you’ll find that Iowa has something quite unexpected and absolutely magical indeed: waterfalls! If you feel like doing a little exploring soon, you’ll want to check out these amazing hidden waterfalls in Iowa:
1. Union Grove Lake Waterfall
Tucked away in Tama County, between Marshalltown and Waterloo, Union Grove Lake is a recreational haven that offers one of the most beautiful sights in the state: this completely stunning waterfall.
2. Beulah Spring Falls
Located in Clayton County, this magical, mossy waterfall can be seen on your next visit to Spook Cave in McGregor. Visit the Spook Cave website to plan your visit.
3. Malanaphy Spring Falls
Located in Winneshiek County, Malanaphy Spring Falls is one of Iowa's most beautiful waterfalls. You can find this gem on the Upper Iowa River near Bluffton.
Take a very quick look at this beautiful mossy waterfall in this video:
4. Macbride Falls
Located at Lake Macbride State Park near Solon, Macbride Falls offers a stunning sight to see on your next trip to the area. Visit this website for more information, or for things you'll need to plan your trip or reserve a campground.
Let's take a closer look at the Lake Mcbride Waterfall in Solon, Iowa:
5. Willow Creek Waterfall
Located behind the Frank Lloyd Wright houses in Mason City, the Willow Creek Waterfall offers a sense of peace and tranquility that is hard to find in today's busy lifestyle. For more information about the falls, visit Travel Iowa.
6. Briggs Woods/Boone River Waterfall
Located on the Boone River near Webster City, this secret waterfall is relaxing, as well as beautiful.
7. Dunning's Spring Falls
Also located in Winneshiek County, Dunning's Spring Falls in Decorah is like something out of a fairy tale - so much so, that this spot is a popular favorite for Iowa weddings.
8. Duck Creek Waterfall/Devils Glen
Located within Devils Glen Park in Bettendorf, Duck Creek Waterfall is a great place to go when you want to get away from it all. While you are in Bettendorf checking out the Duck Creek Waterfall, be sure to stop by the Duck Creek Pancake House - a local favorite.
9. Siewer's Spring Waterfall
Probably one of the most beautiful spots in the state, Siewer's Spring Waterfall in Decorah is also a great spot for fishing, due to its position on Trout Run Trail.
Take a closer look (and listen) to the lovely Siewers Spring Waterfall in this cool timelapse video:
Iowa has so much to offer if you just take the time to look. Now that we've spilled the beans about these hidden Iowa waterfalls, you'll be spotting new ones all the time. If you find any hiking trails in Iowa with waterfalls or know of any more secret waterfalls in Iowa share them with us!
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