5 Must-See National Waterfalls and Tips for Visiting Them
Waterfalls are some of nature's most awe-inspiring wonders, each one with its unique beauty. If you're looking to add some breathtaking destinations to your travel bucket list, here are five must-see national waterfalls and a few tips to make the most of your visit.
YOSEMITE FALLS, CALIFORNIA
- Location: Yosemite National Park, California
- Special Features: At 2,425 feet, Yosemite Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in North America. It’s technically composed of three separate falls: Upper Yosemite Fall, Middle Cascades, and Lower Yosemite Fall. Its stunning beauty, combined with its height, makes it one of the most iconic waterfalls in the world.
- Tips for Visiting: The best time to visit Yosemite Falls is in the spring, as the snowmelt fuels the waterfall's flow. If you’re visiting in the summer, the falls may be less powerful or even dry. For the best view, take the one-mile loop trail to Lower Yosemite Falls, or, for a more challenging hike, head up to the top of Upper Yosemite Falls.
NIAGARA FALLS, NEW YORK
- Location: Niagara Falls State Park, New York
- Special Features: Niagara Falls is made up of three waterfalls: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls. The falls straddle the U.S.-Canada border and have the highest flow rate of any waterfall in North America. Horseshoe Falls is the most powerful, creating a mesmerizing mist that adds to the dramatic landscape.
- Tips for Visiting: To fully experience Niagara Falls, take a "Maid of the Mist" boat tour that gets you close to the base of Horseshoe Falls. Don’t forget your rain gear—you’re going to get wet! For stunning nighttime views, check out the falls illuminated by colorful lights.
MULTNOMAH FALLS, OREGON
- Location: Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, Oregon
- Special Features: At 620 feet tall, Multnomah Falls is the tallest waterfall in Oregon and one of the most photographed waterfalls in the Pacific Northwest. The waterfall is fed by underground springs from Larch Mountain, which means it has a steady flow year-round.
- Tips for Visiting: The paved trail to the Benson Bridge, located halfway up the falls, offers fantastic views. It’s a relatively easy hike that’s accessible for most visitors. For a more immersive experience, continue the trail to the top of the falls for a bird's eye view of the Columbia River Gorge.
HAVASU FALLS, ARIZONA
- Location: Havasupai Indian Reservation, Grand Canyon, Arizona
- Special Features: Havasu Falls is known for its turquoise-blue waters that contrast beautifully with the red rock canyon. The striking color of the water comes from high concentrations of calcium carbonate and magnesium in the rocks. The falls drop about 100 feet into a crystal-clear pool below, making it a perfect swimming spot.
- Tips for Visiting: Reaching Havasu Falls requires a 10-mile hike each way, so be prepared for a challenging journey. Permits are required to enter the Havasupai Reservation, and they can sell out quickly, so book well in advance. Bring plenty of water and wear sturdy hiking shoes for the trek.
RUBY FALLS, TENNESSEE
- Location: Lookout Mountain, near Chattanooga, Tennessee
- Special Features: Ruby Falls is an underground waterfall that descends 145 feet inside Lookout Mountain. It's the tallest and deepest underground waterfall open to the public in the U.S. The waterfall is illuminated in various colors, creating a surreal and enchanting atmosphere.
- Tips for Visiting: Since Ruby Falls is located inside a cave, you’ll need to join a guided tour to see it. The tours often fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist season, so reserve your spot ahead of time. The cave can be cool, so bring a light jacket.
Visiting these waterfalls offers not just stunning views but unique experiences - whether it's taking a boat ride, going underground, or hiking into a canyon. Each of these waterfalls showcases the diverse natural beauty of the U.S., making them worth the trip for any outdoor enthusiast. Remember to respect the environment, follow park guidelines, and come prepared with appropriate gear to enhance your adventure.
