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⚡ Quick Answer: The best waterfall hikes in the US – Multnomah, Havasu, Ramsey Cascades, and Yosemite Mist Trail – from roadside cascades to backcountry giants, plus gear for wet, slippery trails.
There’s a special magic to hiking toward the sound of falling water: the trail cools, the air turns misty, and then you round a bend and there it is, a curtain of white crashing into a pool. Waterfall hikes are the ultimate reward-per-mile trail, which is why they’re perfect for beginners, families, and anyone who wants a payoff. Here are the best waterfall hikes in the US, from roadside cascades to backcountry giants.
1. Multnomah Falls, Oregon
The most famous waterfall in the Pacific Northwest: a 620-foot two-tiered plunge with an iconic footbridge across its face. A paved path reaches the bridge; a steeper trail climbs to the top. Roadside-easy access makes it a must-see.
2. Havasu Falls, Arizona
Turquoise water pouring over red rock deep in the Grand Canyon, reached by a serious 10-mile hike and a coveted permit. This is the bucket-list waterfall, worth every step and every refresh of the reservation page.
3. Ramsey Cascades, Great Smoky Mountains
The tallest waterfall in the Smokies, earned via 8 miles through old-growth forest with trees the size of cars. A proper hike with a spectacular reward (more in our Smokies guide).
4. Vernal & Nevada Falls, Yosemite
The Mist Trail climbs a granite staircase right alongside two thundering waterfalls, and yes, you will get soaked by the spray (that’s the fun). One of the great day hikes in America.
5. Roadside gems of the Southeast
Not every great waterfall requires a trek. Places like Dry Falls in North Carolina, where you walk behind the water, and countless Blue Ridge cascades deliver huge scenery for a short, family-friendly stroll.
Gear for wet, misty, slippery trails
Waterfall trails share three hazards: spray, slick rock, and pools you’ll want to wade. Grippy water shoes handle slippery approaches and let you cool off in the plunge pool, a dry bag keeps your phone and camera safe from mist, and a quick-dry towel means you’re not hiking out soggy.
- Roll-top waterproof closure
- Waterproof-coated fabric and seams
- Rectangular shape for efficient packing
- Microfiber
- Imported
- Dry off quickly when camping or swimming with this super absorbent microfiber towel that includes a snap loop for easy h…
Chase the falls (safely)
Waterfalls are most powerful in spring and after rain, but wet rock is treacherous, so stay on trails, never climb on slick rock above a drop, and respect barriers. Pack the essentials from our day hike checklist, and find your next trail in the best hiking trails guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best waterfall hikes in the US?
Spectacular waterfall hikes are found in the Columbia River Gorge in Oregon, the Great Smoky Mountains, Yosemite, and the mountains of the Northeast. These trails lead to everything from towering cascades to hidden gems, and many are family-friendly.
When is the best time to see waterfalls?
Spring is often the best time, when snowmelt and rain swell the falls to their fullest and most dramatic flow. Waterfalls can slow to a trickle by late summer in dry regions. Check recent conditions, and remember that wet rocks near falls are slippery year-round.
Are waterfall hikes safe?
They are safe with caution, but the rocks around waterfalls are extremely slippery and currents above and below falls can be dangerous. Stay on marked trails, keep back from edges and the top of falls, watch children closely, and never climb on wet rocks near the water.
Written by Sarah Brooks · Hiking & National Parks
Sarah fell in love with the outdoors on a childhood trip to the Smokies and has logged thousands of trail miles across 30+ national parks since. She is happiest above treeline with a map in hand.
