10 Epic Waterfall Hikes in the US
The US is gifted with an abundance of gorgeous waterfall hikes. From Latourell Falls Loop in Oregon to Wailua Falls in Hawaii, here’s some of our favorite ones!
Wyoming, Upper Falls and Lower Falls
Yellowstone, Prominent points allow visitors to gape down to the Yellowstone River far below and the Upper and Lower Falls plunging over their precipices. Inspiration Point has accessible overlooks, Artist Point takes in the classic canyon view, and trails with steep stairways climb down to other viewing platforms.
- Strategic, flexible itineraries for history buffs, wildlife enthusiasts, outdoor adventurers, and more, including focused coverage of Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton National Park, and Devils Tower
- The top sights and unique experiences: Learn about Wyoming’s indigenous cultures at the Plains Indian Museum or enjoy parades and dancing at a traditional powwow. Immerse yourself in the cowboy lifestyle at a rodeo and explore timeless towns where the Old West is alive and well. Peruse trendy Jackson Hole and dig in to locally raised bison burgers and huckleberry pie
- Outdoor activities: Hike through Yellowstone’s majestic wilderness, spot bison, elk, bears, or wolves, and marvel at the legendary Old Faithful. Go whitewater rafting or kayaking, soak in hot springs, ride a gondola up to jaw-dropping mountain-top views, or ski the alpine slopes at Snow King
- The best road trips in Wyoming, including a loop through Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks
- Honest advice from former wilderness guide Carter G. Walker on when to go, where to eat, and where to stay, from historic lodges to dude ranches and campsites
- Full-color photos and detailed maps throughout
- Thorough background on the history, weather, wildlife, outdoor recreation, safety, and culture
Focusing on the parks? Try Moon Yellowstone & Grand Teton. Exploring the area? Try Moon Montana.
About Moon Travel Guides: Moon was founded in 1973 to empower independent, active, and conscious travel. We prioritize local businesses, outdoor recreation, and traveling strategically and sustainably. Moon Travel Guides are written by local, expert authors with great stories to tell—and they can’t wait to share their favorite places with you.
For more inspiration, follow @moonguides on social media.
California, Upper Yosemite Falls
At 2,425 feet, Yosemite Falls is the highest waterfall in North America. That’s why hundreds of park visitors hike this strenuous trail every day in the spring and summer. There’s no feeling quite like standing at the waterfall’s brink and realizing you’ve conquered a landmark of this magnitude.
Pack a lunch, lace up your boots, and head out to discover the best hiking trails in the Golden State with Moon California Hiking.
- A Hike for Everyone: Pick the right hike for you, from breathtaking coastal walks to challenging backcountry treks, with options ranging from easy day hikes to multi-day backpacking trips
- Best Hikes Lists: Choose from strategic lists of the best hikes for kids, bird-watching, redwoods, vivid fall colors, waterfalls, wheelchair-accessibility, and more
- Essential Planning Details: Each hike is marked with round-trip distance and estimated hiking time, as well as rated for scenic beauty and trail difficulty
- Maps and Directions: Find easy-to-use maps, driving directions to each trailhead, and details on where to park
- Skip the Crowds: Have the trail to yourself with recommended off-the-radar hikes
- Expert Advice: Seasoned hikers Tom Stienstra and Ann Marie Brown offer their trusted insight and honest opinions on each trail
- Tips and Tools: Advice on gear, first aid, camping permits, and ethical hiking, plus background information on climate, landscape, and wildlife
Whether you’re a veteran or a first-time hiker, Moon’s comprehensive coverage and honest expertise will have you gearing up for your next adventure.
Exploring more of the Golden State? Try Moon California Camping. Hitting the road? Check out Moon California Road Trip.
Oregon, Latourell Falls Loop
This breezy loop crescendos at one of the most photographed waterfalls in the Gorge, set against a backdrop of columnar basalt pillars.
- Diverse Hiking Options: Whether you plan to take peaceful walks along the coast or challenging treks up Mount Hood, enjoy outdoor getaways ranging from easy day hikes to multi-day backpacking trips
- Find Your Hike: Looking for something specific? Choose from strategic lists of the best hikes for wildflowers, waterfalls, or hiking with your dog, plus a breakdown of the best hikes by season
- The Top Outdoor Experiences: Explore a Mars-like red rock landscape in the Alvord Desert, or marvel at one of the 90 rushing waterfalls in the Colombia River Gorge. Peer into the mouth of a volcano crater, gaze at the Portland skyline from afar, or climb to the top of a picturesque lighthouse. Take a dip in relaxing hot springs, study real wagon ruts on the historic Oregon Trail, and spot puffins, pelicans, and plovers along the coast
- Nearby Fun: Spend a night under the stars at a nearby campground, sip a refreshing local brew after a day of hiking, or enjoy fresh-caught fish at a beachfront restaurant
- Essential Planning Details: Each hike is described in detail and marked with round-trip distance and hiking time, difficulty, terrain type, elevation gain, and access points
- Maps and Directions: Find easy-to-use maps, driving directions to each trailhead, and details on where to park
- Expert Advice: Seasoned hiker Matt Wastradowski offers experienced insights, local secrets, and honest opinions of each trail
- Tips and Tools: Advice on gear, first aid, and camping permits, plus background information on climate, landscape, and wildlife
Whether you’re a veteran or a first-time hiker, Moon’s comprehensive coverage and local expertise will have you gearing up for your next adventure.
About Moon Travel Guides: Moon was founded in 1973 to empower independent, active, and conscious travel. We prioritize local businesses, outdoor recreation, and traveling strategically and sustainably. Moon Travel Guides are written by local, expert authors with great stories to tell—and they can’t wait to share their favorite places with you.
For more inspiration, follow @moonguides on social media.
Washington, Snoqualmie Falls
You can see Snoqualmie Falls’ dramatic 270-foot plunge just a few steps beyond the Salish Lodge, but the 0.7-mile walk from this upper viewing area to the Snoqualmie River greatly enhances your visit.The trail is wide, steep, and lined with salmonberries, elderberries, sword ferns, vine maple, and other flora.
- Diverse Hiking Options: Whether you plan to take leisurely lakeside walks or challenging journeys around Mount Pilchuck, enjoy outdoor getaways ranging from easy day hikes to multi-day backpacking trips
- Find Your Hike: Looking for something specific? Choose from strategic lists of the best hikes for breathtaking waterfalls, spring wildflowers, or hiking with your dog, plus a breakdown of the best hikes by season
- The Top Outdoor Experiences: Pick alpine wildflowers in a meadow along Mount Rainier’s Skyline Trail, or wander through a dense, green rain forest in Olympic National Park. Venture across a suspension bridge to breathtaking canyon views, and glimpse seals, eagles, and deer at a wildlife reserve. Catch a vibrant sunset from a beach dotted with sea stacks, or explore an underground lava tube
- Nearby Fun: Relax post-hike at a local brewery, savor a plate of fresh oysters, and stargaze before bed at a nearby campground
- Essential Planning Details: Each hike is described in detail and marked with round-trip distance and hiking time, difficulty, terrain type, elevation gain, and access points
- Maps and Directions: Find easy-to-use maps, driving directions to each trailhead, and details on where to park
- Expert Advice: Longtime hiker Craig Hill shares his local secrets, unique tips, and honest opinions of each trail
- Tips and Tools: Advice on gear, first aid, and camping permits, plus background information on climate, landscape, and wildlife
Hitting the road? Check out Moon Pacific Northwest Road Trip!
About Moon Travel Guides: Moon was founded in 1973 to empower independent, active, and conscious travel. We prioritize local businesses, outdoor recreation, and traveling strategically and sustainably. Moon Travel Guides are written by local, expert authors with great stories to tell—and they can’t wait to share their favorite places with you.
For more inspiration, follow @moonguides on social media.
New Hampshire, Arethusa Falls
A trip to the Whites wouldn’t be complete without gawking at the towering wonder that is Arethusa Falls. At nearly 200 feet tall, this silvery cascade tumbles down a sheer cliff face right in the heart of Crawford Notch State Park. The direct-access route, the Arethusa Falls Trail, is popular during all seasons—even winter, when ice climbers tempt fate by scaling the frozen falls.
Hit the trail and experience the best local adventures in Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut with Moon New England Hiking! Inside you’ll find:
- 150 Outdoor Getaways including easy day hikes and multi-day backpacking trips
- Diverse Hiking Options from breathtaking seaside walks in Coastal Maine to challenging backcountry treks in the Berkshires
- Find Your Hike: Choose from strategic lists like the best spots for a swim, high-elevation vistas, New England oddities, and hikes with nearby breweries, plus a breakdown of the best hikes for each season
- The Top Outdoor Experiences: Cool off under a cascading waterfall, pick wild blueberries from a meadow, and take in views of endless fall foliage. Take a dip in the ocean after scaling the cliffs in Acadia or meander through shorebird habitats in Rhode Island. Visit a replica of Thoreau’s cabin at historic Walden Pond, enjoy a peaceful afternoon on a secluded trail, and marvel at the Boston skyline from afar
- Nearby Fun: Relax after your hike at a local brewery, find a nearby campground, or stop for lunch at a mom n’ pop eatery
- Essential Planning Details: Each hike is described in detail and marked with round-trip distance and hiking time, difficulty, terrain type, elevation gain, and access points
- Maps and Directions: Easy-to-use maps, driving directions to each trailhead, and details on where to park
- Full-color photos throughout
- Expert Advice: Seasoned hikers Miles Howard and Kelsey Perrett reveal their experienced insights, local secrets, and honest opinions of each trail
- Tips and Tools: Advice on gear, first aid, protecting the environment, and getting park passes, plus background information on climate, landscape, and wildlife
Whether you’re a veteran or a first-time hiker, Moon’s comprehensive coverage and local expertise will have you gearing up for your next adventure.
Exploring the region by car? Check out Moon New England Road Trip.
About Moon Travel Guides: Moon was founded in 1973 to empower independent, active, and conscious travel. We prioritize local businesses, outdoor recreation, and traveling strategically and sustainably. Moon Travel Guides are written by local, expert authors with great stories to tell—and they can’t wait to share their favorite places with you.
About Moon Travel Guides: Moon was founded in 1973 to empower independent, active, and conscious travel. We prioritize local businesses, outdoor recreation, and traveling strategically and sustainably. Moon Travel Guides are written by local, expert authors with great stories to tell—and they can’t wait to share their favorite places with you.
For more inspiration, follow @moonguides on social media.
Tennessee, Fall Hollow Waterfall
This path path leads to a wooden bridge and platform about halfway down the falls with a simple bench where you can sit and take in the sights and sounds of the waterfall. In the late summer butterflies flitter around like a scene from a Disney movie. This is easily one of the prettiest places on the Tennessee section of the Trace and a great spot for a picnic.
Hop in the car and set off on an adventure along the Natchez Trace Parkway, from the country music capital to the birthplace of jazz. Inside Moon Nashville to New Orleans Road Trip you’ll find:
- Maps and Driving Tools: Over 20 easy-to-use maps keep you oriented on and off the parkway, along with site-to-site mileage, driving times, and detailed directions for the entire route
- Get to Know the Music of the South: Catch up-and-coming musicians play at quaint cafes, and hit the Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville. Bask in the sounds of blues on Beale Street, and pay homage to “The King” at Graceland. Listen to a soulful live jazz group, or learn about the South’s musical legacy on the Mississippi Blues Trail
- Savor Southern Food: Enjoy authentic hot chicken, get your barbecue fix in Memphis, and indulge in Creole cuisine and fresh beignets in New Orleans
- Itineraries for Every Traveler: Drive the entire two-week route or follow suggestions for spending time in and around Nashville, Memphis, and New Orleans. Take an introspective moment at influential Civil Rights Movement sites, hike past dramatic waterfalls, spend a peaceful morning fishing, or bike along the Mississippi River
- Local Expertise: Nashville local Margaret Littman shares her love for the Natchez Trace
- Planning Your Trip: Know when and where to get gas, how to avoid traffic, and tips for driving in different road and weather conditions, plus essential advice for biking the route and suggestions for LGBTQ+ travelers, families, seniors, and visitors with disabilities
With Moon Nashville to New Orleans’ practical tips, detailed itineraries, and insider’s view, you’re ready to fill up the tank and hit the road.
Looking to explore more of America on wheels? Try Moon Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip. For more quintessential South, check out Moon Tennessee or Moon Asheville & the Great Smoky Mountains.
About Moon Travel Guides: Moon was founded in 1973 to empower independent, active, and conscious travel. We prioritize local businesses, outdoor recreation, and traveling strategically and sustainably. Moon Travel Guides are written by local, expert authors with great stories to tell—and they can’t wait to share their favorite places with you.
For more inspiration, follow @moonguides on social media.
Michigan, Bond Falls
Bond Falls is one of the most spectacular falls in the Upper Peninsula, despite being overdeveloped with walkways and viewing platforms
Make the most of the natural beauty and adventurous spirit of the “U.P.,” from vast aquamarine waters to charming upland towns, with Moon Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Inside you’ll find:
- Strategic, flexible itineraries, whether you want to see the best of the peninsula in a week or two or spend a long weekend on Mackinac Island
- Top experiences and things to do: Relax in a cozy lake lodge or a grand Victorian-style hotel, sample local vintages at U.P. wineries, kick back at an outdoor summer concert, or tour dozens of picturesque lighthouses. Indulge in local delicacies like Cornish pasties, Swedish meatballs, and Mackinac Island fudge. Wander around the country’s best-preserved ghost town or watch costumed interpreters reenact battles at historic military sites
- Best outdoor adventures for every season: Hike past colorful maple forests and rushing waterfalls, and spot wild moose, red foxes, and white-tailed deer. Trot through flower-filled meadows on horseback or cycle through history on a bike tour. Spend a summer day boating, fishing, and swimming, or go skiing, snowshoeing, or snowmobiling on a winter afternoon
- Expert advice on when to go, where to stay, and how to get around from lifelong Michigander Paul Vachon
- Full-color photos and detailed maps throughout
- Thorough background information on the landscape, climate, wildlife, and local culture
Experience the best of the Upper Peninsula with Moon.
Exploring more of the Great Lakes State? Try Moon Michigan.
About Moon Travel Guides: Moon was founded in 1973 to empower independent, active, and conscious travel. We prioritize local businesses, outdoor recreation, and traveling strategically and sustainably. Moon Travel Guides are written by local, expert authors with great stories to tell—and they can’t wait to share their favorite places with you.
For more inspiration, follow @moonguides on social media.
About Moon Travel Guides: Moon was founded in 1973 to empower independent, active, and conscious travel. We prioritize local businesses, outdoor recreation, and traveling strategically and sustainably. Moon Travel Guides are written by local, expert authors with great stories to tell—and they can’t wait to share their favorite places with you.
For more inspiration, follow @moonguides on social media.
North Carolina, Looking Glass Falls
Looking Glass Falls is both kid-friendly and wheelchair accessible (at least to the upper overlook); that and its proximity to the Blue Ridge Parkway make it the perfect quickie waterfall. There are a number of beautiful waterfalls in North Carolina, and this is one the best.
- Multiple Routes: Choose from flexible getaways along the Blue Ridge Parkway, including the ultimate two-week route, a four-day loop from D.C., and more
- Eat, sleep, stop and explore: With lists of the best hikes, views, restaurants, and more, you can listen to live bluegrass, find the best barbecue around, or sip local moonshine. Wander through the renowned museums in Washington D.C. or take a break in a charming mountain town. Explore a labyrinthine cave system, hike a leg of the famous Appalachian Trail, and spot black bears and elk in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Try your hand at gem mining, spend an afternoon antique hunting, or pick fruit at a family-owned orchard
- Maps and driving tools: Easy-to-use maps keep you oriented on and off the highway, along with site-to-site mileage, driving times, detailed directions, and full-color photos throughout
- Local expertise: North Carolinian and mountaineer Jason Frye shares his top tips for what to do
- Planning your trip: Know when and where to get gas, how to avoid traffic, tips for driving in different road and weather conditions, and suggestions for LBGTQ+ travelers, seniors, and road trippers with children
Exploring more of America on wheels? Try Moon Nashville to New Orleans Road Trip or Moon Drive & Hike Appalachian Trail. Doing more than driving through? Check out Moon Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
About Moon Travel Guides: Moon was founded in 1973 to empower independent, active, and conscious travel. We prioritize local businesses, outdoor recreation, and traveling strategically and sustainably. Moon Travel Guides are written by local, expert authors with great stories to tell—and they can’t wait to share their favorite places with you.
For more inspiration, follow @moonguides on social media.
Colorado, Rifle Falls State Park
First impressions at Rifle Falls State Park are not very striking, but if you explore a little, you’ll find a triple waterfall and caves riddling the limestone cliffs behind the falls. This is a unique destination, with more to offer than the arid canyon and red cliffs initially indicate.
- Diverse Hiking Options: Whether you plan to hike to the crest of the Continental Divide, through thick fairytale aspen groves or to one of hundreds of iconic snow-capped peaks, enjoy outdoor getaways ranging from easy day hikes to multi-day backpacking trips
- Find Your Hike: Looking for something specific? Choose from strategic lists of the best hikes for wildflowers, waterfalls, or hiking with your dog, plus a breakdown of the best hikes by season
- The Top Outdoor Experiences: Climb the dunes at Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve or walk through golden aspen groves along Kenosha Pass. Gawk at red rock formations along the Garden of the Gods Loop or challenge yourself while you huff and puff to the top of Quandary Peak
- Nearby Fun: Spend a night under the stars at a nearby campground or sip a refreshing local brew after a day on the trail
- Essential Planning Details: Each hike is described in detail and marked with round-trip distance and hiking time, difficulty, terrain type, elevation gain, and access points
- Maps and Directions: Find easy-to-use maps, driving directions to each trailhead, and details on where to park
- Expert Advice: Seasoned hiker Joshua Berman offers experienced insights, local secrets, and honest opinions of each trail
- Tips and Tools: Advice on gear, first aid, and camping permits, plus background information on climate, landscape, and wildlife
About Moon Travel Guides: Moon was founded in 1973 to empower independent, active, and conscious travel. We prioritize local businesses, outdoor recreation, and traveling strategically and sustainably. Moon Travel Guides are written by local, expert authors with great stories to tell—and they can’t wait to share their favorite places with you.
Pitching a tent? Check out Moon Colorado Camping!
Hawaii, Wailua Falls
This side-of-the-road star captures a lot of attention with its 80-foot (24-m) drop and plunge pool along the Road to Hana. It’s also in the middle of Hana’s vibrant rainforest, making it seem otherworldly.
From endless golden beaches and legendary surf to epic outdoor adventures, a week in paradise awaits with advice from Hawaii insider Greg Archer. Inside Moon Best of Maui you’ll find:
- Flexible, strategic itineraries: Spend 7 days seeing the best of Maui or follow short itinerary options for each region that can be combined for a longer trip
- Authentic can’t-miss experiences: Enjoy the best beaches, diving and snorkeling spots, views, and more. Drive the famous 30-mile Road to Hana, bike through misty hidden valleys, and hike through bamboo forests to thundering waterfalls. Snorkel with giant green sea turtles, learn how to catch the perfect wave, or embark on a whale-watching tour. Savor Hawaiian cuisine, unwind at a luxurious spa, or relax on a beach as you watch the sunset
- Expert insight from Maui local Greg Archer on how to experience the island like an insider, support local and sustainable businesses, and avoid crowds
- Full-color photos and detailed maps throughout
- Background information on Maui’s landscape, history, and culture
About Moon Travel Guides: Moon was founded in 1973 to empower independent, active, and conscious travel. We prioritize local businesses, outdoor recreation, and traveling strategically and sustainably. Moon Travel Guides are written by local, expert authors with great stories to tell—and they can’t wait to share their favorite places with you.
For more inspiration, follow @moonguides on social media.
What to read next…
Pin it for Later
