50 States, 50 Waterfalls: The Most Breathtaking Cascade in Every Corner of America

From thundering canyon plunges to delicate woodland veils, America’s waterfalls are as diverse as its landscapes. Every state has its own natural gem—a waterfall that captures the essence of its terrain, whether it’s a roaring giant tucked in a mountain gorge or a gentle cascade hidden in rolling farmland. This guide takes you on a journey through all 50 states, spotlighting the most beautiful waterfall in each. Whether you’re chasing mist in the Pacific Northwest, discovering desert falls in the Southwest, or stumbling upon unexpected cascades in the Midwest, there’s a waterfall waiting to take your breath away. Lace up your boots or plan your road trip—nature’s most mesmerizing show is closer than you think.

1. Alabama – Noccalula Falls

Noccalula Falls in Gadsden is a showstopper with its dramatic 90-foot plunge into a lush ravine. Legend surrounds the waterfall, named after a Cherokee princess said to have leapt to her death here. The park surrounding the falls includes botanical gardens, hiking trails, and even a small train for families. The view from the bridge above offers a sweeping look at the roaring cascade. It’s a picturesque blend of natural beauty and local lore. During heavy rains, the volume intensifies and turns the scene into a true spectacle.

2. Alaska – Thunderbird Falls

Located just outside Anchorage, Thunderbird Falls offers a short but rewarding hike through boreal forest to a 200-foot waterfall. Accessible year-round, the trail becomes a snow-covered wonderland in winter and a mossy escape in summer. The viewing deck at the end delivers a panoramic look at the plunging cascade nestled in the canyon. For those feeling adventurous, a lower trail leads to the creek itself. This is one of Alaska’s most accessible waterfalls, perfect for travelers short on time but big on scenery. It’s a peaceful slice of wilderness just minutes from city limits.

3. Arizona – Grand Falls

Also known as “Chocolate Falls,” Grand Falls is a desert marvel that flows only seasonally after snowmelt or monsoon rains. When active, it becomes a thundering torrent of muddy water cascading down a terraced cliff. Located on Navajo land northeast of Flagstaff, it’s taller than Niagara Falls but far less known. The road to the falls requires a high-clearance vehicle, adding to the sense of adventure. Visitors are rewarded with a surreal, otherworldly landscape in the middle of arid highlands. It’s a jaw-dropping reward for those who seek it out.

4. Arkansas – Hemmed-In-Hollow Falls

Tucked into the Buffalo National River area, Hemmed-In-Hollow Falls is the tallest waterfall between the Rockies and Appalachians at 209 feet. Reaching it requires a rugged hike through wooded bluffs, but the effort is well worth it. The falls spill down a sheer rock wall into a quiet cove, creating an ethereal curtain of mist. Best viewed in spring or after rainfall, the scene feels entirely hidden from the world. Towering cliffs amplify the echo of falling water, enhancing the secluded magic. It’s a sacred gem in Arkansas wilderness.

5. California – Burney Falls

President Theodore Roosevelt once called Burney Falls “the Eighth Wonder of the World”—and it’s easy to see why. This 129-foot waterfall in McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park gushes with crystal-clear spring water from both the surface and underground. The result is a multi-tiered cascade that spills over mossy rock with steady, dramatic force. Even during California’s dry months, the falls never stop flowing. A short loop trail offers views from multiple angles, and the deep blue pool at its base is mesmerizing. Burney Falls is a postcard brought to life.

6. Colorado – Bridal Veil Falls

At 365 feet, Bridal Veil Falls is the tallest free-falling waterfall in Colorado, cascading down a sheer cliff at the edge of Telluride. Accessible by a rugged 4WD road or a strenuous hike, the falls are framed by dramatic alpine peaks and historic mining ruins. In winter, the frozen falls attract experienced ice climbers, while in summer, wildflowers line the trail to the top. The power plant perched above the falls adds a touch of history to the view. From the base or lookout points, the water seems to vanish into the air before hitting the rocks below. It’s a showpiece of Colorado’s rugged beauty.

7. Connecticut – Kent Falls

Nestled in the rolling Litchfield Hills, Kent Falls offers a cascade of waterfalls tumbling 250 feet over a quarter-mile. Each tier flows into a clear, rocky pool before continuing downstream through a forested gorge. A paved path and stairway provide close-up access to the falls, making this one of the most family-friendly waterfall hikes in the state. In autumn, the falls are especially scenic with fiery foliage as a backdrop. A covered bridge at the park entrance adds to the charm. It’s a peaceful escape with New England character.

8. Delaware – Brandywine Falls

Delaware’s Brandywine Falls may not rival Western giants in height, but it stands out with its pastoral charm and accessibility. Located within Brandywine Creek State Park, this broad waterfall flows gently over a wide rock shelf, framed by lush trees. The surrounding trails offer quiet views of the creek and connect to historic mills and stone walls. It’s a favorite among local photographers, especially in fall when golden leaves line the water. The park itself is steeped in du Pont family history. Brandywine is the quintessential Eastern waterfall—low, lovely, and layered in nostalgia.

9. Florida – Falling Waters Falls

Florida may be known for its beaches and swamps, but Falling Waters Falls defies expectations. At 73 feet, it’s the tallest waterfall in the state, dropping into a mysterious, cylindrical sinkhole. The surrounding park features pine forests, boardwalk trails, and picnic areas, making it a popular stop in the Panhandle. After heavy rains, the waterfall roars; during dry spells, it becomes a quiet trickle into the abyss. It’s a striking sight in a flat landscape, almost like a hidden portal underground. Falling Waters feels like a secret known only to those who wander inland.

10. Georgia – Amicalola Falls

Amicalola Falls, cascading 729 feet down a rocky mountainside, is Georgia’s tallest and one of its most beloved natural landmarks. Located near the start of the Appalachian Trail, it attracts hikers, nature lovers, and road-trippers alike. A steep staircase trail parallels the falls, offering panoramic viewpoints and the chance to feel its mist. At the base, a scenic lodge welcomes visitors with views of the North Georgia mountains. In spring, blooming rhododendrons frame the falls, while fall offers a canopy of color. It’s a dramatic centerpiece to one of the South’s prettiest parks.

11. Hawaii – Akaka Falls

On the Big Island of Hawaii, Akaka Falls plunges 442 feet into a verdant gorge wrapped in rainforest. A paved loop trail through bamboo groves and wild orchids leads to the overlook, where the waterfall appears like something from a fantasy film. Even in dry months, the volume is impressive thanks to steady rainfall. The park’s misty jungle atmosphere, with chirping birds and hanging vines, makes the journey as memorable as the destination. Nearby Kahuna Falls adds another scenic stop along the way. Akaka is quintessential Hawaii—lush, loud, and unforgettable.

12. Idaho – Shoshone Falls

Dubbed the “Niagara of the West,” Shoshone Falls towers at 212 feet, making it even higher than its more famous eastern cousin. Located in Twin Falls, this massive curtain of water spans nearly 1,000 feet across the Snake River. Best viewed in spring when snowmelt swells the river, the falls thunder into a deep canyon surrounded by basalt cliffs. An overlook park offers perfect views, picnic areas, and trails along the rim. Rainbows often appear in the mist, adding to the spectacle. It’s a jaw-dropping reminder of Idaho’s untamed landscapes.

13. Illinois – Thunder Bay Falls

Tucked within The Galena Territory, Thunder Bay Falls is a charming, easy-access waterfall that’s perfect for a spontaneous nature stop. Water cascades over a rugged limestone ledge and into a wide, gentle pool that reflects the surrounding woods. It’s particularly beautiful after a rain or in early spring when the flow is strongest. Unlike remote hikes, this waterfall sits just a few feet from the parking area, making it a favorite for photographers and families. The nearby town of Galena adds historic appeal to any visit. It’s a peaceful Midwest gem with small-town charm.

14. Indiana – Cataract Falls

Indiana’s largest waterfall, Cataract Falls consists of two separate drops on Mill Creek in Lieber State Recreation Area. The upper and lower falls together drop around 86 feet, creating a thunderous flow during wetter months. Surrounded by wooded trails and rustic bridges, the falls offer excellent spots for photos and picnics. A covered bridge near the upper falls adds a historic touch. Though not tall by national standards, the falls are wide, powerful, and picturesque. It’s one of Indiana’s most scenic nature spots.

15. Iowa – Dunnings Springs

Just minutes from downtown Decorah, Dunnings Springs is a surprisingly dramatic 200-foot waterfall tucked into a wooded park. A short path leads from the parking lot directly to the base, where the falls tumble in a staircase fashion over mossy rocks. In winter, the frozen cascade creates a sparkling ice sculpture, while in summer, it’s a cool, shady retreat. Visitors often combine a stop here with a hike through nearby Ice Cave or Palisades Park. It’s a hidden gem that feels like a secret even locals cherish. For such a small town, it delivers big on natural beauty.

16. Kansas – Cowley Lake Waterfall

Kansas isn’t known for waterfalls, but Cowley Lake Waterfall is a delightful exception. Located near Arkansas City, this multi-tiered cascade tumbles over rock ledges into a shallow pool below. After heavy rains, the water rushes dramatically, but even at low flow, it’s a tranquil spot surrounded by native grasses and open sky. The short trail to the falls is unpaved but easily navigable, adding a sense of discovery to the experience. It’s one of Kansas’s best-kept natural secrets. Bring a camera—sunsets here are unforgettable.

17. Kentucky – Cumberland Falls

Known as the “Niagara of the South,” Cumberland Falls is a 125-foot-wide spectacle plunging 68 feet into the Cumberland River. Located in Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, it’s one of the only places in the Western Hemisphere where you can see a “moonbow” during full moons. The falls are accessible via paved walkways and overlook platforms, and nearby hiking trails offer alternate views through forested ridges. In spring, wildflowers frame the roaring water; in autumn, colorful leaves light up the valley. Whether you go during daylight or moonlight, Cumberland Falls is a showstopper. It’s Kentucky’s most famous and mystical natural wonder.

18. Louisiana – Rock Falls

Waterfalls are rare in low-lying Louisiana, but Rock Falls in J.C. “Sonny” Gilbert Wildlife Management Area proves the state has hidden natural treasures. At about 17 feet high, it may be modest in scale but not in beauty. Surrounded by dense woodland and steep ridges, the falls create a peaceful ambiance along the creek. Getting there requires a short but rugged hike, especially after rain. The area is rich in birdlife and perfect for nature photography. It’s a surprising pocket of elevation in an otherwise flat landscape.

19. Maine – Moxie Falls

Moxie Falls, near The Forks in western Maine, is one of New England’s tallest waterfalls at 90 feet. A scenic trail through forest and fern-covered terrain leads to several viewing platforms overlooking the thunderous plunge. The falls drop into a deep gorge, with calm pools upstream perfect for swimming or kayaking. Fall foliage transforms the area into a fiery display of reds and golds. This remote but well-maintained spot offers a true taste of Maine’s rugged wilderness. It’s a rewarding detour for hikers and paddlers alike.

20. Maryland – Muddy Creek Falls

Located in Swallow Falls State Park, Muddy Creek Falls drops 53 feet through a shady hemlock forest, making it Maryland’s highest free-falling waterfall. The surrounding park offers an easy loop trail that passes several smaller cascades, including the scenic Tolliver Falls. The rocky gorge and moss-lined cliffs make it a favorite among nature photographers. In winter, the icy flow is especially dramatic, while summer offers a refreshing break from heat. Though compact, the falls pack a visual punch. It’s a must-see for outdoor lovers exploring Maryland’s western edge.

21. Massachusetts – Bash Bish Falls

Bash Bish Falls, located in the southwestern corner of the state, is Massachusetts’ tallest and most dramatic waterfall. Water splits in two as it plunges 60 feet between steep rock walls into a sparkling turquoise pool. The hike to the falls is moderately easy and passes through scenic forest that bursts with color in autumn. Though swimming is prohibited due to strong currents, the sound and mist alone offer a refreshing experience. The area straddles the Massachusetts–New York border, making it popular with visitors from both states. Few waterfalls in New England offer such visual drama.

22. Michigan – Tahquamenon Falls

Tahquamenon Falls is one of Michigan’s most iconic natural landmarks, located in the Upper Peninsula. The upper falls stretch 200 feet across and drop nearly 50 feet, while the lower falls cascade around a small island that can be reached by rowboat. The water’s golden-brown tint, caused by tannins from cedar swamps, gives it a unique look. In winter, the falls partially freeze, creating a surreal icy landscape. Multiple trails, campgrounds, and a park brewery nearby make it ideal for extended visits. It’s a majestic reminder of the wild, untamed north.

23. Minnesota – High Falls of the Pigeon River

At 120 feet tall, the High Falls of the Pigeon River is Minnesota’s tallest waterfall, straddling the U.S.–Canada border in Grand Portage State Park. The falls are easily reached via a paved trail through birch and spruce forest. Observation decks offer close-up views of the water thundering into a gorge below, often creating misty rainbows. The area is rich in Ojibwe history, with interpretive signage and a heritage center nearby. It’s a fitting highlight in the state known for its pristine lakes and rivers. The roar of the High Falls lingers long after your visit.

24. Mississippi – Dunn’s Falls

Located near Enterprise, Dunn’s Falls is a 65-foot waterfall powered by the Chunky River and enhanced by a historic gristmill at its base. Originally engineered in the 1850s, the falls are part natural, part man-made, but fully enchanting. A park trail leads to a swimming hole, suspension bridge, and old homestead structures. It’s one of Mississippi’s best places to combine history and nature in one scenic stop. The surrounding forest is thick with pine and wildlife. Dunn’s Falls offers a peaceful glimpse into the state’s rural beauty.

25. Missouri – Mina Sauk Falls

Mina Sauk Falls is the tallest waterfall in Missouri, located on the rugged flanks of Taum Sauk Mountain—the state’s highest point. This seasonal cascade drops about 132 feet over volcanic rock, best viewed in spring or after heavy rains. The trail is rocky and moderately challenging, winding through wildflower meadows and oak-hickory forest. The view from the top of the falls extends across the St. Francois Mountains, offering one of Missouri’s best vistas. While dry in summer, the surrounding landscape is worth the trek year-round. It’s a wild, windswept corner of the Ozarks.

26. Montana – Running Eagle Falls

Also called “Trick Falls,” Running Eagle Falls in Glacier National Park is a two-in-one wonder. In spring, the waterfall crashes over the top of a cliff, while in summer, it flows from a cave halfway down, giving it an optical illusion effect. A short, wheelchair-accessible trail leads to a peaceful meadow with a perfect view. Surrounded by towering pines and sacred Blackfeet land, the setting is serene and spiritually significant. Unlike many of Glacier’s attractions, this one is uncrowded and easy to reach. It’s a quiet marvel in Big Sky Country.

27. Nebraska – Smith Falls

Tucked along the scenic Niobrara River, Smith Falls is Nebraska’s tallest waterfall at 63 feet. Fed by spring water, it flows year-round in a slender, graceful stream over a sandstone cliff. Visitors can access the falls via a short boardwalk trail that crosses the river by footbridge. In summer, the surrounding park becomes a popular tubing and kayaking spot. The mist from the falls provides a welcome refreshment after a float. It’s a gentle giant in the Cornhusker State’s underrated wilderness.

28. Nevada – Hunter Creek Falls

Just outside Reno, Hunter Creek Falls offers a surprising 30-foot cascade in a state better known for deserts than waterfalls. The moderate 6-mile round-trip hike to the falls takes you through high desert scrub and into a lush alpine canyon. In spring, melting snow swells the falls into a roaring ribbon of white water. Along the way, hikers are treated to wildflowers, forested switchbacks, and sweeping views of the Sierra Nevada. It’s a cool, green reward after a dusty climb. Hunter Creek proves Nevada has its share of hidden natural beauty.

29. New Hampshire – Arethusa Falls

Dropping 140 feet, Arethusa Falls is the tallest in New Hampshire and one of the crown jewels of the White Mountains. The trail to the falls is a 3-mile round trip through hardwood forest and rocky inclines. In peak flow, the water spills over granite cliffs in a wide, shimmering curtain. In winter, it becomes a playground for ice climbers. The falls are named after a Greek nymph, and the setting lives up to the mythological name. It’s one of New England’s most photogenic spots.

30. New Jersey – Buttermilk Falls

New Jersey’s tallest waterfall, Buttermilk Falls, cascades 85 feet down a mossy cliff in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. A steep staircase leads up the side of the falls, offering closer views and access to forest trails beyond. Despite its grandeur, it remains relatively unknown compared to other East Coast waterfalls. Spring and early summer offer the best flow, while fall colors turn the surrounding woods into a golden amphitheater. It’s a peaceful escape just a short drive from urban life. Buttermilk Falls shows off the wild heart of the Garden State.

31. New Mexico – Nambe Falls

Nestled in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Nambe Falls is one of New Mexico’s most scenic waterfalls. Located on Nambe Pueblo land, this two-tiered cascade flows into a steep, rocky canyon surrounded by desert cliffs. A short but steep hike leads to an upper overlook, while a separate trail takes you closer to the base. Seasonal flow varies, but during spring and early summer, the falls are at their most dramatic. The surrounding landscape blends red rock and lush greenery—a rare sight in New Mexico’s arid terrain. It’s a powerful combination of cultural heritage and natural wonder.

32. New York – Kaaterskill Falls

Kaaterskill Falls, a two-drop cascade totaling 260 feet, is the tallest waterfall in New York and one of its most iconic natural landmarks. Located in the Catskill Mountains, the falls have inspired painters, poets, and hikers for centuries. A scenic trail leads to both a mid-falls viewing platform and the base, offering close encounters with the roaring water. Fall is especially magical, when the forest turns brilliant shades of orange and red. The misty spray and echoing sound create an almost cathedral-like ambiance. Kaaterskill is a timeless destination in the Empire State’s wilderness.

33. North Carolina – Whitewater Falls

At 811 total feet, Whitewater Falls claims the title of the tallest waterfall east of the Rockies. Located in the Nantahala National Forest, this multi-tiered behemoth offers a dramatic drop through a heavily wooded gorge. A paved path leads to an upper overlook, with additional stairs descending to a closer view. The surrounding area is rich with rhododendron and mountain laurel, especially stunning in spring. The sheer size and thunderous sound of the falls leave a lasting impression. It’s a must-see in the waterfall-rich state of North Carolina.

34. North Dakota – Mineral Springs Waterfall

Though not known for dramatic cascades, North Dakota’s Mineral Springs Waterfall is a hidden gem located near Fort Ransom State Park. This small but charming fall tumbles over mossy rocks and into a shallow stream surrounded by prairie grasses and quiet woods. It’s best visited after recent rains, when the flow is more pronounced. The nearby trail offers solitude and a chance to spot deer and wildflowers. What it lacks in size, it makes up for in peaceful atmosphere. It’s a gentle retreat in the state’s scenic Sheyenne River Valley.

35. Ohio – Brandywine Falls

Brandywine Falls, located in Cuyahoga Valley National Park, is a 65-foot curtain of water tumbling over sandstone ledges. A boardwalk leads directly to a viewing platform where visitors can take in the full force of the falls. The surrounding gorge features layers of rock carved by centuries of flow, and the nearby trail system connects to longer hikes through hardwood forests. It’s a year-round favorite, especially in autumn when the canopy turns golden. Easily accessible yet wildly scenic, Brandywine is Ohio’s waterfall crown jewel. It perfectly showcases the hidden natural beauty of the state.

36. Oklahoma – Turner Falls

Turner Falls, at 77 feet, is the tallest waterfall in Oklahoma and the centerpiece of Turner Falls Park in the Arbuckle Mountains. The falls cascade into a turquoise swimming hole surrounded by limestone cliffs and shaded picnic areas. In summer, it’s a popular spot for swimming and camping, while cooler months offer a quieter experience and stronger flow. Nearby caves and castle-like rock formations add to the park’s charm. The water is fed by natural springs, keeping it refreshingly cool even in the heat. Turner Falls is a vibrant oasis in southern Oklahoma.

37. Oregon – Multnomah Falls

Arguably the most photographed waterfall in the Pacific Northwest, Multnomah Falls is a two-tiered stunner dropping 620 feet in total. Located in the Columbia River Gorge, it’s just a short drive from Portland but feels worlds away. A historic bridge spans the lower cascade, offering an iconic viewpoint. A paved trail leads to the upper falls for those looking to stretch their legs. Surrounded by fern-covered cliffs and misty spray, the entire scene is pure Pacific Northwest magic. Multnomah lives up to every bit of its legendary status.

38. Pennsylvania – Raymondskill Falls

As Pennsylvania’s tallest waterfall at 150 feet, Raymondskill Falls is a tiered beauty tucked within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. A short trail leads to two viewing platforms—one offering a top-down perspective and the other placing you face-to-face with the falls. While not as widely known as some others in the region, the falls rival many in beauty and scale. Spring thaw and recent rain create the most powerful flow. The nearby woods are thick with wildlife and peaceful trails. Raymondskill is an underrated highlight in Pennsylvania’s waterfall-rich northeast.

39. Rhode Island – Stepstone Falls

In tiny Rhode Island, Stepstone Falls offers a charming series of cascades rather than a single dramatic drop. Located in Arcadia Management Area, the falls gently flow over a series of flat rock ledges through dense woodland. The trail leading to the falls is peaceful, winding past ponds, streams, and quiet meadows. This is a great family-friendly hike, perfect for a leisurely picnic or birdwatching. After a good rain, the gentle flow becomes a rhythmic series of falls. It’s Rhode Island’s best-kept waterfall secret.

40. South Carolina – Raven Cliff Falls

Raven Cliff Falls is the tallest waterfall in South Carolina, plunging an impressive 420 feet into a deep mountain gorge in Caesars Head State Park. A suspension bridge offers a dramatic overhead view, while an overlook trail provides a panoramic perspective of the misty descent. The falls are especially striking after a rainy day, when they roar into the forested ravine below. Though somewhat distant, the view feels grand and otherworldly. The 4-mile hike to the overlook is part of the adventure, passing through rhododendron groves and rocky outcrops. Raven Cliff is South Carolina’s wildest waterfall spectacle.

41. South Dakota – Spearfish Falls

Tucked into the scenic Black Hills, Spearfish Falls is a 47-foot cascade nestled beneath a footbridge in the charming town of Savoy. The short trail to the base of the falls leads hikers through a shaded canyon bursting with wildflowers in summer and vibrant leaves in fall. The waterfall spills over a sandstone ledge into Spearfish Creek, surrounded by dense pine forest. Though smaller than some, its accessibility and photogenic setting make it a local favorite. It’s a peaceful stop amid the larger wonders of the Black Hills. Few places in South Dakota blend tranquility and natural beauty this seamlessly.

42. Tennessee – Fall Creek Falls

Standing 256 feet tall, Fall Creek Falls is not only Tennessee’s highest waterfall but also one of the tallest in the eastern U.S. Located in Fall Creek Falls State Park, the falls plunge dramatically into a rocky gorge surrounded by cliffs and forest. Visitors can view the cascade from multiple platforms or hike down into the gorge for a bottom-up perspective. The park also features additional waterfalls, swimming holes, and miles of hiking trails. Fall colors and misty mornings elevate its already majestic appearance. It’s one of the South’s premier waterfall destinations.

43. Texas – Gorman Falls

Hidden within Colorado Bend State Park, Gorman Falls is a lush, 70-foot cascade fed by spring water that flows over limestone and moss-covered rock. The hike to the falls is about 3 miles round-trip and takes visitors through rugged Hill Country terrain. When you arrive, the scene feels almost tropical—vibrant green mosses, misty spray, and hanging ferns tucked into a cliffside. The falls are off-limits for swimming to protect the delicate ecosystem, but the view alone is worth the effort. Gorman Falls is one of Texas’s most unexpectedly lush landscapes. It’s a hidden Eden deep in the Lone Star State.

44. Utah – Lower Calf Creek Falls

Set against the dramatic red rock of Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument, Lower Calf Creek Falls is a 126-foot ribbon of water plunging into a turquoise pool. The 6-mile round-trip hike follows a canyon lined with ancient petroglyphs, desert flora, and soaring sandstone walls. The waterfall appears suddenly at the end, a lush and cool oasis in stark contrast to the surrounding desert. It’s swimmable, and the natural amphitheater amplifies the sound of water echoing off the cliffs. This is one of Utah’s most unforgettable waterfall experiences. It combines adventure, serenity, and natural wonder in one hike.

45. Vermont – Moss Glen Falls (Stowe)

Located just minutes from the town of Stowe, Moss Glen Falls is one of Vermont’s most beloved and photogenic waterfalls. It tumbles gracefully over 125 feet of terraced rock, framed by thick maple forest that blazes with color in the fall. A short, easy trail leads to a scenic overlook, while a more challenging climb brings visitors closer to the top. The water fans out over the rocks in a delicate, lace-like pattern. In winter, it transforms into a stunning frozen cascade. Moss Glen is a quintessential Vermont waterfall—accessible, graceful, and seasonally spectacular.

46. Virginia – Crabtree Falls

Crabtree Falls is the tallest cascading waterfall east of the Mississippi, dropping a total of 1,200 feet over a series of rock ledges. A well-maintained trail with multiple viewing platforms follows the waterfall closely, allowing hikers to experience the falls from base to summit. The trail is lined with rhododendrons and mountain laurel, making spring hikes especially scenic. Mist from the falls cools the air and nourishes a thriving moss-covered ecosystem. At the top, panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains await. Crabtree is one of Virginia’s crown jewels for outdoor lovers.

47. Washington – Palouse Falls

Palouse Falls, plunging 200 feet into a basalt canyon, is the official state waterfall of Washington—and it’s a sight to behold. Surrounded by a dramatic high desert landscape, the falls offer a contrast to the lush rainforests the state is often known for. Sunset and sunrise paint the cliffs in warm hues, and the roar of the falls can be heard from overlook trails. Though remote, the park features picnic areas and interpretive signs explaining the area’s Ice Age geology. Photographers and nature lovers alike flock here for its raw, isolated beauty. Palouse is the desert waterfall you never expected.

48. West Virginia – Blackwater Falls

Tumbling 57 feet into a rugged gorge, Blackwater Falls is the centerpiece of Blackwater Falls State Park in the Allegheny Mountains. The water gets its amber color from tannins leached from fallen hemlock and spruce needles, giving the falls a distinctive hue. A series of wooden stairs and viewing platforms offer different vantage points, including a dramatic overlook near the base. The park is also home to dense forest, trails, and scenic vistas. In winter, the falls partially freeze, creating a crystalline display. It’s one of West Virginia’s most photographed natural wonders.

49. Wisconsin – Big Manitou Falls

Standing at 165 feet, Big Manitou Falls is the tallest waterfall in Wisconsin and one of the tallest in the Midwest. Located in Pattison State Park near Superior, the falls thunder down dark volcanic rock into the Black River below. Trails and observation points allow for both distant views and up-close appreciation. The name “Manitou” comes from Native American lore, referring to the great spirit believed to dwell in the falls. The roar and spray leave a lasting impression, especially in spring. Big Manitou lives up to its name in every sense.

50. Wyoming – Yellowstone Falls (Lower Falls)

Lower Falls in Yellowstone National Park is an icon of the American West, dropping an awe-inspiring 308 feet into the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. The emerald-colored water stands out against the canyon’s golden and red hues. Several vantage points, including Artist Point and Uncle Tom’s Trail, provide unforgettable views of the roaring cascade. The falls are especially thunderous during the spring snowmelt. Surrounded by geothermal features and wildlife, it’s a centerpiece in one of the country’s most famous parks. No list of waterfalls is complete without it.

This article was written by a human and edited with AI Assistance