
Waterfall hiking trails are among the most popular outdoor attractions in the U.S. According to the National Park Service, millions of tourists visit waterfalls annually, drawn by their beauty and the serenity of the surrounding nature. Most of these visitors choose the best waterfall hikes that offer incredible views and safe, well-maintained paths.
Multnomah Falls Trail, Oregon

The Multnomah Falls Trail leads to the awe-inspiring 620-foot Multnomah Falls, the tallest waterfall in Oregon. This stunning two-tiered cascade plunges over basalt cliffs, and its well-maintained paths lead through scenic, dense forests. Multnomah Falls is the most-visited natural recreation site in the Pacific Northwest, attracting over two million annual visitors.
Yosemite Falls Trail, California

Stretching approximately 7.6 miles round trip to the top of North America’s tallest waterfall, the Yosemite Falls Trail is challenging yet rewarding. It begins near Camp 4 and ascends through switchbacks that offer stunning views of the falls and the surrounding topography, including formations like Half Dome and Sentinel Rock.
Havasu Falls Trail, Arizona

This hidden gem, accessible through a trek within the Grand Canyon, leads to turquoise-blue waters and red rock vistas. The contrast of the falls against the arid desert creates a breathtaking scene. Havasu Falls Trail begins at Hualapai Hilltop and rises to about 1,800 feet in the first two miles.
Rainbow Falls Trail, Tennessee

Hikers traveling through the Rainbow Falls Trail are treated to an 80-foot waterfall that shimmers in the sunlight and creates a rainbow effect on clear days. Located in the Great Smoky Mountains, the moderate-to-strenuous hike spans 5.4 miles roundtrip with a total elevation gain of 1,685 feet.
Bridal Veil Falls Trail, Colorado

Colorado’s Bridal Veil Falls Trail features the state’s tallest free-falling waterfall. It is located near Telluride and is loved by locals and tourists. Though the trail includes rocky terrain and steep ascents, beautiful views of the beautiful mountains and the roaring sound of the falls are more than enough compensation.
Falls Trail, Pennsylvania

Ricketts Glen State Park’s Falls Trail is famous for its 21 named waterfalls, with heights ranging from 11 feet to the stunning 94-foot Ganoga Falls. These falls are scattered along a 7.2-mile route, described as “the most magnificent hike in the state” and ranked among “the top hikes in the East.”
Waimea Canyon Trail, Hawaii

Hiking the Waimea Canyon Trail in Kauai brings you face-to-face with Waipo’o Falls, known for its vibrant colors. As you approach Waipo’o Falls, the roar of the cascading water becomes audible, inviting you to either relax at the cliff’s edge or scramble down to a tranquil pool below.
Shoshone Falls Park, Idaho

Known as the “Niagara of the West,” Shoshone Falls in Idaho offers an impressive 212-foot drop and spans 900 feet. It creates a stunning visual spectacle as it cascades into the Snake River Canyon. The park’s trail offers several viewpoints, the most popular being the Canyon Rim Trail.
Amicalola Falls Trail, Georgia

Georgia’s Amicalola Falls Trail leads to the base of the state’s tallest waterfall, dropping 729 feet. Staircases with over 60 steps and viewing platforms allow visitors to appreciate the fall’s power and beauty from various perspectives. As you ascend, expect to encounter vibrant wildflowers in spring and colorful foliage in autumn.
Columbia River Gorge Trail, Oregon

The Columbia River Gorge Trail in Oregon offers a collection of waterfall hikes, with the highlight being Wahkeena Falls. This tiered cascade is surrounded by lush greenery that attracts photographers and nature enthusiasts. The trail also leads to Multnomah Falls and Punchbowl Falls, famous for their awe-inspiring geological formations.
Upper Whitewater Falls Trail, North Carolina

Standing at 411 feet, Upper Whitewater Falls in North Carolina is one of the tallest waterfalls east of the Rockies. It begins with a paved 1/4-mile walkway that leads to an upper overlook, accessible for wheelchairs and offering satisfying views of the cascades and the surrounding forests.
Silver Falls State Park Trail, Oregon

Silver Falls State Park features the Trail of Ten Falls, which takes hikers through picturesque waterfalls. You can walk behind the falls and feel the mist on your skin. The loop trail winds through lush old-growth forests and rocky canyons and showcases ten breathtaking waterfalls along Silver Creek.
Blackwater Falls Trail, West Virginia

West Virginia’s Blackwater Falls Trail leads to a 57-foot waterfall that tumbles into an amber-hued river. The falls’ dark color, caused by tannic acid from fallen hemlock and red spruce needles, makes the trail’s atmosphere unique. Blackwater Falls is often visited for its picturesque views, complemented by several overlooks.
Twin Falls Trail, Washington

Twin Falls Trail in Washington State provides hikers with close-up views of the tallest waterfall along the South Fork of the Snoqualmie River. This moderately challenging trail meanders through a rich, mossy forest filled with diverse flora and leads to various twin waterfalls best seen after a fresh rainfall.
Niagara Gorge Trail, New York

While not directly at Niagara Falls, the Niagara Gorge Trail in New York offers delightful views of the river and surrounding falls for an adventurous person. Hikers are treated to a 300-foot deep, 7-mile-long gorge formed by the relentless power of the falls over 12,500 years.