7 Most Impressive Waterfalls in the U.S. You Must See

Traveling around the world and visiting interesting and stunning places is something most of us enjoy. While some of us prefer sightseeing in busy cities or relaxing on a stunning beach, others are more interested in going out into nature and exploring all the gorgeous sites that this planet has to offer. In case you belong to the latter group, you might be looking for some remote or hidden places that are simply breathtaking. Waterfalls most certainly qualify, so keep on reading to learn more about the seven most impressive ones in the United States.

Waimoku Falls, Hawaii

Traveling to Hawaii is an experience in itself but going on hikes in search of waterfalls is something else entirely. If you’re visiting Maui, you can make your way to the 400-foot tall Waimoku Falls. The steep lava-rock wall creates quite a unique picture. While falling rocks do not allow swimming, the trip there and the sights you will see will make it all worth your while. However, before setting off on your journey, check the current conditions with the local visitors center.

Havasu Falls, Arizona

Havasu Canyon, which is adjacent to the Grand Canyon National Park, is home to the amazing Havasu Falls. At the bottom of the falls, you will encounter natural swimming pools whose temperature is around 70 degrees F. all year long. However, keep in mind that the waterfalls and the surrounding area are managed by the Havasupai people and you will need to make a reservation in advance, seeing as how the tribe limits the number of visitors. Furthermore, the village and the falls can only be accessed by horseback or hiking for 10 miles but the conditions are excellent and once you see the beauty of this place, all will be worth it.

Niagara Falls, New York

Seeing as how the famous Niagara Falls are probably the first place you thought of, we cannot dare not to put them on this list. Situated on the border between Canada and the U.S., this waterfall actually consists of three different falls, of which the American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls are entirely on U.S. territory and the Horseshoe Falls are on the international border. While you can visit the Falls any time of the year, summer is the best period but do keep in mind that this is a huge tourist attraction and you can expect the place to be swarming with people. However, due to it being so popular, you can find all sorts of activities and accommodation nearby.

Nugget Falls, Alaska

While plenty of Juneau shore excursions include a visit to Nugget Falls as part of their offer, they are also accessible on their own. You will have to make way over a graveled path but the sight of these beautiful falls will surely make you want to do it all over again. Positioned at the end of Mendenhall Glacier, Nugget Falls have a two-tiered drop formed from a glacial creek and are flowing into the Mendenhall Lake.

Union Falls, Wyoming

While Yellowstone National Park is quite famous, it is also home to a little gem that not a lot of people know about. Reaching Union Falls might be a bit challenging as it requires a 15-mile hike that includes passing through a habitat of grizzly bears, serious elevation change and a river ford but once you reach it, you will see that the reward was well worth the trek. The 260ft drop will definitely take your breath away and after you’re done here, you can also take a dip in the geothermally-heated Ouzel Pool. If you’re not faint of heart, this is a must.

Calf Creek Falls, Utah

Another stunning sight is the Calf Creek Falls in Utah’s Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. There are two falls – the lower falls (130 feet) and the upper falls (88 feet) – and they both have natural swimming pools that you can swim in; of course, if it’s not too crowded. The lower ones are more popular, however, as they offer more scenic views on the way and a relatively easy hike. Plus, the surrounding sandstone cliffs make for an amazing postcard-like backdrop.

Ruby Falls, Tennessee

Tennessee has one of the most unique waterfalls in the world. Ruby Falls is located 1,120 feet under Lookout Mountain in Chattanooga. In addition to the 145-foot-tall waterfalls, you can also visit the surrounding caves and snap up some amazing sights. There are guided daily tours, so you are sure to have a great experience.

Even though we have singled out only seven waterfalls, there are so many more in the United States that you can visit. When you start planning your journey, make sure you understand the difficulty of the trails, check the weather conditions and see whether there are permits that you must have before entering a certain area. Other than that, pick a location and have fun exploring!