23 National Parks with Breathtaking Waterfalls

Are you looking to chase some waterfalls? National parks are some of the most beautiful places on Earth. They’re filled with natural wonders that will take your breath away and leave you in awe. If you love waterfalls, then these 23 national parks are perfect for seeing amazing cascades that will make your jaw drop. From Acadia to Zion National Park, there is no shortage of incredible national park waterfalls to see!

You can get up close and personal with nature at any one of these stunning national parks. There’s nothing quite like taking in the sights of some of the best waterfalls in the country. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and explore, starting with this post on breathtaking national park waterfalls.

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Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park in Maine is one of the oldest national parks in America. Many people love Acadia for the wide variety of wildlife that they can see while visiting. One can also enjoy some incredible views in the park with mountains, lakes, and coastal areas.

While all of that is beautiful in its own way, one of the hidden gems in the park is its waterfalls. While they may not be the tallest or widest waterfalls you’ve seen, there are a handful of beautiful waterfalls at Acadia National Park.

If you are looking for a wonderful place to visit where you will not only get some time away from it all but can also see some of the most spectacular nature in the country, Acadia National Park is one place that you won’t want to miss.

When visiting, the best waterfalls are located on the park’s carriage roads. Built by John D. Rockefeller, Jr. and later donated to the National Park Service, these historic pathways are one of the most unique ways to explore Acadia. Along the way are sixteen scenic bridges.

There are a few waterfalls along the carriage roads, but the most well-known is Hadlock Falls. Hadlock Falls is located at Waterfall Bridge on the Hadlock Loop. You can walk across the bridge to view the fall or you can walk below the bridge to see the unique architecture framing the beautiful cascade. This waterfall is best during periods of heavy rain or in spring during the snowmelt.

Crater Lake National Park

Crater Lake National Park is one of the most beautiful and incredible national parks in America. It is one of the national parks in Oregon and was established as a national park in 1902. This park is full of natural wonders that are sure to take your breath away and leave you feeling inspired. Crater Lake National Park is also a great destination for waterfall enthusiasts.

One of the most popular waterfalls at Crater Lake National Park is Plaikni Falls (pictured above). The falls are both breathtakingly beautiful and incredibly powerful. It’s an easy 2-mile roundtrip hike to reach the falls. Another popular waterfall in the park is Vidae Falls, which can be seen along East Rim Drive.

Crater Lake National Park is a wonderful place to visit, especially for those who are looking for some beautiful waterfalls and incredible nature.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Cuyahoga Valley National Park is one of the hidden gems of America. This Ohio national park is filled with natural hills and valleys, forests, and farms. There are over 20 waterfalls in this wonderful park!

The most popular waterfall is Brandywine Falls, pictured above. This fall is about 65 feet tall, making it one of the most beautiful sights in the park. You can get up close to this falls if you go on the boardwalk that will take you right up next to it! You can download a map of the Brandywine Falls area trails here. The loop is an easy and fairly level 1.5-mile stroll.

More Cuyahoga Valley National Park waterfalls include Blue Hen Falls and Bridalveil Falls.

There’s so much to do while you’re here at Cuyahoga Valley National Park. You can explore historic buildings such as gristmills, carriage sheds, or historical societies. You can also go on the Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath Trail, which is a 20-mile trail that takes you past the most stunning natural areas of the park.

For those who love national park waterfalls, a visit to Cuyahoga Valley is a must!

Devils Postpile National Monument

Devils Postpile National Monument is in the Sierra Nevada Mountains and is one of the most beautiful national parks in California. There are three different basalt columns at this site that are made from ancient volcanic rock. The geological formations of Devils Postpile National Monument date back to 760,000 years ago!

It’s important to note that it is illegal to climb up any of the columns, so please do not damage or disturb this historic site.

Once you’ve marveled at the unique geology, I recommend hiking to Rainbow Falls. This 109-foot waterfall is visible from the lower falls viewing area and the top of the Upper Falls. True to its name, rainbows are often visible in the summer months.

Visitors interested in hiking moderate distances can follow a trail to this lovely fall, but be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen for your family and friends. The 2.5-mile trail begins near the Ranger Station.

Minaret Falls is another option for those seeking beautiful national park waterfalls.

George Washington Memorial Parkway

One of the most well-known national parks waterfalls is Great Falls in northern Virginia. Near Washington, DC, this is a popular location for city dwellers looking for respite.

At the park, there are three different overlooks for viewing. Overlooks 2 and 3 are accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. Overlook 1 is the closest you will get to the falls themselves. At Overlook 2, you can see most of the falls. Overlook 3, however, is the best view of the falls, showcasing them in their entirety. While you’re there, check out the marker poles to see how high the waters have reached during floods.

Great Falls Park is protected as part of the George Washington Memorial Parkway, a scenic drive between northern Virginia and the nation’s capital. The landscape of the falls is influenced by the Potomac River. There are also over two dozen different species of animals, plants, and fish here at the Great Falls Park. Across the Potomac River is Maryland’s Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park.

Glacier National Park

Believe it or not, Glacier National Park is home to 42 named waterfalls. They vary in size, but they all make a spectacular sight. There is no shortage of beauty here at Glacier National Park.

The most famous waterfall found here is Virginia Falls. Along the same trail, you can also view St. Mary Falls (pictured), another popular option. Getting to these involves walking on relatively easy and short trails.

Other falls may be harder to get to, but it’s definitely worth it for the beauty and tranquility. While you’re visiting Glacier  National Park, check out Running Eagle Falls, Florence Falls, Sacred Dancing Cascade, McDonald Galls, Apikuni Falls, Rockwell Falls, and more!

Grand Canyon National Park

The most famous waterfalls in the Grand Canyon are likely Havasu Falls. However, those are not within the boundary of Grand Canyon National Park.

But don’t worry, the park still has some amazing falls to showcase. And, in my opinion, these are some of the most beautiful national park waterfalls due to the contrasting red rock surrounding the cascades. That said, many of the waterfalls in Grand Canyon National Park can only be reached after strenuous hikes or while backpacking.

If you’re up for that challenge, one of the most popular Grand Canyon National Park waterfalls is Ribbon Falls. Found on the popular Rim to Rim hike, this is the second most popular waterfall in the Grand Canyon (after Havasu Falls).

Other falls include Elves Chasm (pictured), Thunder River, Cheyava, and Deer Creek. If you’re planning on overnight hiking while you’re visiting Grand Canyon National Park, why not visit a waterfall along the way?

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the best national parks to visit to see waterfalls. There are over 60 waterfalls here in the North Carolina and Tennessee regions. The terrain is home to many different ecosystems, so there are plenty of different plants and animals found at Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

The park is abundant with waterfalls thanks to ample rainfall and its elevation gradient. The park receives over 85 inches of rain every year!

Some of the park’s most popular waterfalls include Grotto, Laurel, Abrams, and Rainbow.

Grotto Falls is surrounded by a beautiful old-growth hemlock forest on the Trillium Gap Trail. Laurel Falls (pictured above) is one of the most popular things to do in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The easy trail will lead you to a gorgeous 80-foot fall.

Abrams Falls is only 20 feet high, but contains some of the best volumes of all the national park waterfalls. Rainbow Falls is also taller at around 80 feet. In the summer months, a nice mist may flow from the falls and onto the trail.

Over 200,000 visitors a year visit these locations, but there are other national park waterfalls located away from the crowds. Some other national park waterfalls include Hen Wallow, Indian Creek, Toms Branch, Juney Whank, Lynn Camp Prong, Mingo, Mouse Creek, Ramsey, and so many more.

You might not immediately think of Great Smoky Mountains National Park when you think “waterfalls,” but it is definitely a stop you need to make when visiting this area. These falls are well worth the visit and will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated!

Many of these falls can be seen as day hikes or quick walks from the parking lot. For a map of all the Great Smoky Mountains National Park waterfalls, click here. Note that Laurel Falls is shifting to a reservation system in 2022 in order to combat overcrowding.

Haleakala National Park

Haleakala is home to many different national park waterfalls on the island of Maui.

Waterfall enthusiasts should hike the Pīpīwai Trail in the coastal Kīpahulu District. This trail leads to views of Makahiku Falls.  Reaching this viewpoint is only 0.5 miles up the otherwise steep and strenuous trail. Those who continue are rewarded with views of the stunning Waimoku Falls. Reaching this point is a 2-mile walk with 800 feet of elevation gain.

For shorter falls and an easier hike, try the Kūloa Point Trail. This trail leaves the Kīpahulu Visitor Center and continues to Kūloa Point at ‘Ohe’o Gulch (pictured above). This may be the most famous waterfall at Haleakala National Park. Also known as the Seven Sacred Pools, they are absolutely beautiful and definitely worth a visit when visiting this national park.

Along the way, you’ll also find beautiful ocean views and archaeological sites. The pools are sometimes closed to swimming because of hazardous conditions.

If you’re looking for somewhere to escape from the real world for a few days, this is definitely a place you should consider going to. With its beautiful waterfalls and lush vegetation, there are endless opportunities for fun things to do in Haleakala National Park.

Katmai National Park & Preserve

There aren’t many Alaska national park waterfalls, but Brooks Falls in Katmai National Park would likely take the prize for most scenic no matter what.

In addition to its dazzling cascades, Brooks Falls is also home to an annual salmon run. Every summer from June to October, the Brooks River in Katmai National Park receives one of nature’s most amazing shows as it plays host to millions of sockeye salmon. These fish swim upriver where they spawn and die, providing food for many animals native to the area.

The main salmon consumers are the park’s famous grizzly bears. When the salmon are running, visitors sometimes wait patiently for hours to get a glimpse of one of these majestic creatures. If you’re lucky, you might even witness one of the bears catch a jumping salmon.

The best time to see this natural wonder is during July and August when the salmon are running. People come from all over the world to witness the sight of bears catching their dinner. Visitors can walk along a boardwalk that runs next to the river to safely view this natural phenomenon.

Kings Canyon National Park

Rushing waterfalls are some of the most stunning natural features in Kings Canyon National Park. The roaring Kings River is home to many beautiful falls, including Mist and Grizzly Falls.

The national park waterfalls come from snowmelt and rain, which makes for a perfect summertime sightseeing spot. Of course, these falls aren’t just appealing because they’re aesthetically pleasing. They also provide some of the best shade in Kings Canyon National Park.

The Kings Canyon National Park waterfalls are also great for those who can’t walk too far. Roaring River Falls (pictured) and Grizzly Falls (located in Sequoia National Forest) are both only a short walk from the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway. If you want to walk a bit farther, Mist Falls is a popular destination.

The best part about the waterfalls in Kings Canyon National Park? They rarely dry up unlike the falls in nearby Sequoia National Park.

Mississippi National River & Recreation Area

Near the bustling twin cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul, you’ll find the headquarters and visitor center for Mississippi National River and Recreation Area. Within walking distance of the city is an incredible waterfall.

Minnehaha Falls gained national fame when Henry Wadsworth Longfellow wrote his poem Song of the Hiawatha. Despite his vivid writing, he never actually visited the falls. To see the 53-foot falls yourself, descend on a staircase for a great view from below. The trail continues for more adventurous hikers looking for a longer trip.

Mount Rainier National Park

Mount Rainier National Park is home to more than twenty named waterfalls.

Narada Falls (pictured) is one of the most popular and impressive falls in Mount Rainier. While the walk to the base is short, it’s also very steep. To reward you for your hard work, you’ll be treated to a stunning view of the falls and likely some of the water’s mist to cool you off.

Other popular national park waterfalls include Ohanapecosh, Falls Creek, Deer Creek, Ranger, and Skookum. Some waterfalls in Mount Rainier require long hikes while others are visible after a short walk from your car. To learn more about the many waterfalls in the park, click here.

Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park

Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park is located in Paterson, New Jersey. The falls are 40 feet high and drop over a ledge of rocks into a gorge below.

The park was established to commemorate its significance as an industrial center during the Industrial Revolution. Here, Alexander Hamilton sparked the idea of hydropower with the force of these falls. Since then, its contribution to American arts, culture, and industry has been astounding.

It’s also home to one of the most popular urban parks in New Jersey. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails that lead them past waterfalls, ponds, forests, fields, and streams.

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

There are a surprising number of waterfalls at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Many of them are the result of water running over a shelf or cliff.

Most of the waterfalls here must be accessed by foot. It’s important to stay on trail at all times.

The park’s most popular falls include Munising, Bridalveil, Mosquito, Chapel, Sable, Miners, and others.

Munising Falls, pictured above, is one of the easiest to access. The short trail leads up a scenic canyon to the base of the falls. The trail is paved. Then, two sets of stairs lead to additional viewing platforms. Miners Falls is the most powerful in the park with a steep 50-foot drop. The walk here is only 1.2 miles roundtrip.

Pipestone National Monument

Pipestone National Monument, located in southern Minnesota, is home to a large pipestone quarry. This has been used for countless centuries. The stone and grounds are sacred to local tribes who use the stone for prayer.

The paved Circle Trail is one of the best ways to see the park. The trail is only 0.75 miles long, but with so much to see along the way it is advised that visitors allow an hour for the walk. Among other attractions, you’ll get to see several pipestone quarries and the gorgeous Winnewissa Falls.

Winnewissa Falls is located about halfway along the Circle Trail. It’s unique since you wouldn’t necessarily expect a large cascade in the middle of the prairie. If you have at least an hour to explore, I’d highly recommend it.

If you visit between April and October, park rangers may be leading guided tours of the Circle Trail.

Point Reyes National Seashore

For waterfall seekers looking for an epic adventure, visit Point Reyes National Seashore. Here, a 13-mile roundtrip hike through the Phillip Burton Wilderness will take you to a 40-foot waterfall.

The base of Alamere Falls is very popular and can be overcrowded.

It’s important to note that there is no “Alamere Falls Trail” despite what multiple apps or maps may tell you. The advertised “trail” to this waterfall is not maintained, so that particular hike is not recommended. Instead, read our Alamere Falls hiking guide to learn about the recommended routes so you can visit safely.

Rocky Mountain National Park

While the Rocky Mountain National Park waterfalls are all marvelous, all but one of them requires hiking.

Chasm Falls is visible by car on Old Fall River Road. During its peak, the 30-foot falls crash loudly into the rocks below.

Those up for a hike can find multiple waterfalls on the trails in the park. Start on Glacier Gorge Trail to see Alberta Falls (pictured), Glacier Falls, and Ribbon Falls on your way to Black Lake. Alternatively, you can take the Wild Basin Trail to Copeland Falls, Calypso Cascades, and Ouzel Falls (featured as one of our favorite hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park).

There are other hikes to small waterfalls on the west side of the park as well. After driving Trail Ridge Road, hike the Tonahutu/North Inlet Trail to see Cascade Falls, War Dance Falls, and North Inlet Falls. Alternatively, the East Inlet Trail brings you to Adams Falls after only 0.3 miles of hiking.

Sequoia National Park

Famous for hosting the largest trees on Earth, Sequoia National Park is also home to a few waterfalls. The two national park waterfalls you can hike to are Marble Falls, located in the Foothills, and Tokopah Falls, located near the Giant Forest.

Marble Falls is best in the spring. The trail is almost entirely exposed with no relief from the heat, so hiking the trail in the summer is not recommended. The hike is long, about 8 miles roundtrip, and involves very strenuous climbing.

Tokopah Falls (pictured) is a more moderate hike. It’s also about half the distance of the trek to Marble Falls. You’ll hike across the beautiful Tokopah Valley over many exposed rocks and roots to reach the falls. It’s also a stunning icefall in the winter. It’s best to hike here in early summer. The water is typically dry by early July. If not entirely dry, you may find what park rangers call the Tokopah Trickle.

Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park is nearly synonymous with waterfalls. In fact, it probably has more of them than any other national park in the country.

One of the most popular waterfalls found here is Lewis Spring Falls. This stunning waterfall is known for its four cascades. The falls are located within a half-mile of Skyline Drive and make for easy viewing during your next trip to Shenandoah National Park.

Another great waterfall in the park is Dark Hollow Falls (pictured), but this one will require some steep climbing. Visiting Dark Hollow Falls is one of the top things to do in Shenandoah National Park, so prepare for crowds.

Other great national park waterfalls include Whiteoak Falls, Rose River Falls, or Cedar Run. All of these, in addition to Dark Hollow Falls and Lewis Spring Falls, are featured in our list of the 15 best hikes in Shenandoah National Park.

Yellowstone National Park

Every park visitor has likely included the famous Lower Falls in their Yellowstone itinerary, but there are many other national park waterfalls to be found here.

Yellowstone Canyon’s Upper Falls are another great option similar to the Lower Falls. You can view them from your car at multiple points, so no hiking is required. Undine Falls and Rustic Falls can also be viewed from the road.

Tower Fall and Crystal Falls both require minimal walking. Both are very tall and incredibly stunning. Gibbon Falls is smaller, but another short and easy walk.

Yosemite National Park

Like Shenandoah or Great Smoky Mountains, you may think of Yosemite and immediately associate it with waterfalls. It’s easy to do, as the park is home to the tallest waterfall in the country.

Yosemite Falls (pictured) crashes down a whopping 2,245 feet to the valley floor. There are many short and easy hikes near the base to view the lower falls. It’s one of the best things to do in Yosemite Valley. Thrill-seekers can also climb dozens of switchbacks to the top.

Another challenge is the Mist Trail, a hike that leads to Vernal Falls and Nevada Falls.

Another thing to add to your Yosemite itinerary for waterfall enthusiasts is Bridalveil Falls. This can be seen on the short walk from the parking area or from the historic and famous Tunnel View point.

If you visit Yosemite in winter, you can’t miss the rare Yosemite Firefall phenomenon.

Zion National Park

Last but not least, Zion National Park waterfalls are scarce but surprisingly stunning.

The most famous is likely the Emerald Pools, pictured above. There are three sections: Upper, Middle, and Lower. These are some of my favorite hikes in Zion.

Those hiking the Narrows, a hair-raising hike in the Virgin River through a canyon, may see waterfalls along the canyon walls. The same goes for the Subway section several miles down the trail.

Pin the Best National Parks to Visit for Stunning Waterfalls

Waterfalls are one of the most popular national park attractions and a must-see for many visitors. It’s worth noting that they’re not all alike, which is why it can be helpful to research your destination before you go. Some waterfalls require an uphill hike while others may have a more accessible view. National park waterfalls often offer multiple viewing options so make sure you plan ahead when visiting!