25 Breathtaking U.S. Waterfalls off the Beaten Track

The United States enjoys many beautiful landscapes, including many breathtaking waterfalls. We’ve found 25 waterfalls tucked away on quieter, less-traveled paths. These serene spots offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle, perfect for anyone seeking a tranquil experience in nature.

Ramona Falls, Oregon

Ramona Falls is a 120-foot cascade of glistening water tucked inside Mt. Hood National Forest. The hike to this waterfall is a 7-mile round-trip, weaving through old-growth forests and crossing a scenic footbridge over the Sandy River.

Cummins Falls, Tennessee

Located in Cummins Falls State Park, this 75-foot waterfall on the Blackburn Fork River is a secluded spot that fans are desperate to keep quiet about. A moderate hike will lead you to the base of the falls, where you can enjoy a refreshing swim in the natural pool and breathe in the natural air.

Alamere Falls, California

One of the few waterfalls in the U.S. that flows directly into the ocean, Alamere Falls is located in Point Reyes National Seashore. This waterfall requires a 13-mile round-trip hike, but the reward of seeing the water drop onto the Pacific beach makes it worth the trek.

Mooney Falls, Arizona

Havasupai Falls in the Grand Canyon is world-famous, but Mooney Falls is the lesser-known yet equally captivating neighbor. Requiring a steep descent down a series of ladders and tunnels, this 200-foot waterfall in Havasu Canyon is both thrilling and awe-inspiring.

Franklin Falls, Washington

A short, easy hike in the Cascade Mountains leads to Franklin Falls, a 70-foot waterfall framed by lush greenery and granite cliffs. Visit the Mountain in winter to see it transformed into an icy wonderland.

Slick Rock Falls, North Carolina

Located in Pisgah National Forest, Slick Rock Falls may be smaller than some, but its secluded location and moss-covered rocks create an idyllic setting for those seeking solitude and serenity.

Crabtree Falls, Virginia

Hidden in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Crabtree Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls east of the Mississippi River, cascading nearly 1,200 feet down a series of rocky tiers. A 3-mile round-trip hike offers stunning views at every turn.

Mary Falls, Montana

Tucked away in Glacier National Park, St. Mary Falls is a multi-tiered waterfall that flows into a vivid turquoise pool. The short hike through wildflower meadows and cedar forests adds to the magic of this hidden gem.

Hickory Nut Falls, North Carolina

Hidden in Chimney Rock State Park, Hickory Nut Falls is a 404-foot waterfall featured in the movie The Last of the Mohicans. It’s an easy hike to the base, making it perfect for families and nature lovers alike.

Bridal Veil Falls, Utah

Just a short drive from Provo, Bridal Veil Falls is a towering 607-foot waterfall located in Provo Canyon. While it’s easy to access from the road, its surrounding cliffs and misty atmosphere create a tranquil escape from the everyday.

King’s Creek Falls, California

Located in Lassen Volcanic National Park, King’s Creek Falls is a hidden treasure in northern California. The 30-foot waterfall is accessed via a picturesque trail through wildflower-filled meadows and volcanic terrain.

Union Falls, Wyoming

Yellowstone is known for its geysers, but Union Falls in the Bechler region is one of its best-kept secrets. This 250-foot double waterfall is located in a remote section of the park, requiring a 16-mile round-trip hike.

Whiteoak Canyon Falls, Virginia

Tucked away in Shenandoah National Park, Whiteoak Canyon Falls consists of six waterfalls that cascade over smooth boulders. A 4.6-mile hike takes you deep into the heart of the park, where you can soak up the peaceful atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle of working life.

Cedar Creek Falls, California

Accessible via a 6-mile round-trip hike, Cedar Creek Falls in San Diego County is a hidden oasis in the desert. Its 80-foot cascade flows into a deep, inviting swimming hole to witness the beauty of nature.

Waimoku Falls, Hawaii

Located at the end of the Pipiwai Trail in Haleakalā National Park, Waimoku Falls is a towering 400-foot waterfall that plunges over a sheer cliff. The hike to reach it takes you through a bamboo forest, adding to its mystical atmosphere.

Lulumahu Falls, Hawaii

Tucked away in the mountains of Oahu, Lulumahu Falls requires a 2-mile hike through dense jungle, crisscrossing streams and climbing over rocks. The waterfall, framed by tropical foliage, feels like a hidden oasis.

Toketee Falls, Oregon

Known for its unique columnar basalt formations, Toketee Falls is a striking waterfall located in the Umpqua National Forest. A short trail leads to a viewpoint overlooking the two-tiered waterfall, which plunges 113 feet into a deep blue pool.

Ozone Falls, Tennessee

Hidden in the Cumberland Plateau, Ozone Falls is a 110-foot waterfall that plunges into a misty gorge. The surrounding moss-covered cliffs and towering trees give it an otherworldly feel, making it a perfect retreat for solitude seekers.

Triple Falls, Oregon

Tucked away in the Columbia River Gorge, Triple Falls features three parallel waterfalls cascading down the mountainside. A moderate hike through lush forest leads to the viewpoint, offering breathtaking views of this natural wonder.

Elakala Falls, West Virginia

Located in Blackwater Falls State Park, Elakala Falls is a series of waterfalls that cascade down a rocky gorge. Although less famous than Blackwater Falls, Elakala is a hidden treasure for those willing to explore the park’s quieter trails.

Curtis Falls, Washington

Located in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, Curtis Falls is a hidden gem surrounded by towering old-growth trees. The hike to this secluded 50-foot waterfall is short but steep, rewarding adventurers with a tranquil, moss-draped scene.

Panther Creek Falls, Georgia

Hidden in the Chattahoochee National Forest, Panther Creek Falls is a 50-foot waterfall that cascades into a wide pool perfect for swimming. The 7-mile round-trip hike to reach it takes you through scenic woods and along the picturesque Panther Creek.

Rainbow Falls, Alabama

Rainbow Falls, a stunning hidden waterfall in the South, is situated in Dismals Canyon. This 60-foot waterfall is a tranquil getaway off the usual road, surrounded by lush foliage and boulders coated with moss.

Piney Falls, Tennessee

A 2-mile hike in Piney Falls State Natural Area leads to the stunning Piney Falls, a 95-foot waterfall that plunges into a deep gorge. The surrounding old-growth forest adds to the feeling of being lost in time.

Ladder Creek Falls, Washington

Located behind the Gorge Powerhouse in North Cascades National Park, Ladder Creek Falls is an often-overlooked treasure. The waterfall is illuminated at night, creating a surreal and magical experience.