Chasing Waterfalls: 20 American Hikes That End with a Waterfall You Can Swim In

There’s nothing quite like the combination of a rewarding hike and the refreshing rush of a waterfall waiting at the end. Across the United States, countless trails lead to cascades where you can dip your feet or plunge fully into crystal-clear pools. Whether you’re traveling through bustling American cities or exploring hidden wilderness areas, waterfall hikes are some of the most memorable adventures you can have outdoors. To inspire your next journey, here are 20 American hikes that end with a waterfall you can swim in.

Cummins Falls, Tennessee

Just an hour and a half from Nashville, Cummins Falls State Park offers one of Tennessee’s most beloved hikes. The trail leads down into a gorge where Cummins Falls plunges 75 feet into a swimming hole surrounded by cliffs and boulders. The hike is rugged and requires scrambling over rocks and shallow river crossings, but the reward is a natural swimming spot that feels far away from the noise of city life. Many visitors combine their day trip with exploring Nashville’s vibrant music scene afterward.

Sliding Rock, North Carolina

In Pisgah National Forest near Asheville, Sliding Rock is a one-of-a-kind waterfall that doubles as a natural waterslide. The short hike takes you through lush forest before reaching the smooth rock chute, where the current carries you into a chilly pool at the bottom. On warm summer days, families and thrill-seekers alike line up for a turn on the slide. Pair the adventure with a visit to Asheville’s thriving food and craft beer scene for the perfect North Carolina getaway.

Cedar Creek Falls, California

Located in the Cleveland National Forest near San Diego, Cedar Creek Falls is a challenging but rewarding hike. The trail descends nearly three miles through chaparral and rugged desert terrain before opening up to the spectacular 80-foot waterfall known as Devil’s Punch Bowl. In spring and early summer, the pool is deep enough for a refreshing swim, though the return hike is a tough uphill climb. Afterward, visitors often head back to San Diego to enjoy the city’s vibrant waterfront and cultural attractions.

Bridal Veil Falls, Colorado

Telluride is known as one of the most picturesque mountain towns in the U.S., and the hike to Bridal Veil Falls is no exception. Towering at 365 feet, it’s the tallest free-falling waterfall in Colorado and tumbles into a sparkling pool at its base. Adventurers can take a moderate hike along a dirt road or challenge themselves with steeper trails for closer views. The pool is icy even in summer, but dipping in offers the ultimate Rocky Mountain refreshment.

Hamilton Pool Preserve, Texas

Just outside of Austin, Hamilton Pool Preserve is one of Texas’s most photographed natural wonders. The short hike leads to a jade-green swimming hole shaded by a collapsed grotto, with a 50-foot waterfall cascading from above. Swimming here feels like stepping into another world, with limestone cliffs towering overhead and clear water inviting you in. After a dip, travelers can explore Austin’s famous live music venues and quirky neighborhoods.

Havasu Falls, Arizona

Few destinations capture the imagination like Havasu Falls in the Grand Canyon. This trek requires permits and a strenuous hike, but the turquoise waters spilling 100 feet into travertine pools make it worth the effort. Visitors often camp overnight to fully enjoy swimming beneath the falls and exploring nearby cascades like Mooney and Beaver Falls. The closest city, Flagstaff, is a great base for acclimating to Arizona’s high desert landscapes before heading into the canyon.

Basin Cascade Trail, New Hampshire

In the heart of the White Mountains, the Basin Cascade Trail offers access to several waterfalls along its route. The Basin itself is a naturally carved granite bowl where the Pemigewasset River swirls into a refreshing pool. Hikers can continue upward to see more cascades, but the Basin is the perfect spot to cool off with a swim. Nearby, Lincoln and North Conway provide charming New England towns for overnight stays and dining.

Oneonta Gorge, Oregon

Just east of Portland in the Columbia River Gorge, Oneonta Gorge is an unforgettable hike through a narrow canyon. The trail requires wading through waist-deep water and climbing over logjams before reaching Lower Oneonta Falls, which tumbles into a clear pool. Swimming beneath the falls feels like entering a hidden world of mossy walls and misty air. Afterward, Portland’s food trucks and lively neighborhoods make for a perfect end to the day.

Hooker Falls, North Carolina

Part of DuPont State Recreational Forest, Hooker Falls is an easy half-mile hike from the parking area. The 12-foot waterfall empties into a wide, calm pool perfect for swimming on summer days. Families flock here for the combination of accessibility and beauty, often combining it with visits to nearby Triple Falls and High Falls. Brevard, a small mountain town nearby, makes a great base with its mix of outdoor outfitters and live music venues.

Swimming Hole at Stony Brook State Park, New York

In the Finger Lakes region near Rochester, Stony Brook State Park is famous for its gorge trails lined with waterfalls and natural pools. The main swimming hole is fed by cascading falls and offers lifeguard-supervised swimming during summer months. The park’s stone bridges and lush greenery make it a scenic escape from nearby American cities. After a refreshing dip, visitors can explore wineries and lakefront towns that make the Finger Lakes so beloved.

Laurel Falls Trail, Pennsylvania

Located in Ricketts Glen State Park, Laurel Falls is one of 22 named waterfalls along the Falls Trail System. The trail winds through old-growth forest, past multiple cascades, and eventually reveals a pool beneath Laurel Falls where hikers can wade in. This spot is especially popular in summer, when Pennsylvanians seek respite from the heat. The region also offers access to quaint small towns and the larger city of Scranton for urban adventures.

Punch Bowl Falls, Oregon

Another gem in the Columbia River Gorge, Punch Bowl Falls is one of the most iconic waterfall hikes in America. The Eagle Creek Trail leads through mossy forest before arriving at the punchbowl-shaped pool where the waterfall drops in. Swimming here is invigorating, with emerald water and canyon walls framing the scene. Portland, just 40 minutes away, offers endless options for dining and nightlife afterward.

Wallace Falls State Park, Washington

A little over an hour from Seattle, Wallace Falls State Park is a favorite for Pacific Northwest hikers. The moderate trail leads to multiple waterfalls, but the lower falls area offers a pool perfect for cooling off in. Surrounded by evergreen forest, the setting feels pristine and remote despite its proximity to the city. Afterward, visitors often head back to Seattle for coffee shops, seafood, and skyline views.

Blue Hole Falls, Georgia

Near Helen, Georgia, Blue Hole Falls offers a moderate hike through the Chattahoochee National Forest. The waterfall drops into a strikingly blue pool that’s deep enough for swimming and cliff-jumping. Families and adventurers alike love this destination for its accessibility and natural beauty. Helen, a Bavarian-themed mountain town, adds a unique cultural twist to the trip with German-inspired food and architecture.

Rainbow Falls, North Carolina

In Gorges State Park, Rainbow Falls is one of the most powerful waterfalls in the Southeast. The trail winds along the Horsepasture River before arriving at the 150-foot cascade, where mist creates shimmering rainbows on sunny days. Just downstream, calmer pools provide safe swimming areas. The nearby city of Asheville makes for an ideal home base, with its eclectic arts scene and mountain views.

McWay Falls, California

Along California’s Big Sur coastline, McWay Falls is one of the most photographed natural wonders in the U.S. While swimming at the base is not allowed, a short scenic trail leads to a viewpoint where the 80-foot waterfall cascades directly onto a sandy cove. For those craving a swim, nearby Pfeiffer Beach and other Big Sur spots offer ocean access. Travelers often pair this iconic stop with visits to Monterey or Carmel-by-the-Sea, blending rugged beauty with California coastal charm.

Lower Falls, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Yellowstone’s Lower Falls in the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone is a breathtaking sight at 308 feet tall. While you can’t swim directly beneath this mighty cascade, nearby rivers and swimming areas in the park provide refreshing dips after a hike. Trails like Uncle Tom’s Trail bring you close to the thundering spray for an unforgettable experience. Pair your adventure with a stay in Cody, Wyoming or Jackson Hole for a classic American West getaway.

Deschutes Falls, Washington

Near Olympia in western Washington, Deschutes Falls offers a serene escape from city life. A short hike leads to a striking waterfall plunging into a wide basin surrounded by basalt cliffs. The pool is deep enough for brave swimmers to dive in, though the water is cold year-round. Olympia’s eclectic mix of arts, restaurants, and history provides a perfect base for a weekend trip combining both city and wilderness.

Kaaterskill Falls, New York

In the Catskill Mountains just a few hours from New York City, Kaaterskill Falls is a two-tiered cascade totaling 260 feet in height. The hike is relatively short but steep, with opportunities to dip into nearby pools along the trail. Swimming is allowed in some designated areas downstream, making it a favorite summer escape for city dwellers. After your adventure, nearby towns like Woodstock and Hudson offer art galleries, live music, and farm-to-table dining.

Toketee Falls, Oregon

Hidden in the Umpqua National Forest, Toketee Falls is one of Oregon’s most enchanting destinations. The short trail leads to an overlook of the 113-foot waterfall framed by columnar basalt formations. Though the official viewing area doesn’t allow swimming, adventurous hikers can scramble down to reach the pool below for a cold, invigorating dip. Afterward, nearby hot springs offer the perfect contrast, and the city of Eugene provides a lively cultural hub.