Top 20 Hidden Waterfall Hikes in the United States

Picture this: You’re standing at the base of a towering waterfall, its misty spray cooling your face. The roar of cascading water fills your ears, and you’re surrounded by lush greenery.

The best part? You’re one of the few people who know about this hidden gem.

Welcome to the world of hidden waterfall hikes in the United States.

In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey to one of the country’s most breathtaking, lesser-known waterfalls. Whether you’re a hiking beginner or a seasoned trekker, you’ll find a waterfall hike that suits your skill level.

Packing the right gear and following a thorough pre-hike checklist can make all the difference in your waterfall adventures. With the right preparation, you’ll be ready to discover these natural wonders in comfort and style.

Ready to lace up your hiking boots and discover these natural wonders?

Let’s dive in!

The Allure of Hidden Waterfalls: Why Seek the Unseen?

• Save

The Thrill of Discovery

Remember when you were a kid, and finding a “secret” spot in your neighborhood felt like striking gold?

That’s the magic of hidden waterfalls. These off-the-beaten-path wonders offer a sense of discovery that’s hard to find in our interconnected world.

Nature’s Canvas: A Photographer’s Dream

Hidden waterfalls are a shutterbug’s paradise.

The interplay of light, water, and nature creates scenes that beg to be captured. Whether you’re a pro with a DSLR or just snapping pics with your smartphone, these falls offer endless opportunities for stunning shots.

Escape the Crowds, Connect with Nature

In a world where popular trails can feel like rush hour traffic, hidden waterfalls offer a peaceful retreat. These secluded spots allow you to connect with nature on a deeper level, away from the hustle and bustle of more touristy locations.

How We Chose Our Top 20: Our Secret Recipe

We looked for falls that made you stop in your tracks and say “Wow.”

Height, volume, and surrounding scenery all played a part in our selection.

The “Hidden” Factor

What makes a waterfall “hidden”?

For us, it’s a combination of lesser foot traffic, limited information available online, and a sense of discovery when you finally reach it. Some of these falls might require a bit more effort to find – but trust us, they’re worth it.

Coast to Coast Coverage

We’ve scoured the country to bring you hidden gems from sea to shining sea. From the misty falls of the Pacific Northwest to the tucked-away cascades of the Northeast, we’ve got every region covered.

What are the top hidden waterfall hikes in the United States?

Now for the moment you’ve been waiting for – our list of the top 20 hidden waterfall hikes in the United States. Each of these waterfalls offers a unique experience, from towering cascades to serene, misty falls.

Let’s explore these natural wonders!

1. Colonial Creek Falls, Washington

• Save

Tucked away in North Cascades National Park, Colonial Creek Falls is a true hidden gem. At a staggering 2,600 feet, it’s the tallest waterfall in the continental U.S.

The falls feature 13 distinct drops, creating a spectacular tiered effect.

• Height: 2,600 feet
• Hike Distance: Varies (viewable from Highway 20 or accessible via short hike)
• Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early fall
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Pro Tip: For the best views, visit in late spring when snowmelt increases the water flow.

2. Johannesburg Falls, Washington

• Save

Another Washington state wonder, Johannesburg Falls, cascades down 2,400 feet in Cascade Pass. This waterfall offers a unique experience – you can view it from Cascade River Road or take a hiking trail for a closer look.

• Height: 2,400 feet
• Hike Distance: Varies
• Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early fall
• Difficulty: Easy (road view) to challenging (hike)

Insider Tip: Bring binoculars for stunning views from Cascade River Road.

3. Waihilau Falls, Hawaii

• Save

Waihilau Falls in Hawaii’s Waimanu Valley is a tropical paradise. This remote 2,600-foot waterfall features multiple drops amidst lush, green surroundings.

• Height: 2,600 feet
• Hike Distance: Varies (accessible only by helicopter or multi-day hike)
• Best Time to Visit: Year-round
• Difficulty: Challenging

Adventure Alert: Reaching Waihilau Falls is not for the faint of heart, but the breathtaking views make it worth the effort.

4. Ribbon Falls, California

• Save

Yosemite National Park is famous for its waterfalls, but Ribbon Falls often flies under the radar. This 1,612-foot waterfall offers a serene alternative to the park’s more crowded attractions.

• Height: 1,612 feet
• Hike Distance: Varies (viewable from several points in Yosemite Valley)
• Best Time to Visit: Spring
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Fun Fact: Ribbon Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in North America, but it often goes unnoticed next to the more famous Yosemite Falls.

5. Horsetail Falls, California

• Save

Another Yosemite gem, Horsetail Falls, is famous for its “Firefall” effect. For a few days each February, the setting sun hits the waterfall at just the right angle, making it glow like flowing lava.

• Height: 791 feet
• Hike Distance: Varies (best viewed from specific points in Yosemite Valley)
• Best Time to Visit: February for the Firefall effect, spring for highest flow
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Photographer’s Dream: The Firefall effect at Horsetail Falls is a bucket-list shot for many photographers.

6. Arethusa Falls, New Hampshire

Nestled in the White Mountains, Arethusa Falls is the tallest single-drop waterfall in New Hampshire. The hike to reach it offers beautiful forest views and a rewarding cascade at the end.

• Height: 140 feet
• Hike Distance: 3 miles round trip
• Elevation Gain: 900 feet
• Best Time to Visit: Late spring or winter for ice climbing
• Difficulty: Moderate

Winter Wonder: Arethusa Falls transforms into a stunning ice formation in winter, attracting ice climbers from around the region.

7. Silver Falls State Park, Oregon

While not a single waterfall, Silver Falls State Park offers a unique experience with its Trail of Ten Falls. This 7.8-mile loop takes you past (and behind!) 10 stunning waterfalls.

• Highest Fall (South Falls): 178 feet
• Hike Distance: 7.8-mile loop
• Elevation Gain: 800 feet
• Best Time to Visit: Spring for highest water flow, fall for beautiful foliage
• Difficulty: Moderate

Unique Experience: Walk behind four of the waterfalls on this trail for a perspective you won’t find many other places.

8. Ganoga Falls, Pennsylvania

Ganoga Falls, the highest of 22 named waterfalls in Ricketts Glen State Park, offers a stunning 94-foot cascade. The Falls Trail in the park provides a challenging but rewarding hike past multiple waterfalls.

• Height: 94 feet
• Hike Distance: Varies (part of the 7.2-mile Falls Trail loop)
• Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early fall
• Difficulty: Challenging

Hiker’s Paradise: The Falls Trail at Ricketts Glen is often rated as one of the most beautiful hikes in Pennsylvania.

That’s the first half of our list of hidden waterfall hikes. Each of these offers a unique experience, from the towering cascades of the West Coast to the serene beauty of the East. Ready to explore the rest? Let’s continue our waterfall journey!

9. Bushkill Falls, Pennsylvania

Known as the “Niagara of Pennsylvania,” Bushkill Falls is a hidden gem featuring eight waterfalls. The main fall drops an impressive 100 feet through a gorge lined with hemlocks and mountain laurel.

• Height of Main Fall: 100 feet
• Hike Distance: 1.4-mile loop (covers all falls)
• Best Time to Visit: Spring for highest water flow, fall for foliage
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Family-Friendly: With well-maintained trails and boardwalks, Bushkill Falls is great for hikers of all ages.

10. Manoa Falls, Hawaii

• Save

Tucked away in a lush valley near Honolulu, Manoa Falls offers a taste of tropical paradise. This 150-foot waterfall is surrounded by vibrant flora and has been featured in films like “Jurassic Park.”

• Height: 150 feet
• Hike Distance: 1 mile round trip
• Best Time to Visit: Year-round (but expect mud!)
• Difficulty: Easy

Movie Magic: Keep an eye out for familiar scenery from “Lost” and “Hawaii Five-0” on your hike.

11. Multnomah Falls, Oregon

While not exactly hidden, Multnomah Falls deserves a spot on this list for its sheer beauty. This two-tiered waterfall is the tallest in Oregon and offers stunning views from its historic bridge.

• Height: 620 feet
• Hike Distance: 4.4 miles round trip to the top
• Best Time to Visit: Spring for highest flow, fall for fewer crowds
• Difficulty: Easy (to view), Moderate (to hike to the top)

History Buff’s Note: The stone lodge at the base of the falls dates back to 1925 and houses a restaurant and gift shop.

12. Step Falls, Maine

Step Falls in Newry, Maine, offers a series of cascades and natural pools perfect for a summer dip. The short hike rewards you with a playground of granite slabs and rushing water.

• Height: Varies (series of drops)
• Hike Distance: Short (less than a mile round trip)
• Best Time to Visit: Summer for swimming, fall for foliage
• Difficulty: Easy

Summer Fun: Bring your swimsuit and enjoy the natural water slides formed by the smooth granite.

13. Virginia Falls and St. Mary’s Falls, Montana

Glacier National Park hides these two gems along the St. Mary Lakeshore. Virginia Falls drops 50 feet in a powerful column, while St. Mary’s Falls offers a wider, multi-tiered cascade.

• Height: 50 feet (Virginia Falls)
• Hike Distance: 3.6 miles round trip
• Best Time to Visit: Summer (park roads are often closed in winter)
• Difficulty: Moderate

Two-for-One: This hike lets you see two stunning waterfalls in one trip!

14. Lower Whitewater Falls, South Carolina

Part of a chain of six waterfalls spanning the Carolinas, Lower Whitewater Falls drops dramatically for about 200 feet. The remote location keeps crowds away, offering a true hidden gem experience.

• Height: Approximately 200 feet
• Hike Distance: 2 miles round trip
• Best Time to Visit: Spring for highest flow, fall for foliage
• Difficulty: Moderate

Did You Know? The entire Whitewater Falls chain is considered the highest series of falls east of the Rockies.

15. Palouse Falls, Washington

Palouse Falls became Washington’s official state waterfall in 2014, but it still feels like a hidden treasure. The falls plunge 198 feet into a circular basin, surrounded by dramatic basalt cliffs.

• Height: 198 feet
• Hike Distance: Short walks from viewing areas
• Best Time to Visit: Spring for the highest flow
• Difficulty: Easy (to viewpoints), Challenging (to the base of falls – not recommended)

Photographer’s Tip: Visit at sunset for stunning golden hour shots of the falls.

16. Depot Creek Falls, Washington

Straddling the U.S.-Canada border, Depot Creek Falls is one of North America’s most impressive yet least-known waterfalls. Its remote location ensures you’ll likely have this wonder all to yourself.

• Height: Varies (multiple tiers totaling over 1,000 feet)
• Hike Distance: Challenging, multi-day trek
• Best Time to Visit: Late summer (when snow has melted)
• Difficulty: Very challenging

Adventure Alert: Reaching Depot Creek Falls requires advanced hiking and route-finding skills. Always prioritize safety and be prepared.

17. Hanging Lake Falls, Colorado

Hanging Lake is a travertine geological formation fed by stunning waterfalls. The crystal-clear turquoise water and lush surroundings make this a truly magical spot.

• Height: Varies
• Hike Distance: Steep 1.2-mile hike (one way)
• Best Time to Visit: Summer and early fall
• Difficulty: Challenging

Preservation Note: Due to its fragile ecosystem, Hanging Lake requires a permit to visit. Plan ahead and practice Leave No Trace principles.

18. Franconia Falls, New Hampshire

Located in Franconia Notch State Park, Franconia Falls offers a series of cascades and natural waterslides. The relatively easy hike follows an old railroad grade, making it accessible for many hikers.

• Height: Varies (series of cascades)
• Hike Distance: 6.4 miles round trip
• Best Time to Visit: Summer for swimming, fall for foliage
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Fun for All: The natural waterslides at Franconia Falls are a hit with kids and adults alike.

19. Snoqualmie Falls, Washington

While it’s a popular tourist spot, Snoqualmie Falls still feels like a hidden paradise. The 268-foot waterfall thunders into a deep gorge, viewable from several observation decks.

• Height: 268 feet
• Hike Distance: Short trail from parking area
• Best Time to Visit: Spring for highest flow, winter for snowy scenes
• Difficulty: Easy

TV Trivia: Fans of the show “Twin Peaks” might recognize Snoqualmie Falls from the opening credits.

20. Ruby Falls, Tennessee

Our list concludes with a truly unique waterfall – Ruby Falls is located 1,120 feet underground inside Lookout Mountain. This 145-foot underground waterfall is lit with colorful lights, creating a magical atmosphere.

• Height: 145 feet
• Access: Guided tour through the cave system
• Best Time to Visit: Year-round (constant cave temperature)
• Difficulty: Easy (but requires the ability to walk about 1-mile round trip)

Underground Wonder: Ruby Falls is the deepest commercial cave and largest underground waterfall open to the public in the United States.

There you have it – 20 of the most breathtaking hidden waterfall hikes across the United States. From towering cascades to underground wonders, each offers a unique adventure waiting to be discovered. Which one will you visit first?

Gearing Up: What You’ll Need for Your Hidden Waterfall Adventures

Before we reveal our top 20 list, let’s talk gear. The right equipment can make the difference between a great hike and a miserable slog. Here’s what you’ll need:

Footwear First

Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are a must. Many of these trails can be slippery, especially near the falls.

Layer Up

Weather can change quickly, especially in mountainous areas. Pack layers to stay comfortable no matter what Mother Nature throws at you.

Pack Smart

Don’t forget:

• A waterproof backpack
• Plenty of water (at least 2 liters per person for a day hike)
• High-energy snacks
• A first-aid kit
• A map and compass (don’t rely solely on your phone)
• A waterproof case for your camera or phone

Leave No Trace

Remember, we want to keep these falls hidden and pristine. Pack out everything you pack in, and leave no trace of your visit.

That covers the essentials.

Capture the Magic: Photography Tips for Waterfall Hunters

Now that you know where to find these hidden gems, let’s talk about how to capture their beauty. Whether you’re using a DSLR or your smartphone, these tips will help you take stunning waterfall photos.

Gear Up

• A tripod is your best friend for waterfall photography. It allows for longer exposures without camera shake.
• Bring a polarizing filter to reduce glare on wet surfaces and enhance colors.
• Pack a microfiber cloth to wipe mist off your lens.

Camera Settings for Silky Water

• Use a slow shutter speed (1/15 second or slower) to create that smooth, silky water effect.
• Set your camera to a low ISO (100-400) to reduce noise in your images.
• Use a narrow aperture (high f-number) for greater depth of field.

Composition is Key

• Include foreground elements like rocks or foliage to add depth to your image.
• Try different angles – get low, shoot from the side, or find a high vantage point.
• Use the rule of thirds to create balanced, interesting compositions.

Timing is Everything

• Overcast days are often best for waterfall photography. They provide even lighting and reduce harsh shadows.
• The “golden hour” just after sunrise or before sunset can add beautiful warm tones to your photos.

Remember, the best camera is the one you have with you. Even if you’re just using your phone, these tips can help you capture memorable shots of your waterfall adventures.

Preserving the Beauty: Conservation and Responsible Hiking

As we explore these hidden waterfalls, it’s crucial to remember our role in preserving these natural wonders for future generations.

Here are some key points to keep in mind:

The Impact of Popularity

• Even hidden gems can suffer from overuse. As more people discover these waterfalls, the ecosystem around them can be damaged.
• Erosion, litter, and habitat disruption are real concerns at popular waterfall sites.

Leave No Trace Principles

1. Plan ahead and prepare
2. Travel and camp on durable surfaces
3. Dispose of waste properly
4. Leave what you find
5. Minimize campfire impacts
6. Respect wildlife
7. Be considerate of other visitors

How You Can Help

• Stay on marked trails to prevent erosion and protect plant life.
• Pack out everything you pack in – including biodegradable items like apple cores.
• Respect wildlife – observe from a distance and never feed animals.
• Consider volunteering for trail maintenance or clean-up events in your area.

By following these principles, we can ensure that these hidden waterfalls remain pristine for years to come.

Wrapping Up: Your Next Adventure Awaits

We’ve journeyed across the United States, discovering 20 of the most breathtaking hidden waterfall hikes this country has to offer.

From the towering cascades of the Pacific Northwest to the serene beauty of the Northeast, each of these waterfalls tells a unique story of nature’s power and beauty.

Remember, the joy of these hidden gems lies not just in the destination, but in the journey.

The hike to reach these falls, the sound of rushing water growing louder as you approach, the first glimpse of the cascade through the trees – these are the moments that make waterfall hunting so rewarding.

As you plan your next hiking adventure, consider seeking out one of these hidden waterfalls.

So what are you waiting for? Your next breathtaking vista is out there, waiting to be discovered.

Happy hiking, and may your paths always lead to beautiful waters!

Your Turn: Share Your Hidden Waterfall Discoveries

We’ve shared our top 20, but we know there are many more hidden waterfall gems out there. Have you discovered a breathtaking waterfall that didn’t make our list?

We’d love to hear about it!

Share your hidden waterfall experiences in the comments below. Tell us about the hike, the view, and what made it special. Your story might inspire fellow hikers to discover a new natural wonder.

And don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter.

We regularly share hiking tips, new trail discoveries, and updates on conservation efforts.

Join our community of nature lovers and adventure seekers – your next great hike could be just an email away!