Tennessee – Road Trip Queen

Waterfall hikes are some of the most rewarding trails in the United States—short walks with big payoffs, dramatic canyons, and photo ops that stop people in their tracks. Whether you’re planning a national park vacation or road-tripping through small mountain towns, these waterfall hikes deserve a spot on your bucket list.

Below, you’ll find a guide to some of the most breathtaking waterfall trails in the country, including reader favorites like Fall Creek Falls, Stephan’s Gap, Flume Gorge, and more.

1. Fall Creek Falls – Tennessee

Difficulty: Moderate | Length: 0.8 miles round trip

One of the tallest waterfalls in the eastern U.S., Fall Creek Falls State Park offers breathtaking views and multiple trails. The hike to the base and back up is about 0.8 miles and accessible for most hikers. For a more panoramic experience, try the overlook trails.

Why it’s worth it: Incredible viewpoints, kid-friendly overlooks, and one of the most photographed waterfalls in Tennessee.

Read more about Fall Creek Falls with Kids!

2. Stephan’s Gap – Alabama (Callahan Cave Preserve)

Difficulty: Moderate | Length: 1.4 miles

This dramatic, cave-like waterfall pours through a vertical gap in the rock and creates a moody, cinematic scene. It’s a favorite among landscape photographers and adventurers.

Why it’s worth it: Unique setting—not your typical waterfall; perfect for photographers.

Read more about our hike to Stephens Gap Cave!

3. Bingham Falls – Vermont

Difficulty: Easy/Moderate | Length: 0.5 miles

Hidden in the Green Mountains, Bingham Falls is a short but steep hike with a rewarding plunge pool at the bottom. Best visited in the summer, this waterfall is perfect for a quick refreshing stop during a Vermont road trip.

Why it’s worth it: Quick, accessible, and stunning in every season.

4. Flume Gorge – New Hampshire

Difficulty: Easy | Length: 2 miles

A natural wonder in Franconia Notch State Park, Flume Gorge is a family-friendly trail featuring waterfalls, covered bridges, and granite walls. The 2-mile loop is easy to moderate, making it perfect for kids and photographers alike. Although it’s famous for its boardwalks, steep granite walls, and covered bridges, the Flume also features stunning cascades as the Flume Brook flows through the canyon.

Why it’s worth it: Scenic and safe for kids, with tons of photo spots.

5. Fern Falls – Arkansas (Ozark- St. Francis National Forest)

Difficulty: Easy | Length: 1.5 miles

This lesser-known Arkansas gem features a delicate veil of water falling into a mossy grotto. It’s peaceful, quiet, and ideal for families looking for a gentle adventure. Nestled in the Ozarks, Fern Falls is a quieter waterfall destination with scenic hiking trails. The hike is moderate and shaded, making it a great escape on a hot day. Pair it with nearby Hawksbill Crag hike for a full-day adventure.

Why it’s worth it: Great for beginners and one of the most peaceful waterfalls in the region.

6. Hidden Falls – Grand Teton National Park (Wyoming)

Hidden Falls is one of Grand Teton’s most family-friendly waterfall hikes, delivering big views with minimal effort. The trail begins at Jenny Lake—either by boat shuttle or on foot—and gently winds through pines until you hear the roar of the falls. At 100+ feet, Hidden Falls impresses with its powerful cascade framed by rugged granite and lush greenery, making it a perfect stop before continuing on to Inspiration Point.

Why it’s worth it: Stunning mountain views, peaceful lakeside scenery, and a serene waterfall that feels like a hidden gem.

7. Alberta Falls – Rocky Mountain National Park (Colorado)

A quick, scenic hike in Rocky Mountain National Park leads you to Alberta Falls, a beautiful cascade framed by lush forest and rugged mountain peaks. Perfect for a family stroll or a quick nature escape.

Why it’s worth it: Easy access, photogenic scenery, and a refreshing waterfall set in the heart of the Rockies.

8. Cascade Falls – Ouray, Colorado

Just a short walk from downtown Ouray, Cascade Falls offers a dramatic plunge into a narrow canyon, surrounded by towering cliffs and alpine scenery. Perfect for a quick stop or a family-friendly adventure.

Why it’s worth it: Easy access, stunning cliffside views, and a waterfall that captures the charm of Ouray’s rugged beauty.

9. Cedar Falls – Petit Jean State Park (Arkansas)

A moderate hike through lush forest leads to Cedar Falls, one of Arkansas’ most impressive waterfalls, cascading over sandstone cliffs into a serene pool below. Great for families and nature lovers alike.

Why it’s worth it: Scenic forest trails, a powerful waterfall, and one of the most iconic spots in Petit Jean State Park.

Tips for Chasing Waterfalls Across the US:

Check trail conditions before you go—some waterfalls are seasonal.
Bring layers and water-resistant shoes; trails can be slippery.
Pack or wear a swimsuit in case you want to take a dip!
Early morning visits help avoid crowds and capture the best light for photos.
Consider packing a picnic—many parks have beautiful spots to rest and enjoy the scenery.

Must Have Hiking & Photography Gear

This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission, at no extra charge to you, if you purchase items using any of the links provided. Thank you!

No matter which waterfall you choose, each offers its own unique beauty, adventure, and perfect photo opportunity. From serene forest cascades to dramatic mountain plunges, these hikes are well worth the journey. For more travel tips, waterfall inspiration, and behind-the-scenes adventure, follow me on Instagram @road_trip_queen and join the journey!

If you’re looking for a family-friendly getaway packed with adventure, stunning scenery, and a little bit of luxury, Fall Creek Falls State Park is a must-visit. We recently took a trip with the kids and stayed at the Lodge at Fall Creek Falls, and let me tell you—it was an unforgettable experience!

Where We Stayed: The Lodge at Fall Creek Falls

We booked a king suite at the lodge, and it was absolutely worth it. The spacious room, modern amenities, and beautiful views made it the perfect place to relax after a long day of exploring. The kids loved having space to spread out, and I loved the cozy yet upscale feel of the lodge.

Dining at the Lodge

We ate at the restaurant inside the lodge, and the food was great! It’s so convenient to have an on-site dining option, especially after a day of hiking and adventure. The menu had something for everyone, including kid-friendly options, and we left full and happy every time.

Hiking to the Base of Fall Creek Falls

One of the highlights of our trip was hiking down to the base of Fall Creek Falls. It’s a short but steep hike, and when we reached the bottom, the view was breathtaking.

The kids had a blast scrambling over the rocks, and we all got completely soaked from the mist! It was so worth it. If you go, be sure to bring waterproof shoes, a raincoat, and a change of clothes—you’ll thank me later.

Exploring the Other Waterfalls in the Park

While Fall Creek Falls is the star of the show, the park is home to several other waterfalls that are just as stunning and worth visiting.

• Cane Creek Falls – This waterfall is easily accessible and offers a beautiful view from an overlook. There’s also a suspension bridge nearby, which the kids loved crossing!

• Cane Creek Cascades – A short walk from the Nature Center, this cascade is a fun spot where the kids enjoyed splashing in the water. It’s a great place to take a break and let them explore.

• Piney Falls – A bit more off the beaten path, Piney Falls is another scenic waterfall with a dramatic drop. We enjoyed the peacefulness of this spot compared to the more popular areas of the park.

• Rockhouse Falls – Located near Cane Creek Falls, this one is a bit smaller but still beautiful, especially after a good rain.

If you have time, I highly recommend checking out as many waterfalls as possible—each one has its own unique beauty!

Exploring the Overlooks

Fall Creek Falls has some of the best scenic overlooks, and we made it a mission to visit them all. Each one offered a different perspective of the park’s stunning waterfalls, gorges, and forests. The kids loved peering over the railings and taking in the views, and it was a great way to see a lot without too much hiking.

A fun way to view waterfall overlooks is by accessing suspension bridges at Fall Creek Falls. Each one offers an exhilarating way to experience the park’s stunning landscapes. As you cross these swaying bridges, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of lush forests and deep gorges, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The bridges add a sense of thrill to your hike while providing a unique perspective of the cascading falls and the surrounding beauty. It’s a must-do for anyone visiting the area!

Horseback Riding Outside the Park

For a fun and unique experience, we also went horseback riding. The guided trail ride was a relaxing way to explore the area, and the kids were so excited to ride their own horses. It was a great mix of adventure and calm, and we all agreed it was one of the best parts of our trip.

Tips for Visiting Fall Creek Falls with Kids

Stay at the Lodge – The suite was perfect for families, and having a restaurant on-site made meals easy.
Bring extra clothes – If you’re hiking to the base of the falls, expect to get wet!
Plan for a mix of activities – Between hiking, scenic overlooks, waterfalls, and horseback riding, there’s something for everyone.
Check trail difficulty – Some hikes are short and easy, while others can be steep. Know what to expect before heading out with little ones.

Our trip to Fall Creek Falls was an amazing family adventure, and we can’t wait to go back! Have you visited with kids? Let me know your favorite part in the comments!

Category: Tennessee

9 Epic Waterfall Hikes Across the U.S. (Family-Friendly Trails + Hidden Gems)

Fall Creek Falls with Kids: Adventure, Waterfalls, and Horseback Riding

Share this:

Share this: