Tag: waterfall road trips

7 Bucket List Waterfall Road Trips from Dallas

Posted in Alabama, Arkansas, Colorado, Dallas, Oklahoma, State Parks, Tennessee, Waterfalls, weekend tripsTagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , Leave a comment

You don’t have to fly across the country to chase incredible waterfalls. Some of the prettiest waterfalls in the South, Ozarks, and Rocky Mountains are within road-tripping distance of Dallas — including several that are close enough for an easy weekend getaway.

From a 2-hour Oklahoma escape to a bucket-list drive into the mountains of Colorado, these are 7 waterfall road trips from Dallas worth adding to your travel list.

At a Glance

Turner Falls Park, Oklahoma — about 2 hours
Natural Falls State Park, Oklahoma — about 4 hours
Cedar Falls, Arkansas — about 5 hours
Fern Falls, Arkansas — about 6 hours
Stephen’s Gap Callahan Cave Preserve, Alabama — about 11 hours
Fall Creek Falls State Park, Tennessee — about 11 hours
Cascade Falls Park, Ouray, Colorado — about 15.5 hours

Drive times are approximate from Dallas and will vary depending on your starting point, traffic and stops.

1. Turner Falls Park — Davis, Oklahoma

Distance from Dallas: Approximately 120 miles
Drive Time: About 2 hours
Location: Davis, Oklahoma
Waterfall Height: 77 feet
Best For: Easy weekend getaway, families, swimming + waterfalls
Time Needed: Day trip or 1 night

If you want a waterfall road trip from Dallas that doesn’t require spending your entire weekend in the car, Turner Falls is the place to start.

Located in the Arbuckle Mountains near Davis, Turner Falls drops 77 feet into a natural swimming area below. It’s considered Oklahoma’s largest waterfall and is one of our favorite quick outdoor escapes from North Texas.

But don’t just photograph the waterfall and leave. Turner Falls Park covers around 1,500 acres and also has caves, hiking trails, swimming areas and the ruins of Collings Castle.

Things to Do at Turner Falls

  • See the 77-foot Turner Falls
  • Swim in the natural swimming areas
  • Explore Collings Castle
  • Find the park’s caves
  • Hike the trails
  • Pack a picnic
  • Stay overnight in a cabin or campsite

Turner Falls Admission

Turner Falls charges admission per person, and rates change between summer and winter.

Summer: May 1–September 30

Weekdays:

  • Adults: $16
  • Children ages 6–12: $9
  • Children 5 and under: Free
  • Seniors 55+: $9

Weekends and holidays:

  • Adults: $20
  • Children ages 6–12: $16
  • Children 5 and under: Free
  • Seniors 55+: $13

Winter rates are lower.

During summer weekends and holidays, premium Level 1 and Level 2 parking is available for an additional fee, while Level 3 parking is free.

Important: Children under 13 must wear a Coast Guard-certified life jacket when entering the water. Pets are not allowed in Turner Falls Park.

Where to Stay at Turner Falls

For the full experience, consider staying inside Turner Falls Park. The park offers cabins, screened shelters, bunkhouses, covered wagons, teepees, RV sites and primitive camping.

Cabins are currently listed starting around $225 per night, while screened shelters and camping offer less expensive options. Park admission may be charged separately depending on your accommodation, so check the current package when booking.

You can also find private cabins around Davis and the Arbuckle Mountains.

Road Trip Queen Tip

Go on a weekday if you can. Turner Falls can get extremely busy on summer weekends. Arrive early, explore the waterfall and trails before the crowds build, then cool off in the swimming area.

2. Natural Falls State Park — Colcord, Oklahoma

Distance from Dallas: Approximately 240 miles
Drive Time: About 4 hours
Location: Colcord, Oklahoma
Waterfall Height: 77 feet
Best For: Weekend trips, hiking, photography
Time Needed: 1–2 nights

This might be one of Oklahoma’s biggest surprises.

Tucked into the Ozark Highlands near the Oklahoma-Arkansas border, Natural Falls State Park feels completely different from much of the rest of the state.

The centerpiece is a 77-foot waterfall that plunges over a rock ledge into a lush ravine.

You may also recognize the scenery: portions of the 1974 movie Where the Red Fern Grows were filmed here.

Things to Do at Natural Falls

  • Visit the waterfall overlook
  • Walk down into the ravine
  • Explore the park’s hiking trails
  • Play disc golf
  • Picnic
  • Camp
  • Stay in one of the park’s yurts

Unlike Turner Falls, swimming is not allowed at Natural Falls.

Natural Falls Entrance Fee

There isn’t a traditional per-person admission charge, but the park currently requires a $10 daily parking pass per vehicle for out-of-state visitors.

If you reserve an overnight accommodation through Oklahoma State Parks, one complimentary parking pass is included.

Where to Stay

You can stay right at Natural Falls State Park in a campsite or one of its yurts.

For something a little different, there are also cabins, vacation rentals and glamping accommodations around Colcord and Flint Creek.

Another option is to stay around Siloam Springs, Arkansas, which gives you restaurants and other conveniences while keeping you close to the park.

Road Trip Queen Tip

Waterfall flow is always dependent on recent rainfall. Spring and periods following good rainfall generally give you the most dramatic waterfall experience.

3. Cedar Falls — Petit Jean State Park, Arkansas

Distance from Dallas: Approximately 300 miles
Drive Time: About 5 hours
Location: Petit Jean State Park near Morrilton, Arkansas
Waterfall Height: Approximately 95 feet
Best For: Hiking + classic Arkansas scenery
Time Needed: 2 nights

If you’re looking for a classic Arkansas waterfall weekend from Dallas, Petit Jean State Park should be near the top of your list.

Cedar Falls drops approximately 95 feet into Cedar Creek Canyon and is one of the signature sights at Arkansas’ first state park.

Two Ways to See Cedar Falls

If you don’t want to make the hike, head to Cedar Falls Overlook. The overlook trail is only about 1/4 mile and is accessible, making this the easiest way to see the waterfall. For the full experience, hike the Cedar Falls Trail into the canyon.

The hike gives you a much different perspective of the falls, but remember: what goes down into the canyon has to climb back out!

Don’t Miss These at Petit Jean

Make a weekend out of it and explore more than Cedar Falls.

Add:

  • Cedar Falls Overlook
  • Petit Jean’s Grave
  • Mather Lodge
  • Bear Cave
  • Rock House Cave
  • Seven Hollows Trail
  • Palisades Overlook
  • Cedar Creek Trail

Petit Jean has more than 20 miles of trails, so you could easily spend an entire weekend here.

Entrance Fee

Petit Jean State Park does not charge a general park entrance fee, and access to Cedar Falls Overlook is free. Camping, lodging and certain activities have separate charges.

Where to Stay

My first choice would be to stay on Petit Jean Mountain. The park has cabins, campsites and historic Mather Lodge, which puts you right in the middle of the scenery. There are also accommodations around Morrilton if you’d rather stay closer to restaurants and I-40.

Road Trip Queen Tip

Don’t make Cedar Falls your only stop. Petit Jean is one of those places where the entire park is the destination. Give yourself at least one full day to explore.

4. Fern Falls — Arkansas Ozarks

Distance from Dallas: Approximately 350–375 miles
Drive Time: Around 6 hours
Location: Scenic Highway 7 south of Jasper, Arkansas
Waterfall Height: Approximately 42 feet
Hike: About 1.4 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Best For: Hidden gems + waterfall hikers
Time Needed: 2 nights

Fern Falls is completely different from the first three waterfalls on this list. There isn’t a visitor center, developed state park or giant parking lot waiting for you. This is a true Ozark waterfall adventure.

Fern Falls is tucked into the forest off Scenic Highway 7, roughly 11 miles south of Jasper. The waterfall drops about 42 feet over a bluff into a lush grotto filled with — you guessed it — ferns.

Hiking to Fern Falls

The hike is approximately 1.4 miles round trip.

The trail begins near the Scenic 7 Byway sign along Highway 7. This is not a heavily developed trailhead, and parking can be tricky. There is no formal parking lot directly at the trail.

Expect:

  • Mud after rain
  • Creek crossings depending on water levels
  • Rocky and potentially slick terrain
  • Steep sections when descending toward the bottom of the falls

Use extra caution around the top of the waterfall and bluff edges.

Entrance Fee

Free.

There is no entrance booth or developed park surrounding Fern Falls.

Where to Stay

Base yourself around Jasper, Arkansas.

Jasper is one of my favorite home bases for exploring this section of the Arkansas Ozarks because you’re close to the Buffalo National River, Scenic Highway 7 and tons of hiking.

Look for cabins and vacation rentals around Jasper and Newton County.

Make It a Bigger Arkansas Weekend

Fern Falls is close enough to several other outdoor attractions that I wouldn’t drive six hours for this waterfall alone.

Combine it with:

  • Buffalo National River
  • Lost Valley Trail
  • Arkansas Grand Canyon
  • Scenic Highway 7
  • Alum Cove Natural Bridge
  • Other seasonal waterfalls around Newton County

Road Trip Queen Tip

This is one where recent rainfall matters A LOT. Fern Falls is considerably more impressive when water levels are good.

Also download your map or trail information before leaving Jasper. Cell service can be spotty throughout this area.

5. Stephen’s Gap Callahan Cave Preserve — Alabama

Distance from Dallas: Approximately 650–700 miles
Drive Time: Around 11 hours
Location: Jackson County, Alabama
Best For: Serious bucket-list scenery
Time Needed: 3–4 nights when combined with other North Alabama attractions
Permit Required: YES

Okay — this is the wildcard. Stephen’s Gap isn’t your traditional waterfall hike.

Instead, water plunges into an enormous cave opening, creating one of the most surreal natural scenes on this entire list.

The preserve protects a 143-foot open-air pit and a walk-in cave entrance. When conditions are right, water drops through the cave opening and creates an absolutely incredible scene.

IMPORTANT: You Need a Permit

Stephen’s Gap Callahan Cave Preserve is managed by the Southeastern Cave Conservancy (SCCi). A permit is required to enter the preserve. SCCi permits for its preserves are currently free, but you must obtain one before visiting and follow all preserve rules. Display your permit information on your vehicle while you’re at the preserve.

Hiking to Stephen’s Gap

The trail is approximately 3/4 mile each way with around 300 feet of elevation gain. This is an important distinction:You can reach the walk-in entrance without rappelling into the vertical pit.

The 143-foot open-air pit requires proper vertical rope skills and equipment and should NEVER be attempted by an inexperienced visitor.

Stay within your abilities and follow all SCCi rules.

Entrance Fee

No entrance fee, but a free SCCi permit is required.

Where to Stay

Look around Woodville, Scottsboro or Huntsville, Alabama, depending on how you want to build the trip. There are also cabins and rural vacation rentals around Woodville and Cathedral Caverns.

Turn This Into a North Alabama Road Trip

Don’t drive 11 hours from Dallas for only one hike.

Add:

  • Cathedral Caverns State Park
  • Little River Canyon National Preserve
  • DeSoto State Park
  • DeSoto Falls
  • Huntsville

Suddenly you’ve got an incredible long-weekend or 4-day Alabama road trip.

Road Trip Queen Tip

Do not arrive without a permit. This is a protected cave preserve, not a typical tourist attraction.

And if you’re visiting primarily to photograph the waterfall effect, remember that water flow is dependent on conditions.

6. Fall Creek Falls State Park — Tennessee

Distance from Dallas: Approximately 700 miles
Drive Time: Around 11 hours
Location: Spencer, Tennessee
Waterfall Height: 256 feet
Best For: A dedicated waterfall weekend
Time Needed: 3–4 nights

If your goal is to see BIG waterfalls, this is your road trip.

At 256 feet, Fall Creek Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in the eastern United States.

Even better? It’s not the only waterfall here. Fall Creek Falls State Park encompasses almost 30,000 acres and is filled with waterfalls, gorges, overlooks, forests, trails and a lake.

Waterfalls to See

Make time for:

  • Fall Creek Falls
  • Cane Creek Falls
  • Cane Creek Cascades
  • Piney Falls
  • Rockhouse Falls

Things to Do

Beyond waterfall chasing, you can:

  • Hike
  • Bike
  • Swim seasonally
  • Paddle
  • Fish
  • Play golf
  • Explore overlooks
  • Stay at the lodge
  • Rent a cabin
  • Camp

Entrance Fee

Fall Creek Falls State Park is free to enter. There is no general entrance fee to drive into the park, hike or visit the overlooks. Lodging, camping, golf and certain activities cost extra.

Where to Stay

This is one destination where I’d absolutely consider staying inside the state park. The Lodge at Fall Creek Falls sits on the lake and gives you a comfortable home base without having to leave the park.

There are also:

  • Park cabins
  • Campsites
  • Vacation rentals around Spencer

How Long Should You Stay?

From Dallas, I wouldn’t recommend this as a normal 2-night weekend. Give yourself at least 3 nights, and ideally build it into a longer Tennessee road trip.

Road Trip Queen Tip

Don’t stop at the main Fall Creek Falls overlook and assume you’ve seen the park.

Spend a full day waterfall hopping. This is arguably the best dedicated waterfall destination on this entire list.

7. Cascade Falls Park — Ouray, Colorado

Distance from Dallas: Approximately 850–900 miles
Drive Time: Around 15–16 hours
Location: Ouray, Colorado
Best For: Ultimate bucket-list waterfall road trip
Time Needed: 4–7 days

And finally…the BIG road trip. If you’ve followed Road Trip Queen for a while, you already know how I feel about Colorado road trips.

Ouray is worth the drive.

Known as the “Switzerland of America,” Ouray sits in a dramatic box canyon surrounded by the San Juan Mountains. And right above town? Cascade Falls.

Getting to Cascade Falls

One of the best parts about this waterfall is how accessible it is from Ouray.

The trailhead is at the eastern end of 8th Avenue, and the walk to the lower waterfall viewpoint is only around 1/4 mile.

It’s short — but expect some uphill walking and elevation.

Cascade Falls is also connected to the Ouray Perimeter Trail, so stronger hikers can turn this quick waterfall stop into a much bigger adventure around town.

Entrance Fee

FREE.

There is currently no admission charge or permit required to visit Cascade Falls, and trailhead parking is also free.

When to Visit

Late spring and early summer are typically ideal for waterfall flow as snow melts in the San Juan Mountains.

Summer is gorgeous, but afternoon thunderstorms are common in Colorado’s mountains. If you’re doing longer hikes, start early.

Where to Stay

Stay in Ouray.

Being able to walk around town, soak in the hot springs and wake up surrounded by mountains is part of what makes this destination special.

Good options include locally owned inns, hotels, cabins and vacation rentals around Main Street.

Don’t Miss These Around Ouray

Cascade Falls should only be one part of this road trip.

Add:

  • Ouray Hot Springs
  • Box Cañon Falls
  • Million Dollar Highway
  • Bear Creek Falls
  • Silverton
  • Telluride
  • Yankee Boy Basin
  • Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

Road Trip Queen Tip

If you’re driving this far from Dallas, don’t rush it. Turn this into a Colorado road trip and spend several days exploring Ouray, Silverton and the San Juan Mountains. Cascade Falls is beautiful, but Ouray itself is what makes this road trip bucket-list worthy.

Which Dallas Waterfall Road Trip Should You Choose?

Best Easy Weekend

Turner Falls Park

At only about two hours from Dallas, it’s the easiest waterfall getaway on the list.

Best Oklahoma Hidden Gem

Natural Falls State Park

Perfect if you want a completely different Oklahoma landscape without a huge drive.

Best Arkansas Weekend

Cedar Falls + Petit Jean State Park

There’s enough to see and hike to fill an entire weekend.

Best Hidden Waterfall

Fern Falls

Go after good rainfall and combine it with a Buffalo National River weekend.

Most Unique

Stephen’s Gap

A waterfall plunging into an enormous cave is pretty hard to beat.

Best Waterfall-Focused Destination

Fall Creek Falls State Park

Multiple waterfalls + nearly 30,000 acres to explore makes this the best choice if waterfalls are the entire point of your trip.

Best Overall Bucket-List Road Trip

Ouray + Cascade Falls

It’s the longest drive, but the combination of waterfalls, mountains, hot springs and the Million Dollar Highway makes it an unforgettable road trip.

When Is the Best Time to Chase Waterfalls?

Waterfalls can look completely different depending on rainfall and snowmelt.

For Oklahoma and Arkansas, spring is generally one of the best times to go, especially following periods of steady rainfall.

For Tennessee and Alabama, spring typically brings good water flow, although conditions vary.

For Ouray and the Colorado mountains, late spring into early summer brings snowmelt and stronger waterfall flow.

Always check current weather and trail conditions before leaving home. Never enter flooded creeks or cross fast-moving water just to reach a waterfall.

Before You Go

Entrance fees, permits, trail access and parking rules can change.

Before leaving Dallas:

  • Check the official park or preserve website
  • Verify current admission and parking fees
  • Check waterfall and trail conditions
  • Check the weather
  • Download offline maps
  • Bring proper hiking shoes
  • Pack plenty of water
  • Leave no trace
  • Never climb around barriers or enter closed areas for a photo

This is especially important at Stephen’s Gap, where advance permission is required.

Save This Dallas Waterfall Road Trip List

Who knew you could reach this many incredible waterfalls on a road trip from Dallas?

Whether you’ve only got a weekend and head two hours north to Turner Falls or you’re ready for an epic drive to the San Juan Mountains of Colorado, there’s a waterfall adventure on this list for you.

Save this guide for your next road trip and follow Road Trip Queen for more road trips, weekend getaways and outdoor adventures from Dallas.

Which one are you doing first?

State Park Road Trips Worth the Drive From Dallas, Texas

Posted in Oklahoma, Tennessee, TexasTagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , Leave a comment

If you’re planning your first big state park road trip from Dallas, these four parks are absolutely worth adding to your list. From canyon views and waterfalls to hidden caves and lush forest trails, each one offers a completely different experience — and all are drivable for a long weekend adventure.

1. Palo Duro Canyon State Park — Texas’ “Grand Canyon”

Park Website | Phone Number: (806) 488-2227 | Address: 11450 Park Road 5, Canyon, TX 79015

Why Visit

Massive red rock canyons, dramatic overlooks, iconic hiking trails, and some of the best scenery in Texas. This is one of the most epic road trips from Dallas for first-time canyon explorers.

Drive Time From Dallas

  • About 5-6 hours

Admission

  • $8 per adult (13+)
  • Kids 12 and under: free

Hours

  • Gate Hours: 7 a.m.–10 p.m.
  • Reservations strongly recommended, especially weekends.

Best Things To Do

  • Hike the Lighthouse Trail
  • Watch sunrise/sunset from canyon overlooks
  • Horseback riding tours
  • Camping inside the canyon
  • Scenic drives through the park

Lodging Options

  • Doves Rest Cabins — luxury canyon-view cabins near the park
  • Camping and glamping available inside the park
  • Amarillo hotels are about 30–40 minutes away

Nearby Food

  • Sad Monkey Mercantile — perfect casual stop near the canyon
  • Coyote Bluff Cafe — famous burgers in Amarillo

First-Time Visitor Tips

  • Summer heat gets intense very early
  • Start hikes at sunrise when possible
  • Cell service can be limited inside the canyon
  • Bring more water than you think you’ll need

2. Fall Creek Falls State Park — Tennessee Waterfall Paradise

Park Website | Phone Number: (423) 881-5298 | Address: 2009 Village Camp Road, Spencer, TN 38585

Why Visit

This park feels completely different from Texas — lush forests, huge waterfalls, suspension bridges, lakes, and endless hiking. It’s one of the most beautiful state parks in the Southeast.

Drive Time From Dallas

  • About 10–11 hours

Admission

  • Free admission to the park.

Best Things To Do

  • See the 256-foot Fall Creek Falls waterfall
  • Hike to multiple waterfall overlooks
  • Walk the suspension bridge
  • Kayak or paddle the lake
  • Visit Cane Creek Cascades

Lodging Options

  • Lodge at Fall Creek Falls — newly renovated lodge inside the park
  • Cabins and campgrounds throughout the park

Nearby Dining

  • Gaul’s Gallery at Fall Creek Falls — scenic lodge dining with lake views

First-Time Visitor Tips

  • Trails can become slippery after rain
  • Expect lots of stairs on waterfall hikes
  • Fall foliage season is especially stunning
  • Great destination for families because there are easy scenic stops too

3. Alabaster Caverns State Park — Oklahoma’s Hidden Cave Adventure

Park Website | Phone Number: (580) 621-3381 | Address: 217036 SH 50A, Freedom, OK 73842

Why Visit

This is one of the most unique state parks near Texas because the main attraction is an enormous gypsum cave system. It feels like stepping into another world.

Drive Time From Dallas

  • About 5–6 hours

Admission

  • Park entry is free
  • Cave tours require tickets
  • Guided cave tours run daily from 9 a.m.–4 p.m.
  • Wild Caving available in 4 caves

Cave Tour Pricing

  • Adults: about $10
  • Kids: discounted admission available
  • Wild Caving: $9 per person

Best Things To Do

  • Guided cave tour
  • Wild caving (advanced)
  • Hiking trails
  • Stargazing
  • Camping

Lodging Options

  • RV and tent camping inside the park
  • Small-town lodging in nearby Freedom, Oklahoma
  • Woodward hotels are about an hour away

Nearby Dining

  • Freedom Chophouse — local steakhouse option nearby

First-Time Visitor Tips

  • Bring a light jacket — caves stay cool year-round
  • Reserve cave tours ahead during busy weekends
  • Very remote area with limited services
  • Excellent dark skies for night photography

4. Natural Falls State Park — Oklahoma’s Hidden Waterfall

Park Website | Phone Number: 918-422-5802 | Address: 19225 E 578 Rd, Colcord, OK 74338

Why Visit

This hidden gem near the Arkansas border has one of the prettiest waterfalls in Oklahoma. The waterfall sits inside a mossy canyon that honestly feels more like the Pacific Northwest than Oklahoma.

Drive Time From Dallas

  • About 4.5–5 hours

Admission

  • $8 day-use parking fee may apply depending on season/camping reservations.

Best Things To Do

  • View the 77-foot waterfall
  • Hike the scenic loop trails
  • Stay in yurts or cabins
  • Picnic at overlooks
  • RV camping

Lodging Options

  • Yurts and campgrounds inside the park
  • Hotels available near Siloam Springs, Arkansas

Nearby Dining

  • Pinch of Southern — casual Southern comfort food nearby

First-Time Visitor Tips

  • The main waterfall trail includes stairs
  • Spring and early summer are the greenest months
  • Great stop for beginner hikers and families
  • Smaller park, but extremely photogenic

Best Time To Visit These Parks

ParkBest Seasons
Palo Duro CanyonOctober–April
Fall Creek FallsSpring + Fall
Alabaster CavernsYear-round
Natural FallsSpring + Early Summer

What I’d Pack For All 4

  • Refillable water bottle
  • Portable charger
  • Hiking shoes
  • Lightweight rain jacket
  • Snacks for remote stretches
  • Offline maps downloaded ahead of time

Click here for a list of our favorite gear!

These parks each bring something totally different to a road trip itinerary — canyon landscapes, waterfalls, caves, forests, and scenic hikes — which is what makes these such fun “worth the drive” destinations from Dallas.

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

Posted in Alabama, Colorado, Destinations, Grand Teton National Park, Hiking, New Hampshire, Tennessee, United States, Vermont, Waterfalls, WyomingTagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , Leave a comment

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!