Explore Our List of Must-See Waterfalls
We’re mere days away from the official start of spring! Sunny days, warmer temperatures, and more time outdoors is right around the corner. Spring also marks the beginning of waterfall season in our national parks. With melting snow and increase in rainfall, there’s no better time to experience rushing waterfalls than spring. From coast to coast, we’re laying out the top national park waterfalls you need to experience this spring.
Mt Rainier National Park, Washington
A great first stop on your waterfall hunt is Mt Rainier National Park in Washington. Whether you’re driving through, seeking out viewpoints, or hiking to those hidden gems, this national park is sure to deliver in the waterfall department. With over 25 active glaciers feeding into over 150 waterfalls, there are plenty to go around. Be sure to add Myrtle Falls to your list.
Olympic National Park, Washington
Sticking in the neighborhood, the next stop takes us to Olympic National Park. This park is ideal for waterfall chasing. The already stunning landscape of mountains, forrests, and coastlines makes for the ideal backdrop to a gorgeous waterfall. Whether you visit in spring or fall, you’ll be sure to catch them, as rainforest like temperatures and consistent rainfall keep the streams pumping. Be sure to add Sol Duc to the list of waterfalls to check off.
Yosemite, California
Heading south, a must-see stop lies in Yosemite. A park known for its grand waterfalls, this bucket list item is sure to satisfy. Aim to hit this park in late spring to see these falls at their peak. Top waterfalls to see include Yosemite Falls, Bridalveil, Vernal, and Horsetail Falls.
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
This park is known for its astounding geography, but it also is home to an incredible waterfall. Hikers all over will travel in hopes of hiking to this remote oasis within the South Rim. Havasu Falls is the perfect juxtaposition to this Arizona landscape that is a must visit on your waterfall hunt. Looking to visit but want to avoid the hassle of planning? Check out our trip leaving late this spring.
Yellowstone, Wyoming
Known for its hot springs, geysers, and abundant wildlife, Yellowstone is already a bucket list item. What you may not have known is that its also a great place to see roaring falls in the spring. Of the over 40 waterfalls, our favorites include the Lower Falls, Upper Falls, and Union Falls.
Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee
The West isn’t the only place to experience some gorgeous waterfalls this spring. With an abundance of spring rainfall, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the perfect place to get your waterfall fix. With over 100 waterfalls and cascades amongst the luscious backdrop, this Tennessee park is staple. Our favorites? Laurel Falls, Grotto Falls, Rainbow Falls, and Abrams.
Shenandoah, Virginia
East coasters – there are plenty of waterfalls to go around for you too. Head to Shenandoah for countless waterfall excursions. With a plethora of hiking options leading to beautiful streams and falls, this Virginia national park is the perfect destination to kick off your spring. Our favorites include Dark Hollow and Doyles River Falls.
These just scratch the surface when it comes to national park waterfalls, but there are plenty more when you begin to dig in to each specific park. While these are our must-sees, we’d love to hear which waterfalls you’ve visited that you consider a bucket list item.
View our full list of group tours through National Parks across the US!
