Majestic waterfalls are a wonder of nature and a truly gratifying way to end a tough hike. They provide a beautiful view and, in spots where it’s safe, you can jump in the water and cool down by swimming or even standing under the waterfall itself! Here are three hikes at easy, moderate, and difficult levels around the U.S.
Easy: Koosah Falls and Sahalie Falls, OG
This 2.6 mile loop hike is a two-for-one deal on waterfalls. You can view both Koosah and Sahalie by hiking along the McKenzie River in the Cascade Mountains in Oregon. Koosah Falls stands at 70 feet tall and Sahalie falls at 100 feet.
Moderate: Horsetail Falls and Bridal Veil Falls, AK
During the winter, these two waterfalls actually become frozen falls that people ice-climb! But in spring, they melt, becoming two amazing reasons to hike the 2.6-mile one-way Keystone Canyon Pack Trail, which gains 250 feet of elevation from bottom to top. If you happen to be in Alaska and don’t want to brave the hike, you can also see the two falls from the highway!
Difficult: Cedar Creek Falls, CA
This 6.6-mile round-trip hike is quite advanced with 600 feet of elevation being gained along the way and the California heat to make things even harder. For that reason it’s best to hike this during cool months, but either way you’ll be richly rewarded with the chance to swim in the “Devil’s Punchbowl” at the bottom of the falls.
