Everyone enjoys the sight of a breathtaking waterfall, so we have partnered with Mike Shubic of MikesRoadTrip.com to share some of his favorite waterfalls while road tripping around the U.S.
Niagara Falls – Photo by: Mike Shubic of MikesRoadTrip.com
While the Mid-90s female trio TLC may prefer sticking to rivers and lakes they are used to, I prefer the cascading flow of waterfalls. Maybe it’s my astrological water sign, but a waterfall is an alluring sight that I have been known to hike miles to view. The transition from a solid horizontal flow of water to that of a dramatic vertical descent as gravity pulls the fluid over the end of a jagged cliff is simply captivating. I enjoy seeing the shapes that the water carves as it flows over the edge, to the ever-changing sounds as the wind modifies the audible direction. I could sit in front of a waterfall for hours, as if nestled within a solaced cocoon.
Over my many years of road tripping around the U.S. I have seen dozens and dozens of waterfalls. Here are just a few highlights for you to consider the next time you take to the highways and byways.
Bridal Veil Falls
Bridal Veil Falls – Photo by: Mike Shubic of MikesRoadTrip.com
Located just outside Provo, Utah is Bridal Veil Falls, a treasure frequently recognized as one of America’s top waterfalls. Flowing from springs that cover Cascade Mountain, a year-round stream of water surges over the edge of a 600-foot cliff. The flow of water is constricted at the top, but then rapidly expands from a narrow point, to a wide lacy veil. Locals in the late 1800s began calling the natural attraction “Bridal Veil Falls,” and the name stuck.
Middle Falls in Letchworth State Park
Middle Falls – Photo by: Mike Shubic of MikesRoadTrip.com
Located in western New York is the stunning Letchworth State Park, which is often referred to as the “Grand Canyon” of the east. While the canyon is not as impressive as its brother of the West, the Genessee River roars through, falling as much as 600’ in some places. The park is lush with trees, foliage and large grassy areas along with hiking trails and plenty of places for recreations and camping.
Ruby Falls at Lookout Mountain
Ruby Falls – Photo by: Mike Shubic of MikesRoadTrip.com
This waterfall is in hiding…it’s deep within the bowels of Lookout Mountain just outside Chattanooga, Tennessee. In order to see this truly unique waterfall, you must take an elevator down a shaft into the mountain some 1100 feet. Once you exit the elevator, it’s about an hour walk through a series of cave tunnels where stalagmites and stalactites are on display, until finally, Ruby Falls reveals itself.
Shoshone Falls
Shoshone Falls – Photo by: Mike Shubic of MikesRoadTrip.com
Just a short drive from Twin Falls, along the Snake River in southern Idaho, are the spectacular Shoshone Falls. At over 200 feet, Shoshone Falls is higher than the more well known, Niagara Falls. Spring and early summer are the best times to view the falls when water flow is at its peak. The park surrounding Shoshone Falls offers a great blend of recreational facilities, including playgrounds and hiking trails, landscaped picnic areas, a boat ramp and swimming area…as well as a scenic overlook.
High Falls Gorge
High Falls Gorge – Photo by: Mike Shubic of MikesRoadTrip.com
Not far from Lake Placid, New York in the famed Adirondacks, is a privately owned nature/waterfall park called High Falls Gorge. Groomed trails, bridges and walkways take visitors through a series of breathtaking views of the AuSable River as it cascades over ancient granite cliffs. There are many platforms and cantilevered decks to take in the extraordinary views.
Snoqualmie Falls
Snoqualmie Falls – Photo by: Mike Shubic of MikesRoadTrip.com
One of the most popular scenic attractions in Washington State is the splendid Snoqualmie Falls, which gained international fame with its appearance in the cult T.V. show Twin Peaks. Located just 25 miles east of Seattle, this 268’ waterfall is just one of the highlights when staying at the posh boutique Salish Lodge. Visitors not staying at the lodge will find a 2-acre park with large observation deck to take in the waterfall views and Pacific Northwest backdrop.
If you have a favorite waterfall, please leave a comment below and share.
Mike Shubic
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Gorgeous!