In case you couldn’t guess, hiking is one of our all-time favourite outdoor activities! Although we love hiking year-round, the summer offers the greatest opportunities for checking out the best waterfall hikes! Hiking can be so many things; some people love it because they love to spend time in nature, and others are after the adrenaline rush and physical challenge of reaching the top of a peak. No matter the trail you’re on or your motivation behind hiking, it all comes back to connecting with nature and embracing the present moment. Brian Shultis, a passionate outdoor enthusiast and avid Avenza Maps user, also loves the feeling of satisfaction and growth that comes along with every new hike.

What’s better than taking in the beauty around you while on the trail? Being rewarded with a stunning view of a waterfall! We’ve compiled a list of the best hiking trails with waterfalls for you to discover! Keep reading to find out what they are.

Havasu Falls, Arizona

A hike to Havasu Falls is one of the most beautiful backpack hikes many hiking lovers enjoy! You’re likely familiar with images of crystal clear turquoise blue water against the backdrop of the Grand Canyon. The hike from the trailhead to the falls is 10 miles one way, taking an estimate of between 4-6 hours to complete depending on each hiker’s difficulty.

Check out these maps:

• Havasu Falls, Arizona by Color Hillshade Apogee Mapping
• BLM Arizona Havasu Access Guide Bundle by Bureau of Land Management - Arizona

Twin Falls, Maui

Twin Falls is the most epic waterfall nestled deep within the jungle of East Maui, Hawaii. Twin Falls presents nothing less than astonishing waterfalls, lush scenery, and trails are just a few things you’ll experience while visiting Twin Falls! Twin Falls is an easy hike, only 1.8 miles out and back, taking an estimated 1-2 hours to complete. It’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy the beautiful scenery surrounding you. If you're planning to hit the falls, our best tip is to head out early to avoid the crowds and get the best parking possible!

Check out these maps:

• Hawaii Atlas & Gazetteer by Garmin
• Maui Trails and Beaches by Tom Harrison Maps

Tahquitz Falls, Palm Springs

Tahquitz Canyon is a stunning natural attraction and one of the most well-known hikes in Palm Springs. With its rich history and unique geological features, this is a must-have on your list! This popular hike features a 50 ft waterfall and drops into a serene pool of water at its base. This hike ranges from relatively easy to moderate, where the trail becomes uneven and rocky at specific points. Along the path, you’ll discover rock art and native wild and plant life.

Check out these maps:

• San Jacinto Peak, CA by US Forest Service
• San Jacinto Wilderness by US Forest Service R5

Yosemite Falls, California

Yosemite Falls is the highest waterfall in Yosemite National Park, dropping over 2,000 feet from its base! Lucky for you, you can choose whether to make your way up to explore Upper Yosemite Falls or Lower Yosemite Falls. If you’re looking for a more relaxed walk, Lower Yosemite Falls is accessible, just a stroll on a one-mile paved loop trail. On the other hand, Upper Yosemite Falls requires more effort if you’re up for the challenge! The hike to Upper Yosemite Falls is strenuous, with roughly a 2,700 feet elevation gain.

Check out these maps:

• Yosemite National Park by US National Park Service
• Yosemite Falls, CA by United States Geological Survey

Multnomah Falls, Portland

A magnificent and stunning waterfall is located just 30 minutes outside of Portland! This incredible 611-foot-tall awe-inspiring cascading waterfall lets you experience the beauty of nature surrounding it. If you plan to hike to the top of the falls, consider hiking the Larch Mountain Trail. This beautiful hike follows Multnomah Creek and continues through an old-growth noble fir forest before reaching a summit with incredible views of the Cascade Mountains!

Check out these maps:

• Columbia River Gorge by Medeiros Cartography
• Multnomah Falls, OR by United States Geological Survey

Download Avenza Maps

Are there any waterfall hikes we missed? Tag us on your adventures to new hiking trails with waterfalls with #AvenzaMaps! We’d love to know where you’ve explored and where you’ll be exploring next. Until then, don’t forget to download the app and start chasing some waterfalls today!