Florida is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. With its stunning landscapes, lush forests, and crystal-clear rivers, it’s no wonder Florida is home to some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the United States. Whether looking for a peaceful stroll or an adrenaline-pumping hike, you’ll find something perfect among these ten stunning waterfalls.
These breathtaking sites will make any trip to Florida worthwhile. So, grab your hiking gear and get ready to explore the beauty of nature in the Sunshine State!
10 Florida Trail, Econfina Creek, White Springs
Florida national scenic trail is a 1500 meters long hiking trail and is the most popular in Florida. The Econfina creek section of this trail is 18.4 miles long, starting at Scotts road. Hikers can enjoy the cool shade from the hardwoods and the refreshing scents from wild azaleas, mountain Laurel and the famous Florida Anise when walking along the trail. The trail leads to breathtaking views of the creek's falls.
9 Steinhatchee Falls, Steinhatchee
Although shallow, Steinhatchee falls are the widest in Florida along the Steinhatchee river. Visitors can hike along the three-mile trail from the beaten path of urban Florida or along the Steinhatchee river to enjoy the view of vegetation in the hardwood forests. They will likely come across tortoises, deer, and sometimes wild hogs. Those interested in swimming can access the waterfall through the ladder running down into the water.
8 Disappearing Creek, Live Oak
The Camp branch conservation area, near Big shore state park, is home to the disappearing creek waterfalls, a hidden gem in Live Oak, Florida. The creek follows the Suwannee river, which seems to disappear through the rapids into the sinkhole, hence the name disappearing creek. Visitors can hike from the Camp branch conservation area along the broad jeep road or the Florida Trail. It's a steep hike, hence unsuitable for people with mobility issues. However, you will enjoy the view of ancient cypress trees as you hike up and down the creek.
7 Weeping Ridge Falls, Bristol
The Torreya State Park hosts the Weeping Ridge falls, a 25 feet dip pit whose water volume depends on the season. Visitors can hike along the weeping ridge trail leading to the waterfall and view the unique Geography of this place, all thanks to the years of erosion that have formed numerous ravines heading towards the Apalachicola river. Many plants and animals exist in this park, and visitors can catch a glimpse of them when walking along the trail.
6 Rainbow Springs Waterfall, Dunnelon
These are three artificial waterfalls in Rainbow state park whose history dates back over 10,000 years. Visitors can hike along the 2-3 miles trail and feel the refreshing breeze from magnolias, oaks, and Azaleas and the melodious sounds of birds chirping. Travelers visiting Rainbow springs can have a refreshing swim in the 72 degrees clear waters after a long day of hiking in summer.
5 Big Shoals State Park, WhiteSprings
Big Shoals State Park is home to Florida's largest white water rapid. The rapids consist of 80 feet of limestone bluffs soaring from the Suwannee river and creating a breathtaking view. Although they are not waterfalls, the rapids earn a class III White water classification when the water levels in the river reach 59-61 feet above sea level. Visitors can hike along the 3-4 mile long multipurpose woodpecker trail while experts can canoe or Kayak in the rapids.
4 Devil's Millhopper Natures Trail, Gainesville
Visitors can hike in Devil's Milhopper geological state park in this natural waterfall, which has attracted tourists since the 1880s. You can view the unique 120 feet deep and 300 feet wide sinkhole with more than 100 feet of exposed geological rocks by walking around the 1.6-mile nature trail. The 132-step staircase provides a closer view of the bottom of the sinkhole. Visitors will experience the temperature change and listen to the sounds of fox sparrows, gray tree frogs, and golden-banded skippers as they edge closer to the sinkhole.
3 Morikami Japanese Gardens, Delray Beach
Also named Roji-en or the garden of drops of dew, Morikami Japanese gardens is undoubtedly the place to hike when looking for a break from the normal hustle and bustle of life. The artificial waterfall is a tranquil feature inspired by Japanese culture. Visitors can hike through the gravel trails while enjoying the rejuvenating view of Bamboo groves, Bonsai trees, and pine forests. There are places to sit and rest while watching birds or viewing the garden's lush vegetation.
2 Falling Creek Falls, Lake City
Although many do not know of its existence, falling creek is one of the hidden natural gems in Florida. It's a breathtaking 10 feet deep cascade on 204 acres of land north of Lake City. Water drops through the limestone valley and flows over limestone boulders at the bottom of the ravine. You can access the waterfall by hiking along the boardwalk as you experience the sight of Cyprus, sweetgum, and Magnolia.
1 The Falling Waters State Park WaterFalls, Chipley
The falling waters state park waterfall is the highest waterfall in Florida, located at Florida State Parks. The waters sink 100 feet deep in the 20 feet wide cylindrical pit. A small stream runs from the pit and drops 73 feet to the bottom of the sink. Getting to the waterfall from the state park is a two-mile hike along the wire glass broad walk with a stunning view of the lush green forest vegetation. Visitors can feel the mist of the water as it descends into the depth of the caves via the lower viewing platform or observes the fall via the upper platform.