Waterfalls have a special kind of magic; it might be the sound of water rushing down, the cool mist in the air, or the calm feeling they give. The US. has some of the most beautiful waterfalls—you can find big falls close to the road, hidden deep in the forest, or tucked away in places only the adventurous seem to discover. Each one is worth visiting and will surely be an amazing spot to add to your list of places to visit in the US. So be prepared to explore some fantastic spots you might not have heard of before (and maybe pack an extra towel or two).

If you want to refresh yourself in blue-green water nestled inside the Grand Canyon, head to Havasu Falls, located on the Havasupai Indian Reservation in northern Arizona. The waterfall drops about 100 feet from orange-red rock walls into pools made of travertine below. You’ll need a permit—and a good pair of hiking boots—as the trail is no walk in the park. But once you arrive, all the struggle melts away as you get lost in its quiet beauty. Honestly, you’ll forget your aching legs ever existed.

Brevard is where these falls are found, and they’re right off the famous Blue Ridge Parkway. To get to the falls, you hike less than a quarter mile from the trailhead, which is a short and simple walk for most people.

Expert advice: check the weather forecast before you go. Slippery rocks and soggy socks are less fun than they sound.

Located in Cumberland Falls State Resort Park in southeastern Kentucky, Cumberland is famous for its big 68-foot drop, creating a moonbow—a special kind of rainbow that can be seen at night when the skies are clear and there’s a full moon. That’s right, a rainbow at night. This makes it a favorite place for photographers and hikers who enjoy the park’s tree-covered trails and maybe feel like they’ve stepped into a fantasy movie.

Yellowstone National Park’s Grand Canyon houses the Lower Falls of the Yellowstone River, towering at 308 feet. Lower Falls, unlike the park’s geysers, impresses visitors with its vibrant canyon walls and jaw-dropping vertical power. It can be seen from several viewpoints, such as Artist Point and Lookout Point, both reachable by quick walks and scenic drives. Your camera will thank you.

Curtis and York creeks combine to produce Anna Ruby Falls, nestled in the Chattahoochee National Forest close to Helen, Georgia. These twin waterfalls drop from heights of 153 feet and 50 feet and are easily accessed through a paved half-mile route from the visitor center. It’s a simple and satisfying stop—no oxygen tanks or cliff-hanging required.

Yosemite Falls is set in Yosemite National Park and consists of three tiers—Upper Falls, Middle Cascades, and Lower Falls. It’s the tallest waterfall in North America, plunging a jaw-dropping total of 2,425 feet. Peak flow happens in late spring when snow from the Sierra Nevada decides it’s had enough and dramatically melts down the cliffs.

The most visited natural landmark in Oregon is Multnomah Falls, falling in two stages—542 feet and 69 feet—and just 30 minutes from Portland. The Benson Footbridge, which sits between the upper and lower falls, can be reached by a paved trail. There’s also an optional hike to the top if your legs are feeling ambitious (or if your coffee finally kicked in).

One of the first significant waterfalls seen upon entering Yosemite Valley is Bridalveil Fall, cascading 620 feet. It flows most forcefully in spring and early summer. A short trail from the parking lot leads to a viewing area close to the fall’s foggy base, where the wind often catches the spray and gives the fall its bridal-like name. Yes, nature does weddings better.

Tahquamenon Falls is approximately 200 feet wide and 50 feet tall, located in Tahquamenon Falls State Park. The Upper Falls are the biggest east of the Mississippi, and they’re especially beautiful in the fall when surrounded by bursts of color. The reddish-brown hue of the water comes from tannins in nearby cedar bogs—not coffee, but close enough.

Underground springs in Northern California feed Burney Falls, which flow all year long. The waterfall drops 129 feet over a mossy ledge into a turquoise pool. A short, circular trail from the parking area leads you to this showstopper in McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park. Locals call it “the Eighth Wonder of the World,” and your Instagram followers might agree.

Niagara Falls is a group of three waterfalls that span the US.-Canada border: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls. It has the highest flow rate in North America and is located in western New York. You can view it from scenic decks, hop on the Maid of the Mist boat ride, or get up close and soaked from walking platforms near the base.

Bonus: your raincoat gets a proper workout.

Located in the Pocono Mountains, Bushkill Falls includes a series of eight waterfalls in a privately run park. Often called the “Niagara of Pennsylvania,” this hidden gem offers a network of paths, stairs, and bridges that connect the falls and provide viewpoints over forested terrain. It’s like a hiking trail and waterfall theme park had a lovechild.

One of Washington’s most beloved natural landmarks, Snoqualmie Falls plunges 268 feet and is located just east of Seattle near the town of Snoqualmie. A quick walk leads to the observation deck.

Bonus trivia: it’s famous for being near the Salish Lodge & Spa and for starring in the cult TV show Twin Peaks. Coffee and mystery included.

Often taller than Niagara and equally thunderous in the spring, the Shoshone Falls near Twin Falls, Idaho, drop 212 feet and stretch 900 feet wide. Nicknamed the “Niagara of the West,” it's best seen from a park overlook. For a closer look, visitors can rent kayaks from Centennial Waterfront Park—just try not to paddle backward with awe.

These waterfalls—from famous giants to hidden forest gems—show just how breathtaking and diverse the natural beauty of the US. really is. Whether you're planning a road trip, a hiking getaway, or simply want to chase some serious waterfalls, these destinations are worth every step.