The Ultimate Guide To Chasing Waterfalls
Chasing waterfalls has become a captivating pursuit for many, including us, and it continues to draw in more people who are discovering its benefits. Just by the very fact that you’ve found this website means there’s something about waterfalls that has drawn you here!
It’s not just about the breathtaking views or the sound of cascading water; it’s also about the adventure and connection to nature involved in the journey to these aquatic wonders.
By delving deeper into this website, we’ll help you realize the transformative power of standing before a rushing waterfall, the way it revitalizes the spirit and ignites a sense of wonder.
It’s an experience that combines the thrill of exploration with the tranquility found in nature’s embrace.
So let’s get you started on going down the rabbit hole that is the pursuit of waterfall chasing (or waterfalling for short).
Whether you’re new to this or a seasoned veteran, we’ll walk you through the process of how we became lifelong waterfallers so that you can also make this a lifelong journey, too!
The Waterfalls That Got Us Started
When we started waterfalling in the late 90s and early 2000s, we had no idea that it was going to be a lifelong pursuit.
We began with waterfalls that we could pursue on the weekends when we needed to recharge from our day jobs and from school. Back then, the internet was still in its infancy so we found our waterfalls by using a book about California Waterfalls by Ann Marie Brown.
Our first local waterfalls that we’ve visited include…
This was the very first “local” waterfall that Julie and I visited together, and it was an easy hike located in the Thousand Oaks area (further to the northwest of downtown Los Angeles).
Back then, there was actually a lot of vegetation (so much so that they concealed hissing rattlesnakes).
These days, however, it’s very popular and much of the vegetation along the heavily-used parts of the trail has been cleared.
This is an easy waterfall to visit as parking is free, the flow is reliable, and it’s near Pasadena (to the north of downtown Los Angeles).
It was a popular place back then, but these days, it has become a viral weekend handout by city folks as well as casual nature lovers.
Which waterfalls are local to you that can get you started?
Of course, once we’ve discovered that chasing local waterfalls was a sustainable pursuit, we opened our minds to chasing waterfalls in more far-flung places – both in state and out-of-state.
Among our early road-trip and domestic-flight waterfalls include…
We stumbled upon both Bridalveil Fall and the neighboring Ribbon Falls when we went to Yosemite National Park without reservations on Memorial Day Weekend in 1999. Hey, we were clueless at the time, and we didn’t have a place to stay but we at least got to see these giants.
By the way, I also mistakenly thought Ribbon Falls was Yosemite Falls! That’s how clueless we were!
Nevertheless, over the years, Yosemite became our favorite US national park, and we’ve come back here too many times to count!
This waterfall opened our minds to how a scenic location enhanced the waterfalling experience in a very dramatic way.
Indeed, this was one of the best places to see where the ocean meets the sky, and we had a waterfaller’s excuse to experience it!
It also opened our minds to wanting to experience waterfalls that required a plane ride.
This Southern Utah waterfall was one of the first ones we’ve visited outside of the state of California.
We did it as part of a Grand Circle Road Trip to the American Southwest in 2001 (long before the marketing campaign to re-brand the national parks here as the “Mighty Five”).
It blew our minds that in an area as hot and arid as the deserts of the American Southwest that an oasis like this one could exist!
And it furthered our thirst for wanting to explore as many places as possible even in places where waterfalls don’t seem likely to exist!
After the unfortunate events of September 11, 2001, a lot of Americans were hesitant to travel.
However, that actually allowed us to pursue a visit to Tahiti, which is typically known as an expensive honeymoon destination.
And this was their most impressive (and accessible) waterfall that we saw on that trip, and it even had a blowhole nearby.
Of course, we managed to do it with a combination of a ferry and public transportation, but it made us realize how sometimes we had to work for our waterfalls to make it happen!
While Tahiti opened our eyes to the types of waterfalls found on tropical islands, this waterfall in a protected area of East Maui blew our minds as to what was possible in such islands.
Indeed, this inspired us to visit other Hawaiian Islands in pursuit of the waterfalls that could be found there.
This was New Zealand‘s most impressive waterfall, and we really had to work for it – on our honeymoon!
In fact, this trip pretty much opened the flood gates, so to speak, of what could be pursued around the world, and it pretty much caused the travel bug to bite us big time!
Now, we mix in waterfalls no matter where in the world we go, and it has exposed us to the wonderful world of waterfalls as truly a global pursuit!
As you can see, it all starts with an interest and passion for discovering yourself through waterfalls.
We started by chasing waterfalls near where we live, and then we became inspired enough to keep pursuing them in faraway places.
So how will your waterfall origin story look like?
Finding the Best Waterfalls: Research and Planning
When you’re eager to track down the most breathtaking waterfalls, a little bit of research can go a long way. The internet is a treasure trove of information, with travel blogs, nature websites, and even dedicated waterfall databases at your fingertips.
By the way, the World of Waterfalls website is in fact a blog, a nature website, and has a waterfall database – all in one place!
Don’t forget the power of social media. On platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, YouTube, and Facebook, you can find not just inspiration but also practical advice from those who’ve been there. Local and global online communities often share the latest updates on trail conditions, accessibility, and visitor tips.
While there are lots of content providers out there on the socials, the World of Waterfalls also has an Instagram page, a Pinterest page, a YouTube page, and a Facebook page.
Seasonal timing is crucial as well. Some waterfalls are at their fullest and most stunning during the rainy season, while others might be reduced to a trickle during droughts. Sometimes less is more and waterfalls can be at their best when there’s less flow while others really stand out when its surroundings are magical. Even some thermal waterfalls are best experienced in cold temperatures!
And while spontaneity has its charms, planning your route ahead of time can save you from potential hiccups. Familiarize yourself with the area using maps and hiking apps, and don’t hesitate to reach out to local tourism offices for some insider knowledge, especially local conditions at the time of your upcoming visit.
Each of the waterfall write-ups we have on this website (there are over 1500 of them and counting) contain directions, photos, videos, nearby attractions, our firsthand experiences, links to official sites for follow-up, and more!
We also have itineraries showing you how we’ve managed to do each of our waterfall-themed trips that involved spending at least a night or more somewhere away from home. That way you can have a sense of how much time to budget for your own custom itinerary on your upcoming trip.
Indeed, it helps to know before you go, and this website can be an invaluable resource for you to know what each waterfall experience is like…
Our Favorite Waterfalls
Speaking of knowing about the waterfalls before you go, sometimes it can be overwhelming trying to figure out which waterfalls you should pursue to start your waterfalling journey.
So we’ve compiled several lists of our favorite waterfalls to help you with your search.
These lists can drill down to our favorites in our neck of the woods to our favorites in a particular country or region, and it can even cover our favorites in the world, period!
Some of our most notable and popular Top 10 Lists are shown below:
So what makes us qualified to come up with our Top 10 Lists?
Well, every one of our these lists are based on our personal experiences, and we have over 20 years (and counting) of personal experiences chasing waterfalls around the world – covering over 40 states in the USA and over 40 countries.
So our suggestions aren’t empty suggestions or attempts at click bait!
Indeed, just to give you an idea of the waterfalls that we’ve been to over the years, the following map gives you a visual of where we’ve been…
I hope this convinces you that we know waterfalls and we know what it takes to sustainably enjoy them for the rest of your life!
Preparation and Safety: Essential Gear and Knowledge
So you’re captivated by the call of cascading water and ready to embark on your adventure. But wait, before you rush out the door, it’s crucial to gear up properly and arm yourself with the necessary know-how. Choosing the right equipment isn’t just about comfort; it’s about ensuring your safety in the varied terrains that waterfalls often inhabit.
The gear you pack will depend on your destination. A sturdy pair of waterproof boots, a high-quality rain jacket, and a reliable backpack are non-negotiable for any waterfall quest. Don’t overlook the importance of a first aid kit, whistle for emergencies, sunscreen, and insect repellent – the basics can be the difference between a fantastic trip and a problematic one.
Regardless of your experience level, safety comes first. Learn about the trails, understand the potential risks, and consider the weather conditions – nature can be unpredictable. So you should always let someone know your itinerary and anticipated return time.
And let’s not forget about the environmental aspects. Stick to marked trails to minimize your impact (and minimize your chances of getting lost or injured), be wary of local flora and fauna, and, if an area is off-limits, respect that. It might be tempting to venture off the beaten path, but doing so could mean damaging delicate ecosystems or putting yourself at risk (as well as others while making enemies in the process).
Venturing into less-traveled areas? It’s wise to consider the guidance of a local expert or join a guided group. A knowledgeable guide can offer invaluable insights into the area’s history and geography, enhancing your experience while keeping you on the safer side of adventure.
By preparing with care and respecting the power of nature, you’re setting the stage for what’s sure to be an exhilarating journey. To that end, the World of Waterfalls has write-ups to both help you know what’s involved in chasing specific waterfalls as well as advice based on our own personal experiences.
Such write-ups include:
Beyond the Waterfall: Further Adventures and Conservation
So you’ve conquered the cascades and basked in the mist of some amazing waterfalls. But I’m going to let you in on a little secret: your adventure doesn’t have to end there. There’s more to explore, and with a little extra effort, you can make a positive impact too.
When you’ve found that peace by the roaring waters, it’s natural to want to protect it. That’s where conservation comes in. Joining clean-up treks or donating to local conservation efforts can ensure these wonders stick around for generations to come.
But don’t stop there. No two waterfalls are the same, and even the same waterfalls yield different experiences based on the seasons let alone the local conditions and weather. Enhance your waterfall experience by trying out new waterfalls or using waterfalls as excuses to check out nearby landmarks or other experiences not necessarily waterfall-related. These additional activities can round out your trip, offering glimpses into the local culture and natural diversity.
In each writeup in the World of Waterfalls website, in addition to info about the waterfalls themselves, we also highlight nearby attractions (both waterfall-related and non-waterfall-related). That way, you can better plan out a more well-rounded trip that mixes Nature with the local culture and local experiences.
Building a community is a powerful thing. Share your waterfall tales or join an enthusiasts’ group. This isn’t just about swapping stories, it’s also about exchanging vital tips, like lesser-known trails or the best time to visit, which could transform another’s journey.
You can contribute your experiences chasing waterfalls to the World of Waterfalls by submitting a waterfall write-up or replying to something you’ve read on this website (at the bottom of every post or page).
And remember, there’s always something new to learn. Nature is a vast, ever-changing classroom. Keep up to date with environmental issues, learn about the native flora and fauna, and always be ready to adjust your approach based on the latest research, guidelines, and conditions.
To that end, I’ve included write-ups about the science behind waterfalls, and these include…
And if you still want to delve deeper into the World of Waterfalls, we’ve also put up some fun stuff about the topic of waterfalls.
These include…
Finally, if you really want to waterfall like us, I’ve also published raw trip reports or travel diaries so you get a blow-by-blow account of our travels. They’re not only invaluable resources to jog my memories (including mnemonic intangibles like mood, moments, music, and more) when I make content on this website, but you can also learn how we chase waterfalls as they occur in our travels.
We also have a waterfall newsletter every Waterfall Wednesdays so you can get curated content. Let’s face it. Not everyone has the time to go through the thousands of posts and pages of content on this website, and this newsletter is one way to get your waterfall fix in weekly bite-sized chunks.
And if you still need to just do an old-fashioned search, well we’ve got you covered there too. Simply click the magnifying glass on the topright of this page, which will bring down a search dialog allowing you to enter your query and let the website come back with the results.
That magnifying glass is there regardless of whether you’re on a wide screen (e.g. a desktop computer or laptop) or on a narrower screen (e.g. a smart phone or touch pad).
Conclusion
In conclusion, I really hope that you carry the memories of chasing waterfalls with you as you look to the horizon for your next adventure.
With each new discovery, let’s pledge to cherish and safeguard our natural treasures.
After all, waterfalls are not just a photogenic backdrop; they’re the heartbeats of the wild.
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