Explore 14 Breathtaking Waterfalls in Iowa

Iowa may not be the first state that comes to mind when considering waterfalls; however, a significant number of the cascades here are, in fact, artificial spillways rather than naturally occurring falls. Nonetheless, these remarkable waterfalls are still beautiful and highly deserving of a visit, particularly for those seeking outdoor experiences during their time in Iowa.

Typically surrounded by a diverse array of natural attractions and recreational activities, exploring these waterfalls offers a unique opportunity to reconnect with nature, engage in physical activity via various hiking trails that cater to a range of fitness levels, and enjoy a delightful day out with family.

Here are the top 14 notable waterfalls in Iowa.

1. Siewer’s Springs and Falls

Situated in Decorah, these falls represent an artificial spillway designed to regulate the flow of the Siewer River or Springs.

The falls are accessible by traversing the Trout Run Trail from the Ice Cave Road parking area near Dunnings Springs or by visiting the Decorah Fish Hatchery, which is also an excellent destination for an engaging and educational family outing.

Additionally, there is a Decorah bald eagle nest in the vicinity where the birds congregate annually. If timed well, you may catch a glimpse of these majestic creatures.

The spillway features smooth stone in a step-like formation, with three points where the water diverges and flows into the springs below. Swimming is not permitted here.

2. Bridal Veil Falls

While many states boast a ‘Bridal Veil Falls,’ in Iowa, Pikes Peak State Park, located in McGregor, hosts this stunning waterfall.

The optimal seasons to explore this site are spring and summer; however, environmental conditions may lead to varying water levels.

It is a one-mile round trip hike to Bridal Veil Falls, featuring a well-marked and accommodating trail. As it is a state park, visitors should be mindful of the associated regulations.

Effigy Mounds National Monument is also nearby and merits a visit for those interested in ancient civilizations and historical mounds.

Bridal Veil Falls offers a breathtaking viewpoint of the Mississippi River. The volume of water in the waterfall varies significantly based on rainfall and snowmelt, presenting either a gentle trickle or a dramatic cascade.

3. Backbone State Park Spillway and Falls

The Backbone Falls are part of a spillway located within Backbone State Park, in Dundee. This waterfall can be observed throughout the year.

To find it, visitors should look for the West Lake Trail in the park, or access the site by driving to 129th Street for a view of the spillway.

The nearby Backbone State Park Beach offers additional opportunities for outdoor recreation following a visit to the waterfall.

Backbone State Park features multiple hiking trails that range in difficulty. Visitors may also want to explore Richmond Springs, detailed below.

4. Richmond Springs Spillway

Richmond Springs Spillway, also located in Backbone State Park, is the more impressive of the two cascades in the area.

The natural spring emerges from the ground, creating a pool, while a spillway has been constructed to alter the spring’s flow, facilitating a continuous waterfall effect.

Head towards the Richmond Springs Shelter to walk around the springs, spillways, and the park, taking in stunning views.

5. Duck Creek Waterfall

Duck Creek Waterfall, located in Bettendorf, is a natural waterfall that is part of Duck Creek, whose water cascades down limestone bluffs before flowing into the Mississippi River.

To visit Duck Creek Waterfall, proceed to Devils Glen Park in Bettendorf. This park features numerous trails connecting to the Mississippi Riverfront trails, along with picnic areas and, of course, the waterfall.

The waterfall is best experienced during the spring or summer months when water flow is at its peak.

6. Briggs Woods Waterfall

Briggs Woods Waterfall is situated in Webster City and can be enjoyed year-round.

The waterfall is situated along the Boone River and can be accessed via the paved Boone River Recreational Trail from the parking lot.

This waterfall, while short, is broad, featuring a point that reaches a greater height, allowing the water to flow into a deeper pool. As always, river water follows the path of least resistance.

Camping is permitted at Briggs Woods Park, and visitors can also explore Brushy Creek State Recreation Area or Dolliver Memorial State Park for additional stunning vistas.

7. Beed’s Lake Spillway and Falls

Beed’s Lake Spillway in Hampton is among the largest spillways in Iowa featuring cascading water.

The spillway is easily accessible with a short walk from Beed’s Lake Drive parking lot.

The “waterfall” spans over half a mile in width and drops at least 60 feet, directing water from Beed’s Lake down the river into the Midwest. Many regard it as the most photographed spillway in the state.

8. Willow Creek Waterfall

Willow Creek Waterfall, located in Mason City, can be appreciated year-round as visitors can observe the river flowing over rocks with a gentle drop from a pool into the river below.

Conveniently, Willow Creek is near State Street Bridge in Mason City, making it easily accessible. However, it should be noted that the waterfall is situated on private property.

9. Ledges State Park Waterfall

The Ledges State Park Waterfall in Boone boasts a variety of water features and can be visited throughout the year.

Several hiking options cater to varying skill levels; one particularly favored trail is Canyon Road, featuring shallow water that children may relish playing in. Water flows across the road, which serves as the route to the waterfall.

Due to the river flowing across Canyon Road, driving is not permitted, providing a pleasant, easy pathway for visitors to explore the surrounding terrain.

After visiting the waterfall, guests may enjoy the local Boone and Scenic Valley Railroad for an alternative perspective on the area.

10. Union Grove State Park Spillway and Falls

Union Grove State Park in Gladbrook features a spillway that resembles a waterfall.

This location showcases a combination of natural and manmade spillway characteristics, comprised of smooth rocks atop and rougher stones behind the waterfall. While it does not feature a significant drop, it is one of the wider spillways in the region.

Spring and summer are optimal times for a visit, as the weather promotes enhanced water flow during the warmer months.

To access this spillway, visitors need to enter Union Grove State Park and locate the trailhead leading to the river, which is an easily navigable route complemented by a scenic drive through the park.

11. MacBride Falls

MacBride Falls is a year-round waterfall located in Solon. The falls are more accurately described as a spillway, given the rock formations present. Although the drop is modest, the cascading water continues downward in steps until it reaches the base.

The spillway bridges Coralville Reservoir and Lake MacBride, with an easy hiking trail for visitors.

Lake MacBride also offers beach activities, camping, and various outdoor facilities. Local visitors consider it a tranquil escape from urban life in cities like Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, and the Amana Colonies.

12. Beulah Springs Falls

Beulah Springs Falls is located in McGregor, but not within Pikes Peak State Park; instead, it is near Spook Cave Campground.

This waterfall is a year-round spectacle, showcasing minimal flow over a distance of approximately ten feet. Water emerges from a cave-like rock formation, cascading down the hill into the larger Bloody Run Creek.

Visitors can embark on a hike to the falls, marveling at the river’s grandeur and touring Spook Cave.

Depending on precipitation and snowmelt, the waterfall may appear wider and more formidable compared to the single stream observed during dry conditions.

13. Malanaphy Spring Falls

Malanaphy Spring Falls, situated in Bluffton, is accessible year-round for visitors.

Those exploring the Decorah area can travel to Bluffton, merely a short distance from the spring and waterfall. The round trip hike is straightforward, with a distance of just two miles.

Malanaphy flows into the Upper Iowa River. While the waterfall’s flow is not significant, water gently drips through surrounding vegetation, cascading into the shallow spring below.

The drop height is roughly ten feet from the cliff edge down to the stream, which continues its journey as a modest creek. The lush greenery and expansive views are truly worth experiencing.

14. Dunnings Springs

Dunnings Springs, located in Decorah, offers a year-round family adventure. This waterfall is part of Dunnings Springs Park, which can be accessed via Ice Cave Road from Decorah, followed by a short hike along the trail to the waterfall. The hike to the over 40-foot cascade is easy and pleasant.

Water cascades over various rock formations, ultimately merging with the river below from the mountains above.

The road derives its name from the Ice Cave found nearby, where ice deposits typically remain until late summer.