10 Amazing Underground Waterfalls in the US
The US houses a bunch of underground waterfalls that are beautiful beyond words. In this post you’ll learn about 10 of the most popular ones you can check out, most of which make for great scenic experiences!
The list:
- Ruby Falls
- Niagara Cave Waterfall
- Lost Sea Cave Waterfall
- Cave of the Winds Waterfall
- Bridal Cave Waterfall
- Cumberland Caverns Waterfall
- Fantastic Caverns Waterfall
- Hamilton Pool Preserve Waterfall
- Natural Bridge Caverns Waterfall
- Stevens Gap Cave and Waterfall
Photos:
Ruby Falls
- Location: Chattanooga, Tennessee
- Cost to Enter: $25.95 for adults, $13.95 for children (ages 3–12)
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for cooler weather and fewer crowds.
Ruby Falls is one of the most famous underground waterfalls in the United States. Located deep inside Lookout Mountain, this 145-foot waterfall is illuminated with colorful lights, creating a mesmerizing experience. Visitors can take a guided tour through the cavern to reach the falls while learning about the cave’s fascinating history.
Niagara Cave Waterfall
- Location: Harmony, Minnesota
- Cost to Enter: $20 for adults, $12 for children (ages 4–12)
- Best Time to Visit: Summer and early fall for optimal conditions.
Located in the heart of Niagara Cave, this underground waterfall cascades into a serene pool surrounded by stunning rock formations. The guided tours of Niagara Cave not only showcase the waterfall but also include other attractions like fossils and unique stalactites.
Lost Sea Cave Waterfall
- Location: Sweetwater, Tennessee
- Cost to Enter: $25.95 for adults, $15.95 for children (ages 4–12)
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round, as the cave maintains a consistent temperature.
Tucked within the Lost Sea Adventure, this underground waterfall complements the world’s largest underground lake. Visitors can enjoy boat tours that provide unique views of the cave and the cascading water hidden in its depths.
Cave of the Winds Waterfall
- Location: Colorado Springs, Colorado
- Cost to Enter: $24 for adults, $16 for children (ages 4–12)
- Best Time to Visit: Summer and early fall for longer daylight hours.
This small underground waterfall is part of the Cave of the Winds system. Accessible during guided tours, it offers an enchanting experience as water trickles down ancient rock formations, creating a peaceful ambiance within the cave.
Bridal Cave Waterfall
- Location: Camdenton, Missouri
- Cost to Enter: $22 for adults, $12 for children (ages 4–12)
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for pleasant weather and less crowded tours.
Bridal Cave, named for its history of wedding ceremonies, is home to a beautiful underground waterfall. The guided tours showcase the waterfall along with striking stalactites, stalagmites, and other geological formations.
Cumberland Caverns Waterfall
- Location: McMinnville, Tennessee
- Cost to Enter: $25 for guided tours (special packages available for spelunking)
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and early summer when rainfall enhances the waterfall’s flow.
Located within Cumberland Caverns, this underground waterfall is a highlight of the guided tours. Visitors can marvel at the cascading water as it flows into a serene underground pool, surrounded by stunning limestone formations.
Fantastic Caverns Waterfall
- Location: Springfield, Missouri
- Cost to Enter: $30 for adults, $17 for children (ages 5–12)
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round, as the cave maintains a steady temperature.
Known for its jeep-drawn tram tours, Fantastic Caverns also features a hidden waterfall that adds to its charm. The tours provide a comfortable way to explore the cave and its unique features, including the cascading water.
Hamilton Pool Preserve
- Location: Hamilton, Texas
- Cost to Enter: Free (advanced reservations required)
- Best Time to Visit: Year round
This is more of an open underground waterfall. With Hamilton Pool, what you get is a beautiful swimming spot underneath a giant cave with a waterfall flowing over it. A highly recommended place to visit especially when the sun is shining directly over it, eluminating the water.
Natural Bridge Caverns Waterfall
- Location: San Antonio, Texas
- Cost to Enter: $24.50 for adults, $16.50 for children (ages 3–12)
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for mild weather.
The Natural Bridge Caverns are famous for their expansive underground chambers, but the waterfall inside adds a serene element to the tours. It flows gently through the rock formations, enhancing the beauty of the cave.
Stevens Gap Cave and Waterfall
- Location: Scottsboro, Alabama
- Cost to Enter: Free, but requires a permit for exploration
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for easier hiking conditions.
Stevens Gap Cave features a dramatic underground waterfall that cascades into a deep, rocky chamber. It’s a favorite among spelunkers and photographers due to its striking visuals. The cave requires technical gear for exploration, making it ideal for experienced adventurers!
These underground waterfalls are hidden gems across the United States, combining natural beauty with a sense of adventure. From the illuminated cascades of Ruby Falls to the remote and dramatic Stevens Gap Cave, each location offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a casual visitor or an avid explorer, these wonders are sure to leave a lasting impression!
