Top 10 Waterfalls in Missouri
Best waterfalls in Missouri are found across diverse landscapes, from the rugged Ozark Mountains to urban parks. The state features a range of natural cascades, continuously flowing falls, and man-made installations. Many natural waterfalls are particularly notable after rainfall, showcasing the region's varied geology, including ancient volcanic rock formations. Missouri's terrain provides numerous opportunities to explore these water features.
Best waterfalls in Missouri
- The most popular waterfalls is Sequiota Park Pond and Waterfall, a lake that is part of…
Last updated: April 25, 2026
Sequiota Park Pond and Waterfall
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Citygarden Sculpture Park
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Mina Sauk Falls
Highlight • Waterfall
Tip by
Watkins Mill Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
Pickle Creek Waterfalls
Highlight (Segment) • Waterfall
Pickle Creek is a clear sandy-bottom creek with boulders, and has persistant flow year-round.
Tip by
Rocky Falls
Highlight • Waterfall
Tip by
Waterfall – Old Kate Trail
Highlight • Waterfall
For a detailed map and more information, see the sanctuary website: parkvillemo.gov/nature-sanctuary
Tip by
Long Creek
Highlight (Segment) • River
Tip by
Big Piney Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Waterfall
Tip by
Mina Sauk Falls Loop
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Missouri
American Discovery Trail — Walking from sea to shining sea
The Katy Trail – Pedaling Missouri's historic railbed
Katy Trail — From steel rails to scenic trails
Adventure Cycling Association's Bicycle Route 66 — LA to Chicago
Ozark Trail — A memorable trek across Missouri’s backcountry
Rock Island Trail — Walking through railroad history
The rhythms of the river – road trip along the Mississippi
Like in the Wild West – hiking on the Oregon Trail
Historic Route 66 – curiosities, selfie spots and diners
Hiking in Missouri
Other adventures in Missouri
Tips from the Community
If it’s dry season the falls will not have any water, but the loop is still worth it, it takes about 1.5/2 hours if you want to stop and take in the views and not have to rush
0
0
Sequiota Park is beautiful, spanning 28 acres and offering a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. There are several picnic areas and plenty of open space. Its unique feature is a protected cave on the grounds that is home to an endangered migrating colony of gray bats. The park surrounds a lovely pond with plenty of ducks, geese, and swans, making it the perfect place to stop for a picnic and enjoy its beautiful surroundings.
0
0
The Watkins Mill Trail is an easy, paved path that winds through Watkins Mill State Park. Watkins Mill Lake is the centerpiece of the park and the trail gives you great views of the water. There is also a waterfall that the path passes close to.
1
0
The trail follows scenic Pickle Creek which is a shut-in stream that flows through sandstone bluffs that the stream carved out over its course. Pickle Creek is a clear sandy-bottom creek with boulders, and has persistant flow year-round.
0
0
One of the main year round sources of water in the Wilderness. Along its path Long Creek has a number of small waterfalls and cascades as it bisects through the center of the of the area from east to west.
0
0
The Big Piney Trail is the main trail that loops through the middle of the Paddy Creek Willderness. It is rugged and travels through a forest of hardwoods and pines with rocky outcroppings and waterfalls.
0
0
A natural cascading waterfall that flows over molten rock that erupted to the surface 1.5 billion years ago. The falls expeience a heavy flow after it rains. The site is very popular and has bathrooms, picnic tables, and fire grills.
0
0
Located in Taum Sauk Mountain State Park, these falls at 132 feet are the tallest waterfall in Missouri. The view over the top of the waterfall offers an impressive view of the St Francois Mountains.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most popular waterfalls in Missouri?
Missouri offers a diverse range of waterfalls. Among the most popular are Sequiota Park Pond and Waterfall, known for its family-friendly atmosphere and protected cave, and Mina Sauk Falls, the state's tallest at 132 feet. For an urban experience, Citygarden Sculpture Park in St. Louis features a beautiful man-made waterfall amidst sculptures.
Are there any family-friendly waterfalls in Missouri?
Yes, several waterfalls in Missouri are great for families. Sequiota Park Pond and Waterfall is a 28-acre park with picnic areas, open space, a pond with ducks, and a protected cave. Rocky Falls is another family-friendly spot, popular for cooling off and enjoying nature. Tryst Falls also offers a park setting with picnic areas and a playground.
What is the best time of year to visit Missouri waterfalls?
Many of Missouri's natural waterfalls are considered 'wet-weather falls,' meaning their flow is significantly stronger and more impressive after rainfall. Spring is often the best time to visit, as melting snow and spring rains ensure peak water flow, making the cascades particularly spectacular.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible waterfalls in Missouri?
Yes, Citygarden Sculpture Park in downtown St. Louis features paved paths that are wheelchair accessible, allowing visitors to enjoy its waterfall and sculptures. Additionally, the Watkins Mill Trail is an easy, paved path that passes close to a waterfall within Watkins Mill State Park.
What kind of hiking trails can I find near Missouri waterfalls?
You can find a variety of hiking trails near Missouri's waterfalls. For example, the tallest waterfall, Mina Sauk Falls, is accessible via a rugged 3-mile loop trail in Taum Sauk Mountain State Park. For a different experience, the Pickle Creek Waterfalls are part of a scenic trail that follows a shut-in stream through sandstone bluffs. You can explore more options for waterfall hikes in Missouri by visiting our guide on Waterfall hikes in Missouri.
Where can I find Missouri's tallest waterfall?
Missouri's tallest waterfall is Mina Sauk Falls, located in Taum Sauk Mountain State Park. It plunges 132 feet over a series of ledges and offers impressive views of the St. Francois Mountains. The falls are best seen after significant rainfall.
Are there any continuously flowing natural waterfalls in Missouri?
Yes, Grand Falls near Joplin is known as Missouri's largest continuously flowing natural waterfall. It spans over 160 feet across, though it's only about 12 feet tall, and offers opportunities for swimming and wading in nearby creek pools.
What unique geological features can be found near Missouri waterfalls?
Missouri's waterfalls often feature unique geological formations. For instance, Rocky Falls cascades over ancient pink rhyolite rock, creating a distinctive and picturesque setting. The Ozarks region, in particular, is rich with 'shut-ins'—chutes and pools formed by streams flowing over volcanic rock, such as those found along Pickle Creek Waterfalls.
Can I find waterfalls near St. Louis?
Yes, St. Louis offers both natural and man-made waterfall experiences. Citygarden Sculpture Park in downtown St. Louis features a beautiful man-made waterfall. Additionally, Forest Park Falls (also known as 'Flegel Falls' or 'The Cascades') provides a peaceful, landscaped spot within one of the largest urban parks in the United States.
Are there any waterfalls that are part of a loop trail?
Yes, the Mina Sauk Falls Loop is a notable trail that takes you to Missouri's tallest waterfall. This loop trail is located in Taum Sauk Mountain State Park and is also dog-friendly.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near Missouri waterfalls?
Beyond enjoying the waterfalls themselves, the surrounding areas offer various outdoor activities. Many locations provide opportunities for hiking, such as the trails near Mina Sauk Falls. Some waterfalls, like Grand Falls, are popular for swimming and fishing. You can find more information on hiking and mountain biking routes in the region by exploring our guides on Waterfall hikes in Missouri and MTB Trails in Missouri.
Are there any waterfalls with caves nearby?
Yes, Sequiota Park Pond and Waterfall features a protected cave on its grounds, which is home to an endangered migrating colony of gray bats. This adds an interesting natural element to your visit.
Most popular routes in Missouri
Most popular attractions in Missouri
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Happy to travel a little further afield? Then browse these guides for the best waterfalls in Missouri:
