17,000 waterfalls that have been identified in the United States? While some are enormous in scale and size, others are nothing more than trickles of water cascading down a rocky cliff face. regardless of how big or small they may be. But they all have an undeniable allure, frequently offering a sense of peace and solitude in the great outdoors.

Many of the nation's most beautiful waterfalls are situated alongside exhilarating hiking trails. These trekking routes give visitors the chance to experience the sensation of standing at the base of one of these cascading torrents of water while exploring unusual outdoor settings. It is a situation that can simultaneously be inspiring, demeaning, and energising.

Lace up your boots, take your backpack, and head out on the trail if you want to experience this sensation. Here is our ranking of the top waterfall hiking trails in the United States.

Yosemite Falls Trail, California  

It is difficult to single out one waterfall in Yosemite National Park because there are more than 25 of them. However, the legendary Yosemite Falls is difficult to surpass at 2,425 feet in height. It is easily accessible along a 1-mile loop trail close to Yosemite Lodge, and it ranks as the fifth-largest waterfall in the world.

But the Yosemite Falls Trail offers a more difficult but rewarding experience for those who want to get a little more exercise. Visitors can reach the top of the falls after a 7.2-mile roundtrip hike and enjoy breathtaking views of Half Dome and the Sierra Mountains. Although the trail is steep and occasionally challenging, the effort is well worth it.

Havasupai Trail, Arizona  

The 10-mile Havasupai Trail hike can be difficult due to Arizona's desert environment, but the reward at the end makes it all worthwhile. The trail ends at the most well-known waterfall in North America, Havasu Falls. The water splashes into a pool of brilliant blue water below after falling 100 feet over the side of a cliff. Considering that pool is always kept at a comfortable 70 degrees F, it's the ideal place to cool off when you first arrive.

The Havasupai Reservation, where Havasu Falls is located, forbids day hikes. This means that guests should prepare to camp while they are there. By requiring a permit, the tribe also strictly controls daily hiker numbers. This keeps the trail from becoming overly crowded and the falls pristine.