FOREWORD

I have chosen to write about these creations of nature because I like to know many things about
nature and I am a geography lover, who admire every small thing, from a creek to a beautiful
waterfall, like these I wrote about.

In the first chapter I have written about Niagara Falls, one of the most famous waterfalls in the
world, impressive due to its unique appearance.

Chapter two is about Havasu Falls, the most famous waterfall from the Grand Canyon of
Arizona.

In the third chapter I have written about Multnomah Falls, the most visited waterfall in the North
America, with more than 2 milion visitors per year.

Chapter four presents the highest waterfalls in the North America, Yosemite Falls, with a height
of more than 2,425 ft.

Chapter five is about the Washington State’s official fall, Palouse Fall, located in the Palouse
Fall State Park.

In the sixth chapter I have written about Shoshone Falls, also known as Niagara of the West.
Shoshone Falls is one of the largest natural waterfalls in the United States surpassing the height
of the famous Niagara Falls.

Chapter seven contains many falls from the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, each one with a
specific beautiful appearance.

Chapter eight, presents one of my favorite falls, Rainbow Falls, located near Hilo town, which is
smaller than the other falls but is very accessible and beautiful.

Chapter nine is dedicated to an amazing waterfall, Cumberland, a majestic waterfall that

garnered the nickname ‘’The Niagara of the South.”

The last chapter, chapter ten, is about one of the most prominent and spectacular waterfalls in
Yosemite Valley, Bridalveil Fall.

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 CHAPTER 1: NIAGARA

Niagara Waterfall in winter.

Niagara Falls, waterfall on the Niagara River in northeastern North America, one of the
continent’s most famous spectacles. The falls lie on the border between Ontario , Canada, and
New York state, U.S. For many decades the falls were an attraction for honeymooners and for
such stunts as walking over the falls on a tightrope or going over them in a barrel. Increasingly,
however, the appeal of the site has become its beauty and uniqueness as a physical phenomenon.
The Niagara River, and the entire Great Lakes Basin of which it is a part, is a legacy of the last
Ice Age. 18,000 years ago, Southern Ontario was covered by ice sheets two to three kilometres
thick. As the ice sheets advanced southward, they gouged out the basins of the Great Lakes.
Then as they melted northward for the last time, they released vast quantities of melt water into
these basins. Our water is “fossil water.” Less than one percent of it is renewable on an annual
basis, the rest left over from the ice sheets. The startling green colour of the Niagara River is a
visible tribute to the erosive power of water. An estimated 60 tons of dissolved minerals are
swept over Niagara Falls every minute.

Many visitors to Niagara Falls are unaware that we possess some of the most beautiful hiking
trails in Western New York. The area known as the Niagara Gorge begins at the Falls and
extends almost 5.5 miles (9 km) to the north. The Niagara Gorge is accessible at various points
along the Niagara Parkway on both sides of the Niagara River. You can hike down to the rivers
edge for some breathtaking views of the local flora and fauna.

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 CHAPTER 2: HAVASU FALLS

Havasu Falls is the most famous of the aqua-blue Havasupai Waterfalls that spill over deep-
orange, travertine cliffs in a desert oasis of stunning beauty. The stark contrast between the arid
desert landscape of the Havasu Canyon and the lush vegetation near the water is a juxtaposition
of harsh desert and a sumptuous tropical paradise. The five Havasupai Falls include: Navajo
Falls, Fifty Foot Falls, Havasu Falls, Mooney Falls and Beaver Falls. All are located on the
Havasupai Indian reservation in a side canyon of the Grand Canyon. The waterfalls of the Grand
Canyon are like no other in the world, and visiting them is the opportunity of a lifetime.

The fame of the truly stunning Havasu Falls derives purely from its natural beauty. This
notoriety, although certainly well-deserved, has no basis in its physical size. This holds true due
to the fact that the waterfall represents no more than an average sized cascade.

This status pertains to both its height and width. For one thing in particular, the waterfall itself
consists of a single stage, much like the vast majority of similar features scattered throughout the
world. In its case, the water plunges a total of about 100 ft (30 m).

It also does so over a series of several vertical cliffs. These cliffs have a composition primarily
consisting of dark reddish sandstone. Without a doubt, the most visually striking feature of
Havasu Falls remains the breathtaking color of the water itself.

This occurs due entirely to the fact that the underlying rock strata contains high concentrations
of calcium carbonate. This natural compound slowly but steadily distills into the flow of water,
continually providing that water with an astounding aquamarine color.

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 CHAPTER 3: MULTNOMAH FALLS

Multnomah Falls is the most visited natural recreation site in the Pacific Northwest with more
than 2 million stopping by each year to take in the views. Fed by underground springs from
Larch Mountain, the flow over the falls varies, but is usually highest during winter and spring.
This is also one of the best places in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area to study
geology exposed by floods. 

Fed by underground springs, the flow over the falls varies and is usually highest during the
winter and spring months. Multnomah Falls offers one of the best places in the Columbia River
Gorge National Scenic Area to study geology exposed by floods. Six flows of Grande Ronde
Basalt are visible in the fall’s cliff face, representing more than 400,000 years of geological
history.

According to Native American lore, Multnomah Falls was created to win the heart of a young
princess who wanted a hidden place to bathe. Although you can see the top portion of the falls
from the highway, to view both tiers you have to walk to the viewing area located in a carved-out
opening in the rock face. Tilting your head up in the narrow rocky confines of the steep cliffs,
you get a mind-boggling perspective on the sheer magnitude of the falls.

Visiting Multnomah Falls, a 611-foot-tall roaring, awe-inspiring cascade of icy water, lets you
experience the power and beauty of nature up close and with ease. From the parking area off of
I-84, a 5-minute walk is all that separates you from the exhilarating spray at the base of the falls.

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 CHAPTER 4: YOSEMITE FALLS

At a height of more than 2,425 ft Yosemite Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in North
America. It flows approximately November through July, with peak flow in May.

Look for the ice cone at the base of the upper fall during winter and for roaring runoff April
through June. Yosemite Falls is actually made up of three separate falls: Upper Yosemite Fall
(1,430 feet), the middle cascades (675 feet), and Lower Yosemite Fall (320 feet). You can see
Yosemite Falls from numerous places around Yosemite Valley, especially around Yosemite
Village and Yosemite Valley Lodge.

In addition to being California's tallest waterfall, Yosemite Falls is commonly claimed to be

both the tallest waterfall in the United States and in North America. Given that Yosemite's height
takes into account six distinct leaps, we must consider other waterfalls which do not drop in one
single fall against this claim, in which case there are several waterfalls in Canada, Hawaii and
one in Washington State which are taller than Yosemite. If the qualifier is only those waterfalls
with a sheer drop, then the 1,430 foot drop of Upper Yosemite Fall is bested by neighboring
Ribbon Fall just a few miles to the west, so while the popular conception is that Yosemite is
king, in reality it is only the top dog in California, not in all of the USA.

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 CHAPTER 5: PALOUSE FALLS

The iconic Palouse Falls -- Washington State's official falls -- is not to be missed.

Also known as Aput Aput, meaning “Falling Water,” so named by the Palouse Indians, Palouse
Falls is located within Palouse Falls State Park. The park boasts a 105-acre camping area with 11
tent spaces, including one campsite that is ADA compliant. All sites are available on a first
come, first served basis. You will also find other amenities including sheltered and unsheltered
picnic tables, information kiosks, pit toilet restrooms, and wheelchair accessible paths. All
visitors should be aware that this area is home to rattlesnakes, so be careful where you walk. You
may also encounter the infamous yellow-bellied marmot during your visit. Many reside in the
park and can be found grazing throughout the area.

At the end of the last ice age, repeated glacial floods, known as the Missoula Floods, swept
across eastern Washington carving out the unique scablands landscape we see today. Among the
coulees, potholes, buttes, and plateaus, Palouse Falls remains as one of the magnificent and
lasting remnants of these glacial floods. It is the only major waterfall left along this thousands-
of-years-old glacial flood path, on February 12, 2014, it was established Washington's official
state waterfall. Standing at a height of 198 feet and surrounded by striking basalt cliffs, the
powerful waterfall lies on the Palouse River upstream of the confluence with the Snake River.

From Ellensburg, head east on I-90 toward I-82/Spokane/Yakima and continue on this road for
approximately 28 miles. Take exit 137 to merge onto WA-26 east toward Othello/Pullman.
Continue another 83 miles until you reach the small town of Washtucna, often referred to as the
“Gateway to Palouse Falls.” Turn right onto Main Street and drive through Washtucna. If you
blink you might miss it, so keep your eyes open; There will be a gas station on your left with
restrooms.

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 CHAPTER 6: SHOSHONE FALLS

Often referred to as the Niagara of the West, Shoshone Falls is a must see attraction in Twin
Falls, Idaho.  At 212 feet tall and 900 foot wide, Shoshone Falls is one of the largest natural
waterfalls in the United States surpassing the height of the famous Niagara Falls. Shoshone Falls
is located on the Snake River as it carves its way through a deep basalt Canyon on its way to the
Columbia River.

Shoshone Falls is among the most spectacular of natural beauties along the Snake River. At
212 feet, the falls are higher than Niagara Falls. They are best viewed during the spring and early
summer when water flows are high – depending on winter snow melt. Irrigation diversion of
Snake River flows can significantly diminish water over the falls in the summer and fall,
particularly during dry years.

However, even without high water flows, the views at the falls remain spectacular year-round.
The City of Twin Falls owns and operates the Shoshone Falls/Dierkes Lake Complex. It offers a
unique blend of recreational facilities, including playgrounds and hiking trails, landscaped picnic
areas, a boat ramp and swimming area, and a scenic overlook.

The flow of the Shoshone Falls is dependent on many variables. One of which is the amount of
snowfall our region receives each winter.
In spring, when the snow pack begins to melt, is the best time to see Shoshone Falls. In the
summer months, a portion of the river is diverted for irrigation purposes, which reduces the flow
over the falls. In the Fall, you will often experience a minimal flow where Shoshone Falls will
appear nearly dry. At this time, the majority of the water coming down the Snake River is used to
recharge the reservoir system upstream of Shoshone Falls.

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 CHAPTER 7: YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK

7.1 Lower Falls

Way back in 1870, a member of the Washburn party, Mr. N.P. Langford described the Lower
Falls of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone in this way: “A grander scene than the lower cataract
of the Yellowstone was never witnessed by mortal eyes.” That’s a more poetic way to say that
the Lower Falls are a must-stop spot on any tour of Yellowstone National Park.

At 308 feet, the Lower Falls is the tallest waterfall in the park. In terms of height alone, it’s
more than twice the size of Niagara Falls. The amount of water flowing over the falls varies
greatly depending on the season. At peak runoff times in the spring, 63,500 gal/sec flow over the
falls, whereas at lower runoff times in the fall, the flow diminishes to 5,000 gal/sec

You can see them up close by visiting the platform at the Brink of the Lower Falls. Other spots
to catch a glimpse of the falls include Red Rock Point, Artist Point, Brink of the Lower Falls
Trail, Uncle Tom’s Trail, and at various points along the South Rim Trail.

Lower Falls, the biggest waterfall in Yellowstone, is the most famous in the Park, hands down. 
In fact, the 308-foot tall waterfall it is most likely the second most photographed spot in
Yellowstone, with Old Faithful Geyser being the first.  There are numerous views of the Falls
from both the east (Inspiration Point, Grandview Point and Lookout Point) and west (Artists

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Point) sides of the Grand Canyon, most of which require only a short walk or virtually no walk
to see. 

7.2 Firehole Fall

Located less than 30 minutes from the town of West Yellowstone, Firehole Falls is one of the
most accessible and stunning waterfalls in the park. You’ll find the falls just off a gorgeous
scenic drive through Firehole Canyon, and you can watch as the Firehole River meanders along
the rocky cliffs before plunging 40 feet down. The Firehole Canyon Scenic Drive features a
small parking area (plan to arrive early as the lot fills quickly in the busy summer months). The
drive alone is worth the journey, but do plan to get out of your car and watch the majesty of the
falls, one of the park’s classic sights.

7.3 Tower Fall

One of the more famous waterfalls in Yellowstone National Park, Tower Fall is located
roadside between Tower-Roosevelt and Canyon Village (just three miles south of the Roosevelt
Junction). It is easily accessible thanks to a roomy parking area just a 300-foot stroll to the
viewing area. Tower Fall was named in 1870 for the stunning, rocky pinnacles that frame the

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falls. Visitors can watch as Tower Creek drops a dramatic 132 feet straight down before joining
the famed Yellowstone River roughly 1,000 yards downstream.

7.4 Undine Fall

Undine Falls takes its name from wise, typically female sprites who reside near waterfalls in
mythology. It’s quite easy to imagine mystical fairies living amidst this triple-plunge waterfall.
Undine Falls drops 60 feet into a stark canyon below, set amidst the Park’s classically rock-lined
landscape and many downed trees from years past. One of the lesser-trafficked falls in
Yellowstone, Undine is perfect for those seeking a little solitude. The falls are easily accessed off
the highway between Mammoth Hot Springs and Tower-Roosevelt.

7.5 Gibbon Fall

Located just off the road between Madison and Norris Junctions, stunning Gibbon Falls is an
easy drive from the park’s entrance at West Yellowstone. If you’re lucky, you may be able to
glimpse (and hear) the falls from your vehicle. But do yourself a favor and park. It only takes a

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few steps into the woods to reveal the full beauty of the falls, which cascade 84 feet into a small,
clear pool. The setting is quintessential Yellowstone, with scrubby pine trees and rocky cliffs.

Chapter 8: RAINBOW FALL

The Rainbow Falls are a broad waterfall in the Wailuku river that is conveniently located
within Hilo town. They are very easy to visit and you’ll have a high chance of seeing rainbows if
you visit somewhat early in the day (perhaps even before breakfast). Plan to stop here for 30
minutes to an hour.

The Rainbow Falls cascade 80 ft over a lava cave that, according to legends, is home to the
ancient Hawaiian goddess Hina, the goddess of the moon. Compared to its significantly higher
(422 ft) neighbor, the Akaka falls, the Rainbow Falls win out for accessibility and for from
where and how close you get to see the waterfall – either directly from the parking lot or from
the top of the falls after a several minute hike.

You can only see a rainbows when you are standing with your back towards the source of the
sun, or any other light source. This is because rainbows are caused by  the reflection, refraction,
and dispersion, of light in water droplets.

The water droplets in this case don’t come from rain, but from all the small water droplets in
the mist that surrounds the falling water. The main viewing area for the rainbow falls is east of
the falls, so if you want to see rainbows while looking at the falls, you need to do so in the
morning, because the sun rises in the east.

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 Chapter 9: CUMBERLAND FALL

The scenic waterfalls of Kentucky are as majestic as it gets, and Cumberland Falls is the
grandest of them all. Measuring approximately 68 feet tall and 125 feet wide, this impressive
waterfall has earned its moniker of “the Niagara of the South.” The 3,600 cubic feet of water that
spills over the sandstone edge every second creates a formidable roar and a breathtaking sight,
day or night. For a truly unforgettable experience, visit during a full moon to try to catch a
glimpse of the moonbow; this extremely rare phenomenon, formed by the mist in the air from the
falls, is one of only two naturally occurring moonbows in the world.

The falls are located within Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, which is home to the historic
Dupont Lodge – featuring solid hemlock beams, knotty pine paneling and massive stone
fireplaces. Choose from guest rooms, cabins or cottages, all offering beautiful views and a full
range of amenities for a complete vacation.

The area is a natural choice for water-sports enthusiasts, offering white-water rafting and
canoeing among other water activities. A professional outfitter is just 5 miles east of the resort.

As spectacular as the setting that surrounds it, the historic Dupont Lodge, built of massive
hemlock beams and knotty pine, offers a spectacular view of the Cumberland River Valley. It's
the perfect retreat after a day of hiking, rafting, swimming or horseback riding.

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 Chapter 10: BRIDALVEIL FALL

Bridalveil Fall is 620 feet high and flows almost all year round. As a glacial valley, Yosemite
was carved out of solid rock and earth millions of years ago. As the glacier-carved its path
through the Sierra Nevada mountains, it left behind a number of natural phenomena known as
“hanging valleys,” meaning that they are valleys with a floor at a higher elevation than the
channel through which the water flows. These hanging valleys are the cause and source of the
numerous waterfalls that flow into Yosemite Valley.

The source of the Fall is Ostrander Lake, approximately 10 miles south. When the wind blows
hard, the falling water appears to flow sideways, and in times of lesser flow, the water doesn’t
seem to reach the ground at all. This particular phenomenon inspired the Native American name
of “Pohono”, or Spirit of the Puffing Wind for the waterfall.

Whether it is to admire the natural scenery, or to get some exercise, or even to reconnect with
nature, Bridalveil Fall is a wonderful place to spend time alone or with family. For hikers, one of
the advantages to the trail is that it’s a short loop cooled by the mists that waft from the waterfall,
so that the hike is refreshing and invigorating. One thing to watch out for is rocks covered in
water from the mist; they can often make footing treacherous. Another thing to remember is that
the bathrooms are located in the parking lot, so bear that in mind before starting a hike.

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 Although there is no bad time to visit Bridalveil Fall, spring and early summer is hands-down
the best. Snow accumulated throughout the winter melts as the Sun regains some of its mid-year
warmth, creating torrents drawn by gravity to the valley floor below.

CONCLUSIONS

As a conclusion, the USA is the home of many spectacular natural attractions, different in
appearance, but closely related by the place where they are located.

A waterfall can be defined as an area where a flowing river or water body abruptly and nearly
vertically drops. Waterfalls can also be said to represent major interruptions in the flow of any
river. The presence of waterfalls is also a measure of the progress of erosion. There are some
experts who refer to waterfalls as simple falls or cataracts. It should be noted that waterfalls are
usually called cataracts when large volumes of water are present.

Waterfalls attract with their size, appearance and longevity, looking like an endless source of
beauty and life. There are lots of different types of waterfall, which are classified by how they
are formed, and their physical characteristics.

There are many waterfalls in the world with their specific location which makes the road to
them harder . What I want to say is that if I struggle to get to one of these fabulous falls, I will be
more satisfied because I gave everything I could to arrive there.

Waterfalls are an important part of the ecosystem, because they are part of the natural habitat
of many animal species, the fauna of the USA including numerous species of special animals. At
the same time, they contribute to energy development, to the production of electricity, through
the favorable conditions they offer for the installation of hydropower plants in high-flow areas.

Due to their spectacular appearance, the waterfalls attract tens of thousands of tourists every
year, eager to witness their spectacle. In this context, the waterfalls produce a considerable
income for those who manage them.

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 BIBLIOGRAPHY

https://www.britannica.com/place/Niagara-Falls-waterfall-North-America

https://www.golakehavasu.com/havasu-falls

https://www.yosemite.com/what-to-do/yosemite-falls/

https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/palouse-falls

https://yellowstone.net/waterfalls/lower-falls/

https://www.lovebigisland.com/hilo/rainbow-falls/

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