Kansas might not top your list when you think of waterfalls—but it should. Tucked between rolling plains and fishing lakes are surprisingly scenic spots worth every detour. From well-known falls to the kind you’d miss if you blink, the state has plenty of photo-worthy drops that deserve your attention.
Whether you're into natural waterfalls in Kansas, looking for hiking trails in Kansas with waterfalls, or just want to know which ones are actually worth visiting, here's your list.
You’ll find Cowley County Waterfall west of Dexter, inside Cowley State Fishing Lake. It’s one of the few spots in Kansas that feels wild and dramatic without requiring a long hike. After heavy rains, this one roars—crashing down over red rock ledges and cutting through the landscape like it owns the place.
This is one of the best waterfalls in Kansas if you're after bold visuals and easy access. It’s not hidden, but it still feels off-grid. If you're into sharp drops, red rock backdrops, and places that don’t feel sanitized for tourists, start here.
Also called Prather Creek Falls, Chase Lake Falls is tucked beside Chase State Fishing Lake near Cottonwood Falls. The trail isn’t long—just follow the dam and let the spillway guide you. What makes it stand out is its layered flow. Three tiers of water give it rhythm, and you can walk beside the stream almost the whole way.
It’s one of those hiking trails in Kansas with waterfalls that feel like they were made for weekend escapes. If you want natural beauty without steep climbs, you’ll love it here. Plus, it photographs better than most.
Geary Falls is the kind of place that doesn't impress until you hear it. The roar comes before the view, and once you see it, you’ll get why this is one of the best waterfalls in Kansas. Found near Geary State Fishing Lake just south of Junction City, this drop hits about 35 feet—making it one of the tallest in the state.
There’s a short trail that leads to both top and bottom views. Show up after a spring storm or during runoff season for the full effect. If you're after natural waterfalls in Kansas that look like they belong in a different region, Geary checks that box.
Rock Creek Waterfall sits west of Fort Scott between Rock Creek Lake and the Marmaton River. You’ll walk a short trail and suddenly hit a series of rocky drops—each one shaped slightly different. It’s not massive, but it’s one of the better-kept waterfall areas with some space to explore.
It fits the bill for both best waterfalls in Kansas and hidden waterfalls in Kansas because so few people talk about it. If you’re tired of touristy overlooks and want something more hands-on, this one delivers.
Chautauqua Falls, near Sedan, gives you two small cascades separated by a quick walk. The upper falls are quieter, while the lower ones offer stronger flow. Both feel natural, peaceful, and totally uncrowded. It’s a perfect example of how Kansas hides real beauty in places most people never think to look.
You won’t find big crowds or flashy signs here. Just water, rocks, and a few curious turtles if you’re lucky. For people chasing natural waterfalls in Kansas that are still flying under the radar, this one should be on your list.
Butcher Falls isn’t public land—but if you call ahead, you can visit. It’s located on the Red Buffalo Ranch, also near Sedan, and it’s got that classic plunge-drop look. Roughly 10 to 15 feet high, this waterfall drops into a rocky pool and looks like something out of a nature magazine.
Because it’s on private land, it doesn’t show up on most travel blogs. But that’s part of its appeal. If you’re serious about visiting the best waterfalls in Kansas, make the effort. This one’s unforgettable.
Between Augusta and Andover, Santa Fe Lake Falls offers a more chill experience. It’s a spillway, yes—but when the water’s running, it’s got real energy. You’ll want to go after a decent rain to see it at its best. When it's dry, there's not much happening.
Still, it’s one of those hidden waterfalls in Kansas you’d never guess is there. There’s not much walking involved, so it's perfect for a low-effort day trip with a picnic and a view.
Just outside Manhattan, Pillsbury Crossing (also known as Deep Creek Falls) is one of the more well-known waterfall spots in the state. It’s shallow, wide, and steady—less of a dramatic drop and more of a smooth curtain of water. Locals wade in the pool below or picnic nearby.
This is one of the easiest natural waterfalls in Kansas to access. If you want something beautiful but not intense, this is your stop.
Alma Falls sits near the edge of Alma City Fishing Lake. It’s easy to miss, but worth a quick visit if you’re passing through. After a good rain, the water flows over a wide rock ledge, offering clean lines and a nice place to sit and think.
Is it the most dramatic waterfall in Kansas? No. But it belongs on the list of hidden waterfalls in Kansas that punch above their weight when conditions are right.
Want to hit multiple waterfalls in one go? Map out a loop that includes:
This road trip cuts through the heart of eastern and central Kansas, giving you a range of waterfall styles—from plunge pools to wide spillways.
It’s not just about height or power. The real appeal of waterfalls in Kansas is how they show up where you least expect them. No billboards. No tourist traps. Just quiet spots where water shapes the land in ways most people never get to see.
Whether you're hiking toward Rock Creek Waterfall, watching the spray at Cowley County, or sitting by the pools at Chautauqua Falls, each one gives you a different side of Kansas.
The best waterfalls in Kansas aren’t trying to impress you—they just do.
This content was created by AI