11 Waterfalls You Can Swim Beneath in the U.S.
There is something special about standing in a natural pool with fresh water crashing down in front of you. Swimming beneath a waterfall gives you a sense of wild freedom while also offering a cool escape on a hot day. In the U.S. you have dozens of places where you can enjoy this kind of experience without feeling packed into a tourist trap. You can hike through forests swim in quiet canyons and then relax under a thundering curtain of water. Each location on this list gives you a chance to enjoy nature in a way that feels close and unforgettable. Always check local rules conditions and water levels so you stay safe and make the most of your time outdoors.
1. Havasu Falls, Arizona
Havasu Falls in Arizona gives you one of the most iconic places to swim beneath a bright blue cascade. You reach it by hiking through canyon trails on Havasupai land and the payoff is a wide desert oasis framed by red rock walls. When you step into the pool you feel cool clean water push against you as the fall drops from more than ninety feet above. You can swim close to the falling water and explore small pockets around the edge where the current slows and you can relax. Permits are required and you should respect the rules of the Havasupai Tribe since this is their home and a place with deep cultural meaning. Plan ahead for limited booking dates since spots fill quickly.
2. Cummins Falls, Tennessee
Cummins Falls in Tennessee lets you wade and swim beneath layered cascades that spread out over a rugged pool. You hike through a scenic river gorge and climb over rocks to reach the base which already feels like part of the adventure. The wide pool at the bottom gives you room to swim in moving water and feel the spray hit your shoulders. Summer visits can get busy so you want to go early and make sure you have a permit for the gorge area since access is controlled for safety. The rocks can be slippery so wearing sturdy shoes helps you stay steady while moving toward the fall. Check water flow conditions before you hike in because heavy rain can raise levels and make the route unsafe.
3. Sliding Rock, North Carolina
Sliding Rock in North Carolina is famous for giving you a natural waterslide that ends in a cool pool at the bottom. You can sit down on the smooth sloping rock and let the flow carry you into the water below which makes it fun for adults and kids who want something more exciting than a standard swim. Lifeguards operate during busy summer hours and there are basic facilities nearby making it easy for a family outing. The water can be chilly and the slide can move faster than expected so stay aware and follow posted instructions for safe swimming. Crowds build fast on warm weekends so arriving early helps you get space and enjoy more runs down the slide before lines grow.
4. Falling Creek Falls, Florida
Falling Creek Falls in Florida gives you a peaceful spot where tannin colored water drops into a shaded pool surrounded by tall trees and boardwalk paths. You do not need a long hike to reach the viewing area and you can climb down to the lower level where people often wade and cool off beneath the gentle flow. The fall is not huge but it creates a relaxing atmosphere that feels perfect for a slow afternoon outdoors. You can bring a picnic explore nearby trails and watch sunlight flicker across the dark water as you swim or sit beneath the cascade. The water flow changes with rainfall so visiting after a stretch of wet weather gives you a stronger fall and a fuller pool with more room to enjoy.
5. McCloud Falls, California
McCloud Falls in Northern California offers three separate tiers where you can swim in clear mountain water and stand beneath the lower fall as it pours into a calm basin. You can follow a well marked trail along the river and stop at each level until you reach the bottom where most swimmers gather. The scenery mixes pine forest volcanic rock and bright water making it a striking place to cool off after a long hike. Local swimmers often bring lunch and spend the day exploring each tier so you never feel rushed unless you want to move on quickly. The water stays cold even in summer so ease in slowly and give your body time to adjust before pushing close to the falling water.
6. Sawmill Falls (Opal Creek), Oregon
Sawmill Falls in Oregon’s Opal Creek area gives you emerald green pools and a short but powerful fall you can swim beneath if flow conditions are safe. You reach it by following a forested trail that winds through old growth trees and clear streams making the journey as rewarding as the destination. The pool at the base has calm edges where you can relax and deeper sections near the main pour where the current presses against you. The area has had closures in recent years so always check access updates before planning your visit to make sure the route is open. Water here stays cold year round and you should follow wilderness rules pack out trash and stay on marked paths to protect the fragile ecosystem.
7. Hanakapiai Falls, Hawaii
Hanakapiai Falls on Kauai rewards you with a dramatic ribbon of water dropping nearly three hundred feet into a deep pool where many hikers swim beneath the falling stream. You get there by hiking part of the Kalalau Trail which gives you ocean views bamboo stands and lush valley scenery along the way. The swim feels refreshing after the challenging trek and you can float near the base while mist from above cools your face. Flash floods can happen quickly in this valley so always pay attention to forecasts and avoid the pool if water turns muddy or fast. The trail can be slippery and steep so sturdy footwear and enough water help you stay comfortable on the long round trip to the fall.
8. Lower Lewis River Falls, Washington
Lower Lewis River Falls in Washington gives you a wide curtain of water pouring into a broad turquoise pool that draws swimmers from all over the region. You can climb around exposed rock shelves and approach the falling water from safe angles depending on the current. The forest setting makes the whole area feel calm even when more visitors arrive in the afternoon. You can also explore nearby upper falls and river stretches if you want more swimming holes or different views from above and below the main cascade. Surfaces can get slick so move carefully and be ready for cold snow fed water that can surprise swimmers who jump in too quickly. Take your time. Enjoy.
9. Foster Falls, Tennessee
Foster Falls in Tennessee lets you swim beneath a tall plunge that drops into a large pool surrounded by sandstone cliffs and green forest. You reach it by taking a short but steep trail that brings you to the base where the roar of the water grows louder with each step. You can swim close to the fall feel the spray and then relax on nearby rocks that warm in the sun. The area is popular with climbers and hikers so you have a lively atmosphere without feeling crowded if you visit early or on weekdays. The pool depth changes with rainfall so always test the water before jumping and stay alert to conditions that can change after storms. Bring good shoes for traction.
10. Kanarra Creek Falls, Utah
Kanarra Creek Falls in Utah gives you a slot canyon adventure where you wade through cool water to reach ladders leading to cascading falls. You can swim or stand beneath the flowing water in narrow sandstone corridors that glow in warm light during midday. The small pools and gentle streams make it a comfortable place to relax after moving through the canyon. Permits are required and the city limits the number of daily visitors so the canyon stays peaceful and safe for hikers and swimmers. Flash floods are a real danger in slot canyons so always check weather and avoid entering if storms are possible. Wearing sturdy shoes helps with grip on smooth wet rock.
11. Tanque Verde Falls, Arizona
Tanque Verde Falls near Tucson gives you several cascades and deep pools in a rugged desert canyon where strong swimmers can enjoy standing beneath falling water. You hike along a rocky route that follows the creek and leads to multiple swimming spots with wide views of the desert hills around you. The main fall has a large pool at its base and many visitors spend time floating looking up at the cliffs and listening to the echo of the water. Summer storms can create fast moving runoff so pay attention to weather and leave the canyon if you hear thunder or see water rising. Rocks can be slick and unstable so move slowly and consider visiting early in the day when temperatures are cooler and crowds are smaller.
