By Charlene Corson Selbee
Looking for a memorable day trip? Discover eleven unique waterfalls in historic Bluff Country, each offering its own distinct personality, from a towering 200-foot waterfall to an underground 60-foot marvel and a picturesque step waterfall. Prepare to be amazed by the natural beauty that awaits you.
It might surprise visitors and possible even residents to learn that the waterfalls result from a unique geological phenomenon. The true marvel lies in recognizing that the region was shaped thousands of years ago, when the last Ice Age bypassed the locally known Driftless Region of Northeast Iowa, Southeast Minnesota, Southwest Wisconsin, and Northwest Illinois. The distinct topographical features, such as the waterfalls, bring visitors back time and time again to enjoy the wonders of Historic Bluff Country.
In Decorah, Iowa, explore three captivating waterfalls, Malanaphy Falls, Dunning’s Springs, and Siewer’s Springs.
Malanaphy Falls, tucked within the Malanaphy Springs State Preserve, where it meets the Upper Iowa River, is just 10 miles upriver from Decorah. The waterfall can be accessed by foot through the picturesque forest or by canoe/kayak for a stunning view from the river. The eighth of a mile trail is well-maintained but is not accessible.
Dunning’s Spring Park, located on Quarry St./Ice Cave Rd. in Decorah, features Iowa’s tallest 200-foot waterfall and a one-of-a-kind rock bridge that crosses the stream, enticing visitors to climb to the top of the falls. There is ample parking next to the Upper Iowa River. Enjoy a short walk up the paved road. Visitors with disabilities can drive up the paved road to the falls.
Nearby, Siewer’s Springs along the Decorah’s Trout Run Trail offers a serene step waterfall experience and is a popular spot for trout fishing. Look up and you may see eagles flying overhead. Siewer’s Spring is promoted as the most accessible place in Northeast Iowa to fish. There are picnic tables, clean restrooms, sculptures, and the Chuck Gipp Decorah Fish Hatchery. The hatchery is open to the public 365 days a year.
Hokah, Minn., is home to Como Falls, peacefully nestled behind the fire station, surrounded by tree-covered limestone bluffs, making it a peaceful park for a picnic. You can also walk to the park from the city’s swimming pool, a spring-fed, sand-bottom pool.
Winnebago Springs, located on private property in the beautiful hills outside of Caledonia, Minn. The crystal-clear spring water gently bubbles over rocks and through soft, lush green grass. The spring joins one of many trout streams in Bluff Country.
Don’t miss the historic stone dam in Lanesboro, Minn. The dam on the Root River creates a scenic backdrop for this picturesque town and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Journey to Niagara Cave just minutes outside of Harmony, Minn., and watch as the 60-foot waterfall gracefully falls in a hypnotic display of natural beauty, creating a serene and picturesque underground setting.
The 10-foot Bridal Veil Falls are located within the boundaries of Pikes Peak State Park. The park is located above the Mississippi River town of McGregor, Iowa. The falls are accessible via a short half-mile walk along a wheelchair-accessible wooden boardwalk. Make sure to check out the 180-degree view of the Mississippi River from the Point Ann Overlook, which is also accessible.
Head south on the Great River Road National Scenic Byway to Spook Cave Campground, McGregor, Iowa. Beulah Spring Falls is located within the campground and is open from May to October. Don’t forget to hike the bluff above the falls. For more water fun, make sure to include time for a tour of Spook Cave. The cave is wheelchair accessible.
Located along the Great River Road National Scenic Byway, Big Spring Nature Area, Guttenberg, Iowa, features a stair-step waterfall with water cascading down a 100’ limestone wall. Enjoy a casual walk alongside the spring or hike up the north side of the area.
Embark on this journey through Historic Bluff Country and witness the beauty of each unique waterfall-it’s a day trip you won’t soon forget. Don’t forget to snap a selfie and tag Visit Bluff Country.
