5 Prettiest Waterfall Destinations In Florida
Florida is widely known for its hot sun (hence its nickname as the Sunshine State), beautiful beaches, swamp and Everglade areas, and its unique cultural diversity. Waterfalls may not come to mind immediately for visitors in Florida, and yet some of the prettiest cascades can indeed be found here, in several parks and nature reserves. Though not as tall or majestic as some of the world's most famous falls, Florida's waterfalls have a special charm, unique to the region. This article looks at 5 of the Prettiest Waterfall destinations in Florida.
Falling Creek Falls
North of Lake City, Falling Creek Falls is a 10-foot cascade that drops over beautiful limestone rocks. Visitors can take a casual stroll on the boardwalk area leading to the falls, enjoying the lush greenery and warm temperatures along the way. A great place for a family day trip, tourists can have picnics in the vicinity and explore the trails by foot or bicycle in a wonderfully calm atmosphere. And, of course, it all culminates by reaching the Falls and its cool rush of water.
Steinhatchee Falls
Located in Northern Florida's Taylor County, Steinhatchee Falls is the State's widest waterfall; with a height ranging from four to five feet down, when water levels rise on the Steinhatchee River, the falls can be unnoticeable. Yet this relatively short cascade maintains its great beauty by being surrounded by a beautiful Florida swamp ecosystem. In an area of swamp and hardwood forest covering some 1,800 acres, the park and trail area around the river and falls is a charming snapshot of pristine and calming nature. Devil's Millhopper Geological State Park
Tourists in the Gainesville metropolitan area will surely not want to miss a stopover at Devil's Millhopper Geological State Park. An undeniable natural wonder, a giant sinkhole, and its surrounding small waterfalls make this place a fantastic place to explore. Descend a 236-step boardwalk to the sinkhole (some 500 feet wide and 120 feet deep) and view the many waterfalls that flow over the cliff's limestone rocks for photo opportunities unlike any other. Twelve different cascades reach the bottom, and those who make it all the way will surely be in for a visual and even emotional treat.
Rainbow Springs
Just 5 kilometers north of the city of Dunnellon, Rainbow Springs State Park and its three human-made waterfalls are a wonderful sight to behold. Originally opened as a private theme park in the 1930s, the State government bought the facility in the 1990s, and it remains a popular location for camping, swimming, fishing, and even snorkeling. Enjoy the numerous walking trails and beautiful views of the waterfalls, all while surrounded by lush oak trees, pristine waters, and plenty of fresh air.
Falling Waters State Park
Site of the 73-foot tall Falling Waters Falls, the highest in Florida, this State Park is a great place to explore for those in the Panhandle region. The Park, filled with numerous sinkholes of various sizes, is open year-round for fishing, camping, swimming, hiking, and other activities from over 20 individual campsites. Visitors can walk along the main boardwalk and then reach the observation deck to view the waterfalls and look down at the largest sinkhole, which is 100 feet deep!
Across the State of Florida, beautiful nature scenes are always ready to be explored and enjoyed by people of all ages. These settings also include waterfalls, which may be lesser known (and smaller) than many of the world's most famous ones, but still, inspire with their beauty. From human-made wonders to sinkhole creations, these Florida waterfalls should be on the list of things to see for anyone in the Sunshine State.
