55+ Must-See Secret Waterfall Spots Around the World in 2025

There’s something magical about standing in front of a roaring waterfall—hearing the crash of water against rocks, feeling the mist on your skin, and witnessing nature in its most raw and powerful form. Now imagine that experience without the crowds, the noise, or the tourist traps. Just you, Secret Waterfall the sound of falling water, and the peace of an untouched paradise.

Top Secret Waterfall Spots You Must See Around the World in 2025

Welcome to the world of secret waterfalls hidden gems tucked away in dense forests, at the end of forgotten hiking trails, or behind unmarked paths only locals know. In 2025, as travelers seek more meaningful, secluded, and eco-conscious adventures, these secret waterfall spots are becoming the ultimate bucket-list destinations.

This isn’t just a list of random waterfalls—it’s a carefully curated global guide featuring 55+ lesser-known yet jaw-dropping waterfall spots across North America, Europe, Asia, Oceania, Africa, and South America. Whether you’re chasing the thrill of the hike, the perfect Instagram photo 📸, or the serenity of nature, these hidden cascades offer something truly special.

Hidden Waterfalls in North America

1. Cummins Falls – Tennessee, USA

A favorite among locals, Cummins Falls offers natural pools perfect for a dip. Just a short hike gets you to this serene beauty.

2. Toketee Falls – Oregon, USA

Famous for its unique columnar basalt formations, yet surprisingly under-visited. The hike is short but magical.

3. Coal Creek Falls – Washington, USA

Tucked in Cougar Mountain, this peaceful cascade is ideal for beginner hikers and photographers. 📸

4. Sturtevant Falls – California, USA

Nestled in Angeles National Forest, this gem offers a gorgeous forest trail and a misty, photogenic waterfall.

5. Mossbrae Falls – California, USA

This one’s a challenge to get to, but once you arrive, the lush greenery and flowing streams feel otherworldly. 🌱

Secret Spots in Canada

6. Bridal Veil Falls – British Columbia

Not far from the highway, but lesser known. The falls drop like a silver ribbon through the forest.

7. Alexandra Falls – Northwest Territories

Remote and powerful, this waterfall is a sight to behold during summer road trips through the north.

8. Kakabeka Falls Hidden Trail – Ontario

The main lookout is popular, but walk a little farther to discover a secret, peaceful viewing spot.

Mexico & Central America Wonders

9. Cascada El Chiflón – Chiapas, Mexico

A breathtaking multi-level waterfall with turquoise water. The secret is in climbing to the upper tiers. 🧗

10. La Reforma Waterfall – Oaxaca, Mexico

Tucked away in coffee country, this remote fall is rarely visited by tourists.

11. La Fortuna Hidden Trail – Costa Rica

Most stick to the main trail, but the lesser-known back path offers incredible views and fewer crowds.

12. El Nicho Waterfalls – Cuba

Set deep in the Escambray Mountains, this hidden treasure offers swimming holes and dreamlike falls. 🏝️

South American Secret Waterfall

13. Gocta Falls (Alternate Trail) – Peru

One of the tallest waterfalls in the world, but the secret side trail offers more intimate views.

14. Siete Cascadas – Bolivia

A series of seven cascading waterfalls in Cochabamba, perfect for those seeking a true hidden gem.

15. Salto Aponguao – Venezuela

Hard to reach, but worth every minute—this waterfall plunges into a sparkling jungle pool.

Europe’s Best-Kept Secret Waterfall

16. Steall Waterfall – Scotland

Located in Glen Nevis, this fall requires a hike through lush terrain and crossing a rope bridge. 🧚

17. Cascade de Piscia di Gallo – Corsica, France

A scenic, lesser-known waterfall surrounded by pines and granite cliffs.

18. Zeleni Vir – Croatia

A stunning fall inside a cave-like rock formation, hidden in a nature park.

19. Trollafoss – Iceland

This remote Icelandic fall is a local favorite and remains off the tourist radar.

Asia’s Secret Waterfall Escapes

20. Nohkalikai Waterfall (Secret Side View) – India

While famous, few know about the hidden trail offering a surreal side angle of the fall.

21. Banyumala Twin Waterfalls – Bali, Indonesia

A peaceful haven with two flowing falls, ideal for a refreshing swim. 🏞️

22. Huay Mae Khamin – Thailand

Less known than Erawan Falls, this seven-tiered waterfall is a paradise to explore.

23. Manang Waterfall – Nepal

Accessible only by trekking, it rewards you with Himalayan serenity and icy waters.

Australia & New Zealand Hidden Gems

24. Josephine Falls – Queensland, Australia

A natural rock slide and crystal-clear pools make this waterfall a fun stop.

25. Erskine Falls – Victoria, Australia

Most tourists go to the main lookout, but the base trail offers stunning solitude.

26. Devils Punchbowl Falls – New Zealand

This fall in Arthur’s Pass is lesser known and enveloped in alpine mist. 🌫️

27. Purakaunui Falls – South Island, New Zealand

A beautiful three-tiered waterfall tucked in the Catlins, with barely any crowds.

Africa’s Untouched Cascades

28. Tugela Falls (Secret Trail) – South Africa

Take the secret trail for panoramic views of one of the world’s tallest waterfalls.

29. Kalandula Falls – Angola

Massive in scale, yet virtually untouched by tourism.

30. Sipi Falls – Uganda

Three separate falls along the foothills of Mount Elgon, each accessible by hidden trails.

More Hidden Waterfall to Explore in 2025

Here’s a list of more secret waterfall spots that are perfect for exploration in the upcoming year:

31. Hidden Falls – Yosemite, USA

32. Akaka Falls (Secret Viewpoint) – Hawaii, USA

33. Krushuna Falls – Bulgaria

34. Tinuy-an Falls – Philippines 🇵🇭

35. Yumbilla Falls – Peru

36. Kaparkan Falls – Abra, Philippines

37. Misol-Ha – Chiapas, Mexico

38. Hidden Waterfall Trail – Zion National Park, USA

39. El Limon Waterfall – Dominican Republic

40. Gitgit Waterfall – Bali

41. Iguazu Falls (Secret Side Trail) – Brazil

42. Gveleti Waterfalls – Georgia

43. Langfossen – Norway 🇳🇴

44. Chachani Falls – Peru

45. Nungnung Waterfall – Indonesia

46. Ouzoud Falls (Secret Cave) – Morocco

47. Multnomah Falls (Hidden Trail) – Oregon

48. Bridal Veil Falls – Colorado (Winter View)

49. Wallaman Falls (Alternative Path) – Australia

50. Serpentine Falls – Western Australia

51. Cascada de Tamul – Mexico (Boat Access Only)

52. La Reforma – Oaxaca

53. Laguna El Encanto Waterfall – Bolivia

54. Trollfossen – Norway

55. Cascade Blanche – Réunion Island

 Final Tips for Visiting Secret Waterfalls

Check weather – Rain can make access trails slippery or dangerous.
Pack smart – Waterproof gear, hiking boots, and extra clothes go a long way.
Download offline maps – Many secret waterfall locations have poor signal.
Respect nature – Leave no trace, don’t litter, and respect local customs.
Go with a local guide – Especially for remote trails or jungle paths.

In 2025, go beyond the ordinary and embrace the thrill of discovering the world’s most breathtaking secret waterfalls. From Asia’s jungles to Europe’s forests, from hidden American trails to remote African treasures—there’s a secret waterfall waiting just for you.