NATURE TRAVEL. INSPIRATION
Join a Waterfall Challenge
Or create your own, either way, you won’t be disappointed

There’s no better place to find yourself than sitting by a waterfall and listening to its music. ― R. Kemler
Waterfall Challenges
Would you like to “Go Wild for Waterfalls” in California? You can also join the My Adventure Challenge to be a “Waterfall Chaser” anywhere in the world. Or, you can simply create your own.
You won’t be disappointed, so long as you get out there and feel the awe these natural wonders offer.
Waterfall challenges are a new concept to me. I am always up for a challenge and this seems like a perfect one. I haven’t decided yet if I am going to join one or create my own, but the challenge is accepted!
Disclaimer: This call to action for a waterfall challenge only suggests viewing and photographing the waterfalls, following all site guidelines. (Daredevils, please look elsewhere for your perfect TikTok-able stunt-double type adventure challenge suggestions.)
Lakes and Rivers vs. Waterfalls
I just realized that for years I have been holding on too literally to the lyrics of the R&B group TLC, Don’t go chasing waterfalls, stick to the lakes and rivers you’re used to. (For your listening pleasure click here and scroll down to the chorus.)
This song is about sticking with a slower pace and avoiding getting caught up in the fast life. I am referring to the lyrics’ more literal meaning. Everywhere I travel, I look for a water feature. Boat rides are my favorite. I believe that will remain so, but I am ready to chase more waterfalls. I have been missing out. The awe that would come from a waterfall challenge could do a body good. I have chased some but not as intentionally as I will if I am part of a waterfall challenge.
Past Waterfall Experiences and Tips
There is no experience necessary to take part in a waterfall challenge. I did a quick reflection on my waterfall experiences to get ready and to provide tips. Here is what I’ve got:
- Dunn’s River Falls in Jamaica is the only waterfall I have ever climbed. That was a fun experience each of the three times I tried it. Tip: Don’t take it lightly, it isn’t super steep the whole way but there are some challenging and slippery spots.
- I have to admit once I made a major hike up winding dusty hills in California to find a dry rock formation where there once was a beautiful waterfall (according to the online photos). It was a nice hike. There were some pretty vistas on the way. But, no waterfall that day. Tip: I strongly suggest checking conditions before setting out so you won’t be disappointed. In general, the geology that makes falls possible also prepares some quite amazing backdrops even if the falls are not the most impressive. I find each to be so different that they are “awemazing” in their own right. Dry rock formations are my least favorite.
- Niagra Falls in New York is the world’s most popular waterfall. I enjoyed it two times. My favorite experiences there are watching the firework presentation over the falls, the boat ride, crossing the bridge to Canada (Pre-covid), and the Cave of Winds, where you enter the “mist” zone for a more immersive and closer encounter. Tip: Make sure you check tours and schedule options for these more touristy attraction-type waterfalls.
Fun Fact: The name “Cave of the Winds” is a bit deceiving. In the 1800s there was a rock overhang — or a cave-like structure — that allowed people to stand under the Falls. The Cave collapsed in the early 1900s, but the name stuck.
My Most Recent Waterfall Experience and Tips
I recently traveled to Seven Tubs Recreation Area in the Pinchot State Forest, in Pennsylvania. Anice information board is available, and there is a handicap accessible trail to the first waterfall viewing bridge.




The trails from there offer many other gorgeous waterfall vantage points and woodland wonders. There is awe to be felt around every bend.






My favorite days in the woods always involve finding flowers. They try to hide sometimes, but if you spot them, don’t be afraid to step off the path and take a close-up view of their beauty.







Final Thoughts
I am new at waterfall challenges. I know it is going to be amazing! The last tip I have from my most recent waterfall experience: It is very tempting to get too close. Don’t.
Thanks for reading! I hope everyone starts chasing waterfalls as soon as they can.
Thanks to Glad Doggett for editing services through World Traveler’s Blog.

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