By
Vanessa Whiteside
on
May 4, 2026

Wonderful Kansas Waterfalls Worth Checking Out

Visitors may not think of Kansas as a place where they could enjoy the tranquility of falling water, but locals know differently.

Hidden cascades coupled with stunning natural scenery can be found at these tucked-away spots. Each promises a photo-worthy moment, especially after rainfall.

Chase Lake Falls

Cottonwood Falls

If a drive along the Flint Hills National Scenic Byway to find a hidden waterfall sounds like your ideal travel day, drive to Chase Lake Falls.

Also known as Prather Creek Falls, the three-tiered waterfall cascades 40 feet over rock shelves and is surrounded by trees. A one-mile trail to the water feature is considered easy, making it a good choice for a family outing. Head east of Cottonwood Falls to park and walk across the dam, where the entrance of the trail begins.

Photo provided by Toni Schneider

Chase Lake Falls

1130 Lake Road, Cottonwood Falls

(620) 767-5900

Website

Cowley State Fishing Lake Falls

Dexter

Some of the best views in nature are worth the effort. Located at the northwest end of the Cowley State Fishing Lake property, the no-cost tourist attraction was voted the #12 Most Beautiful Waterfall in the U.S. by Yahoo Travel.

Wear hiking shoes and consider using a trekking pole when traversing the steep, rocky terrain for a five-minute hike down to the water, where you can feel the misty spray from the 25-foot curtain.

Photo provided by Kurt Grimm

Cowley State Fishing Lake Falls

20467 US Hwy 166, Dexter

(620) 876-5730

Website

Santa Fe Lake Falls

Augusta

Another nature escape worth seeking out is Santa Fe Lake Falls, for the multi-layered veils of water descending 10 feet to its base. Entry into Santa Fe Lake is a fee-entry park, but it is worth the minimal cost to appreciate its awe-inspiring waterfall, followed by a day of outdoor recreation.

Follow the trail from the parking lot through a canopy of trees to the falls. Rated as a moderately difficult walk for experienced hikers, this walk recommends wearing appropriate footwear that you don’t mind getting wet.

Photo provided by Taner Thomas

Santa Fe Lake Falls

11367 SW Shore Drive, Augusta

(316) 775-9926

Website

 

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  • Vanessa Whiteside

    Vanessa Whiteside is a native Wichitan whose curiosity keeps her looking for new places to discover. She is a travel writer often seeking Midwest adventures and dining destinations, which are featured on her blog, www.onedelightfullife.com, earning her... Read more