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
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
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




