When a lot of the country think of Iowa they imagine cornfields for as long as the eye can see. Or, just flat land without much to it. Luckily, those who live here or spend a lot of time here know that the reality could not be more different. We have a variety of landscape here and exploring every inch of it is our goal! This beautiful trail leading to a waterfall is a great way to do it.

One of our favorite waterfalls can be round within the Malanaphy Springs preserve area on the Upper Iowa River in Decorah.
Christopher B / TripAdvisor
In addition to being able to access the waterfall, visiting the area is a great way to get a better sense of just how diverse the Iowa landscape can be.
CW O'Brien / alltrails.com
The Malanaphy Falls Trail is about 1.8-miles. And because it’s an out-and-back route, it’s simple to follow. Make your way along the path, then turn around and head back the same way you came. Simple!
Kristen Sabin / alltrails.com
The route begins at the clearly marked trailhead and it should take about 20-minutes to reach the waterfall.
Robert Lowery / alltrails.com
And while the waterfall is our ultimate destination, the journey is just as beautiful. The trail makes its way through lush forest offering a ton of ways to remind you just how great Iowa is.
Jou Fang / Google

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What’s especially fun about the waterfall is just how hidden it feels. If you didn’t know it was there, you might not expect to see it. We love it any time of year!
Kienan Mick / Google
But, when the weather is warm we love taking a few minutes to cool off underneath the flow of water.
Jason Shaw / Google
Plan to spend some extra time here with a picnic to make a day of it.
Adam Marth / Google
You can even climb to the top of the falls. Always be careful around water, though, as things can become slippery.
Courtney Graham / Google
Once you’ve had enough, simply turn around and head back the same way you came!
Christopher B / TripAdvisor

Malanaphy Spring Falls Trail can be accessed year-round. You can learn more about it by checking out alltrails.com. You can also visit the official Decorah Tourism website for more information. Remember to practice social-distancing while you hike and take out anything you bring in. That means any snack, tracks and fellow-hikers!

Love the idea of an Iowa waterfall? How about visiting a few of them? The ultimate Iowa waterfalls road trip is right here and you’ll want to do it!

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Malanaphy Spring Falls, 2820 Bluffton Road, Decorah, Iowa, 52101