Natural beauty isn't hard to find in the Hawkeye State: All you have to do is look around - and if you do, you just may come across caves, forests, rivers, bluffs, and even waterfalls in Iowa! If you spend enough time exploring, you'll find some of the prettiest scenery in the country in every corner of our great Midwestern State. Whether it's wild and scenic rivers, rolling Loess Hills, or gorgeous natural springs, there's always something to discover here. Check out the hidden waterfall near Decorah that will become your own little paradise.
Tucked into the limestone bluffs that tower above the Upper Iowa River valley, near the scenic college town of Decorah, you'll find the breathtaking Malanaphy Springs - a waterfall that plunges downward and into the river below.
The spring itself starts high above the river, rising from a crevice in the limestone bluffs. Savvy adventurers can hike up to the source.
Most visitors choose to hang out closer to the river, along a sixty foot cascade and a ten foot fall waterfall that pours into the Upper Iowa River.
In the summertime, splashing in the falls is the perfect way to beat the Midwestern heat.
There's no better picnic spot than among the rocks at the base of the falls, where you can relax to the sound of running water.
The best part of visiting Malanaphy Springs? It won't cost you a cent! You can visit the Malanaphy Springs Preserve and the Upper Iowa River any time you wish.
After a visit to Malanaphy Spring's, you'll be eager to visit all the other waterfalls in the Hawkeye State. While you're in town, visit another of the waterfalls in Iowa. They're located nearby, and you won't even need to hike to get to it.
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