Black Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (3)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
100 ft
About Black Falls
Black Falls is a small, lesser-known waterfall located in Iowa. It is surrounded by natural beauty and is a peaceful spot for visitors seeking a quiet retreat. The waterfall may be seasonal and dependent on rainfall, so it is best visited during wetter months.
The Setting
Black Falls sits at 1,063 feet along the Upper Iowa River, in the foothills of Iowa.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 1.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 100 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
There is limited information about the trail leading to Black Falls. It may involve walking through natural terrain, and visitors should prepare for uneven surfaces.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a serene environment with a small waterfall that may vary in flow depending on recent rainfall. The area is likely surrounded by greenery and offers a quiet escape.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Black Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Black Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are typically the best times to visit, as the waterfall is more likely to have water flow during these seasons.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Visitors should be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall and uneven terrain. Check weather conditions before visiting, as heavy rainfall may make the area unsafe.
Current Water Conditions
535 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 24 years of record
4.12 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing higher than usual for this time of year.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Upper Iowa River at Bluffton, IA (9 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
535 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
535 cfs
5/10Mon
Barely Flowing
535 cfs
5/10Tue
Barely Flowing
535 cfs
5/10Wed
Barely Flowing
535 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
535 cfs
5/10Fri
Barely Flowing
535 cfs
5/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, mostly sunny (trip score 5/10).
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Cresco hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
The ground through the falls loses about 95 feet in steep steps rather than one leap. The ground at the falls is roughly 1,067 feet above sea level.
Both above and below, the ground is gentle; the falls are the one abrupt step in an otherwise easy-going creek. Facing north, the falls stay mostly shaded, with soft, even light all day.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,067 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 95 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- North
- Mostly shaded, so the light stays soft and even all day.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading north).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
The exact location of Black Falls is not widely documented. Visitors are encouraged to consult local resources or hiking guides for directions.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear. Visitors should plan ahead and check with local authorities or nearby parks for parking options.
Elevation
1,063 feet above sea level
Coordinates
43.417745° N, -92.012940° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Check weather conditions before visiting, as the waterfall may be seasonal. Wear sturdy footwear and bring water, as trail conditions are not well-documented.
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This easy 1.0 miles hike is straightforward — comfortable trail shoes and plenty of water should do. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
Osprey Daylite Daypack
Light, organized, and just the right size for a day hike — fits water, snacks, and layers.
Where to Stay
Super 8 by Wyndham Cresco IA
Quality Inn & Suites Decorah
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Decorah
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Decorah, IA
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions are not well-documented. Visitors may explore other natural areas or parks in Iowa.
Wildlife
The area may host common Midwestern wildlife such as birds, deer, and small mammals. Be cautious of ticks and other insects.
Cities near Black Falls
Other waterfalls named Black Falls
2 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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