Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
100 ft
About Falling Water
Falling Waters is a unique waterfall located in Falling Waters State Park, Florida. It is the tallest waterfall in the state, where water cascades into a deep sinkhole, disappearing underground. The waterfall is fed by a small stream and is most active after heavy rains.
The Setting
Falling Water sits at 177 feet within Falling Waters State Park, in the coastal lowlands of Florida. The falls drop 73 feet.
Height: 73 feet
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 0.5-mile out-and-back trail gains 100 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Falling Waters is a short, well-maintained loop that passes through a pine forest and boardwalks leading to the waterfall. The path is mostly flat with some stairs near the viewing platform.
What to Expect
The falls drop 73 feet. Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Falling Water?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $5.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Falling Water?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit is after heavy rains, typically in spring or summer, to see the waterfall at its fullest.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Safety Information
Be cautious on the boardwalk and stairs, as they can be slippery when wet. Stay on marked trails and supervise children near the sinkhole.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Chipley 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 bare-earth surface loses about 62 feet through the falls, but gradually, the profile of a cascade rather than a plunge. The listed height of 73 feet matches what the lidar sees. The ground at the falls is roughly 178 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 30 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 50 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing southwest, the falls glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 178 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 62 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southwest
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Falling Waters State Park is located near Chipley, Florida, off Interstate 10. The park is well-marked and accessible by car.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Ample parking is available at the state park near the trailhead.
Elevation
177 feet above sea level
Coordinates
30.724360° N, -85.529651° W
Land Management
Managed by SPR
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit after a rainstorm for the best waterfall flow. Wear comfortable walking shoes, and bring insect repellent, especially in warmer months. The boardwalk can be slippery when wet.
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For this easy 0.5 miles trail, lightweight trail shoes and a water bottle are usually sufficient. Icy conditions are common in winter — traction cleats are a smart addition.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
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.
Kahtoola MICROspikes
Cult-favorite traction cleats that grip ice and wet rock — essential for winter waterfall hikes.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
Where to Stay
Comfort Inn & Suites Chipley I-10
Fairfield Inn & Suites Marianna
Quality Inn Chipley I-10 at Exit 120
Super 8 by Wyndham Chipley
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
The park also features a small lake with a swimming area, picnic facilities, and a campground. Nearby attractions include the town of Chipley and other natural areas in the Florida Panhandle.
Wildlife
Visitors may encounter birds, squirrels, and other small wildlife. The park is also home to various native plants and flowers.
Cities near Falling Water
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