The Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
About The Falls
The Falls in Missouri is a pretty, seasonally variable cascade tucked into a woodland setting — its flow swells after rains and in spring runoff and softens to a trickle in drier months. Framed by green foliage in summer and stark branches in winter, the falls are a popular stop for photographers and hikers looking for a short, restorative nature outing. The nearest developed campground is Udall Park, about 17.7 km away, so plan overnight stays accordingly.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Trail type: out-and-back. Difficulty: Moderate. Official USFS trail name/number, surface, grade, and class are not published for this route, so trail conditions can vary. Expect a steady climb in places and bring sturdy footwear, water, and basic navigation awareness — the route is straightforward but may include variable natural tread.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a peaceful natural setting with a waterfall that may be seasonal. The area is likely surrounded by forested landscapes, offering opportunities for photography and relaxation.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The trail may not be suitable for individuals with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at The Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at The Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are typically the best times to visit, as water flow is often higher due to rainfall.
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 trails hazardous.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on North Fork River, 5.3 miles away, not on The Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
285 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 82 years of record
2.14 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower 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 North Fork River near Tecumseh, MO (9 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
280 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
285 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
292 cfs
5/10Fri
Barely Flowing
292 cfs
5/10Sat
Barely Flowing
293 cfs
5/10Sun
Barely Flowing
320 cfs
3/10Mon
Barely Flowing
303 cfs
5/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early March to early June, peaking in May.
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 Bakersfield hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is The Falls Frozen?
Updated about 8 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately
The Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 67°F to 36°F.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- 285 ft³/s
Winter safety. Frozen falls are the one waterfall trip with a documented injury pattern: falling ice, and ice-glazed rock and trail. Wear microspikes, keep well back from the base and from overhangs, and never walk out on ice over moving water.
Estimate from Open-Meteo daily temperatures at the falls, the LiDAR-measured facing direction, and the nearest stream gauge. It is a likelihood, not a report from the trail.
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.
1-meter lidar shows the creek losing roughly 27 feet through The Falls over a long run of ledges. Elevation at the pin is about 634 feet.
The ground changes about 48 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 122 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face east and catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 634 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 27 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- East
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading east).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
The exact location of The Falls in Missouri is not well-documented. Visitors are advised to consult local resources or hiking guides for directions.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear. Visitors should check with local authorities or nearby parks for parking options.
Elevation
643 feet above sea level
Coordinates
36.688117° N, -92.197379° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Check local weather conditions before visiting, as water flow may depend on recent rainfall. Wear sturdy footwear and bring a map or GPS device if the trail is not well-marked.
Where to Stay
Quality Inn West Plains
Driftwood Resort Bull Shoals
Baymont by Wyndham West Plains
Holiday Inn Express & Suites West Plains Southwest by IHG
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
Udall Park
11 miles away · 9 sites
Overview Udall Park is for those looking for a more primitive campground conveniently located on the north end of Norfork Lake in Missouri. Recreation Sailing the open waters makes for an exciting water activity. Scuba diving in the lake is common, attracting divers from neighboring U.S. states. For visitors interested in fishing, Norfork Lake is stocked annually, and it's not unheard of to catch striped bass over 40 pounds. Facilities The 9 campsites within the park provide a more primitive ca
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions are not well-documented. Visitors may explore other natural areas or parks in Missouri.
Wildlife
The area may host typical Missouri wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Be cautious of ticks and other insects.
Cities near The Falls
Other waterfalls named The Falls
20 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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