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The Top 4 Hotels For Unlocking North America's Great Waterfalls

By: Hipmunk + Save to a List

Choosing the best waterfalls in North America is no easy task. Some incredible waterfalls, like Niagara Falls, are known worldwide, and a number of other less‐known beauties are still visit‐worthy. While it’s tough to be entirely objective, here are four of the top hotels well situated for exploring some of our favorite cascading waters.

1. Best Western Plus Dayton Hotel & Suites | Palouse Falls, WA

Photo: Mitch Pittman

Located in the Dayton historic district, this hotel is a convenient and family‐friendly option for visiting Palouse Falls State Park. With a drop of 186 ft. and a strong flow year‐round, Palouse Falls is easy to spot from several points in the park. Plan your visit around sunset for the best possible experience.

2. Holiday Inn Express Mill Valley | Alamere Falls, CA

Photo: Brian Heifferon

Near Sausalito and a mere 22 miles from Alamere Falls, this hotel is a great option for those looking to take on the 13‐mile roundtrip backcountry hike to touch the falls, as they pool right onto the beach. Alamere Falls is one of only two in California that fall over the coastal bluffs onto a beach.

3. Hotel Modera | Multnomah Falls, OR

Photo: Michael Matti

This modern boutique hotel is near the waterfront in Portland, just 25 minutes from the Portland Airport, and 40 minutes from the Mt. Hood National Forest. Native American legend has it that the Multnomah Falls, the tallest waterfall in the state, was once a Princess’ hidden bathing sanctuary. The view from Benson Bridge, located over the second cascade, is astonishing, but the lower tiers of the falls can only be seen from the lookout rocks at the base. While in the forest, don’t miss out on both Ramona Falls and Apparition Falls.

4. The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon | Havasu Falls, AZ

Photo: Bernini Ngo

The hike to Havasu Falls may be strenuous – the first couple of miles are a steep descent to the bottom of the Hualapai Canyon, and the last couple are by the blue‐green waters of Havasu Creek. Those who make the effort are rewarded with a stunning double waterfall that drops into crystal‐clear pool — jump in for a swim, perfect cool down on a hot day, and a way to recharge for the hike back. The hotel is nearly 3 hours away from the Hualapai Hilltop, where the hike will begin, but it is the premier choice for a great night’s sleep before and after a full day visiting the falls.

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