About Smith Falls
Smith Falls is a named waterfall in Cherry County, Nebraska, located about 12 miles east of Valentine. The U.S. Geological Survey records it on the Sparks 7.5-minute topographic quadrangle at 42°53′16″ N, 100°18′57″ W (42.88781, -100.31576). The nearest other waterfall in this directory is Berry Falls, 2.5 miles to the west.
Wooden steps lead down to the shallow pool of this dramatic cascade, reached via a gentle trail.
USGS gazetteer description: Highest waterfall in Nebraska with a vertical drop of 63 feet.
What Visitors Mention
Topics that come up most often in Google reviews of Smith Falls:
falls accessriver floatingtallest waterfallhandicap accessiblenature hikeremote getawaykayakingeasy walktrailbeautiful area
More Photos
333 visitor photos are available on the Google Maps listing.
Weather at Smith Falls
Full NWS forecastForecast for the waterfall's exact location, not the nearest town. Mountain weather can change quickly.
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Source: National Weather Service.
Conditions at Smith Falls
Sun and Daylight Today
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Times in Chicago time. Canyons and steep valleys lose direct sun earlier.
Elevation
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At the mapped waterfall point, from the USGS 3D Elevation Program. Expect cooler temperatures than in nearby towns at lower elevation.
Nearest Stream Gauge
Checking for USGS gauges within about 8 miles...
Live discharge in cubic feet per second (ft³/s). The gauge may be on a different stream than the falls; use the trend as a rough guide to how much water is running in the area.
Map and Directions
The marker shows the USGS-recorded position of Smith Falls. Trailheads and parking can be some distance from the falls themselves, so plan your route with an up-to-date trail map.
Visitor Ratings
Smith Falls holds a 4.8 average from 189 Google reviews. Distribution by star rating:
Before You Visit
- Water levels change quickly. Flow is usually strongest after rain and during snowmelt; see the best time to visit waterfalls.
- Stay back from the brink and off wet rock. Our waterfall safety guide covers the most common hazards.
- Check land ownership and access before you go. Some named falls sit on private property or in areas without a maintained trail.
- Download offline maps and save the coordinates 42.88781, -100.31576. Use our waterfall hike packing list.
Waterfalls Near Smith Falls
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Smith Falls located?
Smith Falls is in Cherry County, Nebraska, about 12 miles east of Valentine. Its coordinates are 42.88781, -100.31576 (42°53′16″ N, 100°18′57″ W).
What town is closest to Smith Falls?
The closest town with 1,000 or more residents is Valentine, NE, about 12 miles away in a straight line. Driving distance is usually longer, so check the route before you go.
What waterfalls are near Smith Falls?
The closest is Berry Falls (2.5 mi west). Others within reach include Tyler Falls (5.7 mi), Fort Falls (7.6 mi), and Snake River Falls (31 mi).
Which USGS topographic map shows Smith Falls?
Smith Falls appears on the USGS Sparks 7.5-minute quadrangle. You can view it in The National Map viewer or download the US Topo sheet for offline navigation.