Discover the Tallest Waterfall in Nevada

Most people would not think to search for waterfalls in the driest state in the U.S., but that means they are more impressive when you find them. Many waterfalls in Nevada are seasonal, only occurring after rainy seasons or snowmelt from the weather at higher elevations. Other waterfalls meander down hillsides as terrain and water availability change. Some waterfalls are reported but never found again. It’s safe to say that you will not find some of the roaring wonders in other states, but a few tall waterfalls can be reached through hiking. So, what is the tallest waterfall in Nevada?

The Tallest Waterfall in Nevada

Though Big Falls (about 350 feet) and its sister, Mary Jane Falls (about 250 feet), in Mount Charleston, Nevada, are very popular hiking destinations, the title of the tallest waterfall in Nevada goes to Stonewall Falls. Stonewall Falls, located in Nye County, NV, near the Nellis Air Force Range and Nevada Test Site, consists of a stream that trickles down 400 feet of stone to a pool below. It is fed by Stonewall Spring, which flows at its most significant volume in March and April. Visitors must pass through the Air Force testing site to access the falls.

Where Is Stonewall Falls on the Map?

Stonewall Falls is located at the northwest base of Stonewall Mountain.

Wildlife Around Stonewall Falls

Mammals include mule deer, coyotes, bobcats, and badgers. The area is also home to smaller mammals like ground squirrels, pygmy rabbits, chipmunks, gophers, shrews, bats, and the big jumping mouse. Bighorn sheep have been in the region long enough to be included in cave petroglyphs.

Stonewall Falls is located near where the Great Basin, the Colorado Plateau, and the Mojave Desert meet. It is not far from Death Valley. Nearby wilderness areas include the Toiyabe Crest and the Desert National Wildlife Refuge. Wildlife numbers may be impacted since the mountain is within the Air Force Range and Nevada Test Site.

These desert lands include reptiles such as rattlesnakes, gopher snakes, and sidewinders. There are many lizard species and the desert tortoise, too. Amphibians include the Columbia spotted frog.

Bird populations tend to avoid military impact areas. Still, some wildlife reserves outside the testing area include the greater sage grouse, rock and canyon wrens, the American dipper, the golden eagle, goshawks, Cooper’s hawks, and owls. The region is also the habitat of the greater roadrunner.

Conclusion

So, Stonewall Falls is probably one of the lesser visited waterfalls in Nevada. Its remote location, combined with the presence of the military testing site, discourages many people from making the trip. That actually makes it a promising place to visit. Water in such a dry and thirsty land is something to see, especially when it’s the largest waterfall in Nevada.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Jess Kraft/Shutterstock.com