Summer is usually the lowest flow season — drought makes it worse.

Most waterfalls drop to their lowest volume in late summer or early fall, before the rainy season kicks in. A drought just pushes that even further—sometimes to a trickle.

If you’re planning a trip, check the local river gauge data online. Many parks publish real-time flow rates. But generally, if you’re going in August or September, expect less water.

Drought conditions can also shift the low point earlier or make it last longer. The falls won’t “dry up” completely unless they’re seasonal, but the flow can get thin enough that the classic cascade shape disappears.

For the biggest show, go in spring or right after a storm.