List of waterfalls by type

Some waterfalls are also distinct in that they do not flow continuously. Ephemeral waterfalls only flow after a rain or a significant snowmelt.[3][4][5]

The following is a list of waterfalls by type.

• Plunge: Water descends vertically, losing contact with the bedrock surface.[1]
• Horsetail: Descending water maintains some contact with bedrock.[1]
• Cataract: A large, powerful waterfall.[1]
• Multi-step: A series of waterfalls one after another of roughly the same size each with its own sunken plunge pool.[1]
• Block: Water descends from a relatively wide stream or river.[1][2]
• Cascade: Water descends a series of rock steps.[1][2]
• Segmented: Distinctly separate flows of water form as it descends.[1]
• Tiered: Water drops in a series of distinct steps or falls.[1]
• Punchbowl: Water descends in a constricted form and then spreads out in a wider pool.[1]
• Fan: Water spreads horizontally as it descends while remaining in contact with bedrock.[1]