Check Out Galena’s Beautiful and Easy-to-Visit Waterfall

Our area of the Tri-States has so much natural beauty to explore. The driftless region is truly a place where Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin take on an otherworldly quality along the bluffs, rivers, ridges, and caves. I mean, it certainly doesn't look like the rest of Iowa here.

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This weekend, my family checked another local favorite off our list when we visited Galena's very own waterfall... or spillway. So, I guess in this case it's not natural, but the man-made falls are worth a quick trip down Thunder Bay Road to this Tri-State must-visit spot.

Now, I have some more good news for those hoping to visit. These falls are truly for all to enjoy. Thunder Bay Falls isn’t some tucked-away, two-hour hike with bug spray required. It’s literally right off the road. You park, walk a few steps, and suddenly there’s this 40-foot curtain of water roaring down in front of you. Honestly, I didn’t expect it to be as impressive as it was. I mean, who doesn't love the sound of the rushing falls, and if you stand close enough, you'll get hit with some mist.

What I think makes it special is how it changes with the seasons. In spring, after all the rain and snowmelt, it lives up to its “Thunder Bay” name. We had had some substantial rain leading up to our visit, but I bet it's even more impressive now after the additional inches we've received lately. Usually, summer is calmer at the spillway, but it's surrounded by greenery and loads of animal life.

And if you catch it in winter, it freezes into these amazing ice formations.

It’s quick, it’s easy, and it’s one of those places you can show off to friends visiting from out of town. Next time you’re heading through Galena, take a quick detour by Thunder Bay Road and check it out. It may be man-made, but trust me, you’ll walk away impressed and refreshed.