A waterfall elevator in Minecraft is a contraption that uses the force of flowing water to propel a player or item upwards. This feat is accomplished using the Bubble Column block, introduced in the Aquatic Update. When a player or item enters a Bubble Column, they begin to float upwards. Waterfall elevators can be used to quickly ascend tall structures or to transport items over long distances.
Waterfall elevators are relatively easy to build. The most basic design requires only a stack of Bubble Column blocks. More elaborate designs may incorporate other blocks, such as chests, hoppers, and signs. Waterfall elevators can be powered by any water source, such as a bucket of water, a waterlogged block, or a flowing river.