looking at my server list on minecraft and i am seeing Waterfall 1.8.x, 1.9.x, and 1.10. every time i try to get in, it said the server is outdated

Have you tried 1.10.2? That's what I use and I am able to join without a problem. Make sure you are using the correct ip and maybe update your java if it's not already up to date.

You have to be using 1.10.2 to log into the server. After the server restarts tonight you will be able to use 1.11 to log in aswell.

i know, i did that, it just weird how version 1.11 was not revealed on the minecraft screen after you start it up and before you press the play button

I had the same problem myself actually but it has been fixed since. The server is updating to 1.11 in a few days so no further problems should arise with it being outdated for I while <object class="emojione" data="https://resources.enjin.com/1489581540/themes/core/images/emojione/svg/1f600.svg?0" type="image/svg+xml" standby=":d">:d</object>