Summary
Arizona is a state characterized by its diverse environments, ranging from arid desert regions and towering mountains to verdant landscapes surrounding Flagstaff.
The hot climate necessitates finding ways to cool off, especially during the summer months.
Fortunately, Arizona boasts over 15 stunning waterfalls, particularly in the Havasu region, providing opportunities to swim, relax, and appreciate the stunning natural scenery.
1. Fossil Creek Falls
Fossil Creek Falls is situated near Pine, Arizona.
Hikers must locate the Fossil Creek Waterfall Trailhead.
The waterfall has a drop of 25 feet, with a deep pool located below it.
Cliff jumping is allowed at this site, but it is essential to assess the water level prior to attempting any jumps.
There are several designated swimming areas.
No fees are required for visiting Fossil Creek, as it is not located within a designated park.
The hike to the falls is approximately 1.5 miles, easy enough for families to enjoy.
2. Cibecue Falls
Cibecue Falls offers a remarkable hiking experience on its own, or it can be combined with visits to nearby waterfalls for those seeking an extended workout.
To reach Cibecue Falls, hikers must head to the Cibecue Creek Falls Trailhead in Gila County, Arizona.
This moderate hike spans 4 miles, with an elevation gain of 220 feet.
The trailhead is accessible via a dirt road located within the Salt River Canyon region.
The waterfall itself is 30 feet high.
3. Seven Falls
Seven Falls is situated in Sabino Canyon within the Catalina Foothills.
This area offers 2.5 miles of hiking through lush landscapes.
While the Catalina Foothills are close to Tucson, known for its arid environment, the waterfall area presents a contrasting forest filled with cascading waters falling into a substantial pool where visitors can refresh themselves.
The hiking route features an elevation gain of over 900 feet.
4. Ribbon Falls
Ribbon Falls is located along the North Kaibab Trail within the Grand Canyon National Park.
Visitors can access it via the North Rim in Arizona.
This waterfall is situated in a secluded area of the park, yet it is readily accessible for a day trip.
The roundtrip hiking distance totals 16.8 miles, with an elevation gain of 4,521 feet.
The hike is categorized as intermediate in difficulty.
The trailhead can be located approximately 1.5 miles from the Grand Canyon Lodge.
5. Pacheta Falls
Pacheta Falls is located near Whiteriver, Arizona, with several entrances available to the hiking area.
This waterfall is situated within the White Mountains region.
To access the area, hikers must enter the White Mountain Apache Reservation and obtain a special permit for driving in this area.
Please note that swimming is prohibited at this waterfall.
The route requires an off-road vehicle, as only high-profile vehicles are permitted.
The exact height of the waterfall remains unknown; however, there is no elevation gain for the hike.
The trail length is approximately 2.5 miles and is accessible throughout the year, excluding winter months.
6. Romero Pools
Romero Pools, located near Tucson, Arizona, can be accessed via the Romero Canyon Trail.
Hikers need to go to Catalina State Park to locate the trailhead, where a per vehicle fee applies.
The one-way distance is 2.8 miles; the initial mile is relatively easy before becoming more challenging.
The last mile features rocky terrain and includes a considerable incline.
The total hike spans 5.6 miles with an elevation gain of 900 feet.
The pools are nourished by the Romero falls and provide a refreshing dip for visitors looking to escape the heat.
Access is available year-round.
7. Hidden Falls
Hidden Falls is located within the Havasupai Reservation, accessible via the Havasu Campground in Supai, Arizona.
This waterfall has a vertical drop of fifty feet, with cliff jumping permitted for adventurous visitors.
A short trail from Navajo at the campground leads hikers across a bridge to the falls.
As the picnic area comes into view, the falls are only a short distance from that point.
The cascades feature three drops, measuring 30, 40, and 50 feet.
The distance from the campground to the falls is one mile one-way, making it an easy hike open throughout the year, although the rainy season does provide more water flow.
8. Grand Falls
Grand Falls presents a more adventurous experience as visitors must navigate off-road to reach the location.
The nearest town is Flagstaff.
Grand Falls is situated within the Navajo Nation, requiring visitors to secure permission to travel along the dirt road leading to the picnic area located at the base of the falls.
A notable feature of Grand Falls is its muddy waters, which appear almost chocolate-colored as they cascade 185 feet from the top of the Little Colorado River to the pool below.
The waterfall is best appreciated during snowmelt or following heavy rainfall.
At times outside of these periods, the falls can be completely dry due to Arizona’s climate.
9. Tanque Verde Falls
Tanque Verde Falls can be accessed starting from the Lower Tanque Verde Falls Trailhead near Tucson, Arizona.
This waterfall rises to 80 feet, with a swimming area available beneath it.
A 4×4 vehicle is required to reach the trailhead for this hike.
The trail begins with a one-mile path to the lower Tanque, which features a 30-foot cascade.
Just a short distance further leads to the 80-foot waterfall plunging into the deep pool below.
Cliff jumping has been attempted here, but caution is advised due to the slippery rocks and powerful currents.
A rope swing is available for added enjoyment.
The entire hiking distance totals 1.6 miles, with an elevation gain of 100 feet.
This route is rated medium in difficulty and is best visited during spring, autumn, and summer.
10. Water Wheel and Ellison Creek Cascades
The Water Wheel and Ellison Creek waterfall are located near Payson, Arizona.
This site is particularly unique due to the sheer rock walls shaped by river erosion.
The hiking path begins at the Water Wheel, close to a designated day-use area.
The trail runs parallel to the river and ultimately leads to the Ellison Creek waterfall.
A swimming hole exists here, and cliff jumping is allowed.
For those interested in a longer hike, it is possible to continue to Bridal Veil Falls, located just a short distance from Ellison.
The swimming hole area is available after a quarter-mile walk.
Ellison Cascades rise to 80 feet, and hikers should prepare for a $6 entry fee.
The total distance to the swimming hole and additional falls is 1.8 miles, including an elevation gain of 105 feet.
Year-round access is permitted, with an easy route to the various areas present.
11. Apache Falls
Apache Falls are part of the Salt River Canyon in San Carlos, Arizona.
The hike to the falls is approximately 1 mile, with a 100-foot elevation gain.
This location is accessible year-round and offers an easy hiking experience.
Being situated on a river, Apache Falls maintains a consistent water flow throughout the year.
Furthermore, visitors may combine this hike with a visit to Cibecue Falls.
Access to this area necessitates entry to the San Carlos Apache Recreation area.
Visitors may also enter via the adjacent White Mountain Apache Salt River Canyon Recreation Area.
Both points of entry require a permit, which can be obtained online through the tribe’s website or locally.
12. Navajo Falls
Navajo Falls, located in Supai, Arizona, is among the state’s most frequented waterfalls.
Its proximity to Havasu Falls enhances its appeal and accessibility for visitors year-round.
It is crucial to note that flooding can occur during the monsoon season; indeed, Navajo Falls was formed in August 2008 due to such conditions.
The waterfall is closest to the Havasupai Campground.
With significant height, it features a deep collecting pool below, providing opportunities for cliff jumping and swimming.
The hiking distance totals 1.2 miles, with an elevation gain of 500 feet.
Spring, summer, and fall are the optimal seasons for exploring this area.
This trail is suitable for beginner hikers.
13. Mooney Falls
Mooney Falls, another beautiful waterfall, is also located near the Havasupai Campground in Supai, Arizona.
This waterfall plunges an impressive 200 feet into crystal-clear pools below.
The hiking route to this location is challenging, often requiring the use of chains and ladders to navigate the trail.
Portions of the falls were created due to the remnants of nearby mining tunnels.
The total hiking distance is only 0.5 miles.
The elevation gain to view the top and bottom of the falls is 200 feet.
Winter is not an advisable time for this trail due to potential hazards.
14. Beaver Falls
Beaver Falls is an appealing waterfall located near the Havasupai Campground in Supai, Arizona.
This waterfall is characterized by its cascading flow over several boulders, creating shallow pools rather than a direct plunge.
The roundtrip distance to the falls is approximately eight miles.
The hiking trail is of intermediate difficulty but remains accessible throughout the year.
Visitors can take the path leading to Mooney Falls, descend the cliff, and continue onto Beaver Falls, making for a longer yet rewarding journey.
15. Havasu Falls
Havasu Falls, situated in Supai, Arizona, features a breathtaking waterfall that plunges into a deep swimming pool.
Located within the Havasupai Reservation, this remote area of the Grand Canyon National Park requires a 10-mile roundtrip hike to access.
Notably, the elevation gain is a descent of approximately 2,000 feet as hikers make their way to the foot of the falls.
