7 Swimming Spots With The Clearest, Most Pristine Water In Arizona
By Monica Spencer|Published August 17, 2016
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Monica Spencer
Author
Monica is a Diné (Navajo) freelance writer and photographer based in the Southwest. Born in Gallup and raised in Phoenix, she is Tódich'ii'nii (Bitter Water People) and Tsi'naajinii (Black Streak Wood People). Monica is a staff writer for Only In Your State, photo editor for The Mesa Legend, and previously a staff writer for The Navajo Post. You can reach her at monica.d.spencer@gmail.com.
As much as I wish the fall season was already here, I am glad that we Arizonans get just a little more time to enjoy the more traditional summer activities. Swimming in local lakes, hiking in the mountains, getting a nice, crispy burn because you forgot sunscreen; these are all activities that Arizonans get to experience at least a month longer than our friends in other parts of the country.
With that in mind, we’re going to take a look at some spots around the state that feature lovely, crystal clear water that is perfect for a mid-day swim from now through early October. In fact, it’s even better that we post this article after school started up because these spots will be even quieter, especially on weekdays, making a visit to any of these seven spots perfect for a quick escape from your hectic life.
So, take a look at these lakes and swimming holes to find your next favorite retreat:
It’s not difficult to see why Fossil Creek is such a popular spot because this place really has it all: waterfalls, hiking trails, wildlife, and crystal clear water. There’s plenty of shady spots and the water stays a refreshing 70-degrees.
Found just a couple miles north of Sedona, Grasshopper Point is an easily accessible retreat that is just off the highway. The water here is clear and just right for wading and swimming in the mid-August heat.
One of several refreshing pools in Sabino Canyon, this one is great for cooling off from an early morning hike before heading back to the trailhead. The pool is popular so if you want a quieter experience, plan your visit for a weekday.
Beautiful and secluded, this lake sits along the Mogollon Rim and is quite the treat for campers at the nearby Knoll Lake Campground and hikers passing through. The lake goes down 50 feet, so you may not be able to see the bottom well but the water does become a lovely shade of blue-green here.
Arizona’s West Coast doesn’t get mentioned often but here’s a spot where that part of the state really shines. Lake Mohave, shared with our neighbor Nevada, is just north of Bullhead City and the clear waters here are sure to impress you! Wading and kayaking through the lake will not only show off the natural beauty of western Arizona but also introduce you to some hidden little coves and beaches along the river.
Havasu Falls tends to get all the press when it comes to refreshing swimming spots but Mooney Falls is just a hike away and just as lovely. You might also find the crowd here to be smaller, which is a definite plus!
West Clear Creek runs east-west from Clints Well to Camp Verde but the real spot to visit here is the "Bullpen," which can be accessed by dirt roads. The day-use area is located at the very west end of the West Clear Creek Wilderness and the 9 to 10-foot deep pools are popular for swimmers and hikers.
