Best Waterfalls in Arizona: 12 Local Favorites & Hidden Gems
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Jackie Ann
Author
Arizona is an outstandingly amazing state that gets a lot of credit for, well, very specific things. Sure, everyone’s heard of the Grand Canyon, and most folks have the beautiful red rocks of Sedona on their travel bucket list at some point or another, but interestingly, Arizona is SO much more magic-filled than anyone other than those lucky enough to be born here can usually realize. Did you know, for example, that Arizona is home to 34 incredible state parks, 24 National Parks units, and well over 1,000 miles of incredible hiking trails? Yup – and better still, did you know that there are a number of jaw-dropping waterfalls in Arizona, too? In fact, let’s take a moment to reflect on (see what we did there?) these stunning cascades.
Tallest Waterfalls In Arizona
Let’s be real here for a moment – Arizona isn’t exactly known for being an oasis or anything like an oasis. In fact, most folks think about cacti and sagebrush when they imagine the Copper State, but perhaps they ought to think about our assortment of waterfalls, too. Perhaps obviously, some of these waterfalls are taller than others, and Arizona’s tallest waterfalls are SO incredible that they’ve become something of a legend among the outdoorsy.
1. Cheyava Falls
Cheyava Falls, Arizona 86052, USA
When people think of the tallest waterfalls in Arizona, they usually think of Havasupai Falls – but this is simply incorrect. While Havasupai Falls is a cascade year-round, Cheyava Falls (which is considerably larger) is only around sometimes. But when it IS around, it’s incredible, coming in at an awe-inspiring 800 feet tall. This hike is recommended only for expert hikers, as it’s about 16 miles long round-trip and requires some difficult river crossings. Remember: more people die in the canyon from dehydration than anything else. Pack more than enough water, and plan your trip well ahead of time. But we promise: should you experience this incredible waterfall, you’ll never forget it.
Check out this incredible video showing off the true beauty of this little-known natural wonder:
2. Grand Falls
Grand Falls, Arizona, Arizona 86035, USA
Grand Falls was once a favorite spot for hikers, campers and outdoors enthusiasts thanks to its remarkable size. Fed by snowmelt from the White Mountains and located just 30 miles from Flag, this cascade is 185 feet high in total (though it’s got some multi-tiered, stair-step action going on) and drains into the Little Colorado River. It’s a natural waterfall and is truly majestic – it's incredibly tragic that folks abused the privilege of visiting, causing the Navajo Nation to end allowing tourists in. Nevertheless, this is one of the largest cascades in Arizona, and it’s definitely worth mentioning.
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3. Mooney Falls
Mooney Falls, Supai, AZ 86435, USA
Mooney Falls is one of five utterly incredible, beautiful waterfalls within the Grand Canyon, and it is the tallest, coming in at an amazing 196 feet in height. The hike to reach it is actually pretty short, depending on which campground you end up at down there. It’s not easy, though – you'll meander through narrow passages, scale down rockfaces using chains, and navigate ladders. The base of the falls is tough to reach, and some folks have lost their lives going for it – so you MUST be a sure-footed, experienced hiker for this one.
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Best Waterfall Hikes In Arizona
If you’re hoping to hike your way to a cascade or two, you’re in luck: many Arizona waterfalls are accessible only on foot via hiking trails – many of which can be quite lengthy. However, every Arizona cascade is worthy of the adventure it takes to reach it, and goodness, is it rewarding. So, let’s take a look at some of the best waterfall hikes in Arizona:
4. Seven Falls
Seven Falls, 5700 N Sabino Canyon Rd, Tucson, AZ 85750, USA
When it comes to incredibly beautiful waterfalls in Arizona , few are as lovely as Seven Falls just so happens to be. This hike is popular despite its somewhat challenging nature, though arriving at the trailhead as early as possible and during the week is probably your best bet. The best way to enjoy this trail is with water-friendly footwear – you'll definitely want to splash around a bit, especially on a hot day. The views leading up to the waterfall offer all the wonders of the desert landscape, and the falls are made up of seven (surprise) cascades that tumble from a natural amphitheater 181 feet in height. Tucson is already amazing – this stunning waterfall only makes it more so.
5. Beaver Falls
Beaver Falls, Arizona 86435, USA
If you’ve done – or are planning to do – the hike to Mooney Falls that we mentioned earlier, then you might as well keep going and get to Beaver Falls, too! You’ll make a few water crossings and will encounter some awe-inspiring views of the natural wonders that surround you on all sides. The Havasupai Indian Reservation does NOT allow day-hiking, so you’ll definitely need to include this waterfall trail while visiting the others mentioned on this list – there are truly an amazing number of waterfalls down here that make for top-shelf lounging and clear water swimming. This beautiful Arizona waterfall is an impressive 48 feet tall, with multiple tiers. Like just about every cascade in this general area, it’s worth every step of effort to reach. We promise... which brings us to our next waterfall – one you’ve very probably heard of before.
6. Havasu Falls
Havasu Falls, Arizona 86435, USA
Havasu Falls might be Arizona’s most famous waterfall by far; it’s 98 feet tall and in the spring (or during monsoon season) it roars. Its unique, bright turquoise color is an amazing contrast to the red rocks that surround it, and when it comes to swimming holes, this one might just be one of the world’s best. There are only so many permits given out, and reservations typically begin on February 1st for the coming year. We definitely recommend that one reserves well in advance – up to a year! But we promise: this waterfall is the Grand Canyon State’s most famous for SO many reasons, and every last one of ‘em makes the difficult journey to reach it (and return) so very worth it.
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7. Pacheta Falls
Pacheta Falls, Whiteriver, AZ 85941, USA
Pacheta Falls is an amazing hidden gem that only the most determined tend to reach. It’s located in the White Mountains on Apache land, and it requires a decent amount of planning and preparation to reach. As we mentioned above, the drive to reach the trailhead for this hike is difficult and only suitable for those who have vehicles capable of making the trip. First, you’ll come upon Pacheta Lake – and that’s usually where most folks stop. However, if you keep going, you’ll be enormously rewarded with one of Arizona’s most beautiful hidden gems: a cascading waterfall deep in the woods.
Accessible Waterfalls In Arizona (No Hiking Required)
If hiking isn’t necessarily your thing, no worries – there are also a handful of wonderful waterfalls that can be accessed without hiking. Simply show up and enjoy! Of course, some of these might be a little less spectacular than, say, Havasu Falls – but we promise each of them are going to be worth your time, too! Come out and enjoy some of Arizona’s most accessible waterfalls:
8. Tonto Natural Bridge
Tonto Natural Bridge State Park, Nf-583A, Pine, AZ 85544, USA
Tonto Natural Bridge is a stunning natural wonder in Arizona. It’s the largest travertine bridge in the world, and it’s absolutely jaw-dropping in its beauty. The “bridge”, as it's called, is 183 feet in height and the tunnel behind it is about 400 feet long. The waterfall that trickles down from it is a “bridal veil” style waterfall – petite, ghostly, and absolutely beautiful. All you need to do to reach it is walk a paved sidewalk path with just a few large stair-steps on the way down. It’s a super easy walk and you get right up to the falls! It’s a true delight.
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9. Workman Creek Falls
Workman Creek Falls, Arizona 85554, USA
Workman Creek Falls is another waterfall that requires some effort to reach, but only if you want to repel to the base of the falls like many folks do choose to. Otherwise, you can opt to make the somewhat sketchy drive over rough dirt roads to get to it, and we promise it’s every bit as worth it as it sounds. This waterfall is a stunning 200 feet in height and is absolutely astonishing to see when it’s at its best. Plan your trip with some tact; plan for a day or two after a good monsoon rain to allow the muddy roads a chance to dry without detracting from the experience of a roaring cascade.
Best Waterfalls near Phoenix
Phoenix is Arizona’s capital, and to say it’s a desert paradise is to understate things a bit. Believe it or not, there are several waterfalls in Arizona that are perfect for a day trip from Phoenix thanks to their close proximity to the city. Come out and be amazed at these gorgeous cascades that Phoenicians don’t have to meander too far to find:
10. Fossil Creek / Fossil Creek Falls
Fossil Creek Waterfall, Camp Verde, AZ 86322, USA
Hidden away at Fossil Creek within the woods nearby Strawberry, Fossil Creek Falls is one of Arizona’s worst-kept secrets. It’s incredibly popular, particularly in the summer, and it’s located less than two hours out of Phoenix – which is probably one of the many reasons why this amazing waterfall is among the state’s most beloved. Fossil Creek Falls is about 15 feet in height, and if you meander along the river, you’re sure to find even more, smaller waterfalls to enjoy. This entire area is intensely beautiful, and it’s easy to forget you’re still in the desert southwest while you’re here.
11. Cibecue Falls
Cibecue Creek, Arizona, USA
Cibecue Falls is one of our favorite hidden gems, and it’s located just under three hours from Phoenix and three hours from Tucson, as well. This Arizona waterfall makes for the perfect day trip out of Arizona’s capital city, and the three-mile, out-and-back trek that is the way up to the water is a wonderful adventure in and of itself. Should you do the hike to Cibecue Falls, be ready to get your feet wet – there are at least ten river crossings! This waterfall is an impressive 40 feet tall and is 200% worth the effort.
12. Water Wheel Falls
Water Wheel Falls Hiking Trail, Payson, AZ 85541, USA
Water Wheel Falls is a spectacular series of waterfalls along a hike near Payson, Arizona. You’ll need a Discovery Pass to park, so plan accordingly. This trail tends to flood in the summer, so visit on a day where there’s no rain in the forecast. Once you reach Water Wheel Falls, you can keep going if you like to check out the Ellison Creek Cascades. These waterfalls are among the most wonderful ones you’ll find in the desert southwest.
So, there you have them: one dozen stunning waterfalls in Arizona that most folks don’t even know exist. Nobody really thinks of waterfalls when they think about the Copper State, but honestly, we think they ought to. As it turns out, there are numerous waterfalls scattered throughout the state, and every one of them is worthy of adventure. So whether you’d prefer to hike in, drive up, or anything else – you’re sure to find the perfect Arizona waterfalls for your hopes and dreams. Enjoy!
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