The Best Waterfall Hikes in Arizona

We know you've heard of Havasu Falls and likely pined for the chance to go, so naturally, it tops this list. But you may not have known just how many other incredible waterfalls litter the desert landscape in Arizona. Between the treks in the Havasupai Reservation, easy day hikes to cascades and swimming holes all across the state, and even some falls just steps from your car, Arizona definitely won't leave you hanging high and dry. Whether you plan to make a run for the elusive Havasu Falls (pro tip: relentless phone calls can score you a last minute permit!) or you're looking for something you can pull off anytime, we've got you covered.

1. Backpack to Havasu Falls in the Havasupai Reservation

Distance: 10.4 miles
Elevation: 1647 ft
Type: Out-and-back
Best time to visit: Early Spring or late Fall (March, April, May, September, October, November)

Havasu Falls will not be open to tourism in 2022. The Havasupai Tribal Council has extended suspension of visiting the falls while necessary repairs are being made to ensure a safe and pleasant experience for all. Please be respectful of these restrictions. Continue to check for new updates here.

Right outside of Grand Canyon National Park, Havasu falls is a stunning oasis of turquoise waters with a jaw-dropping cascading backdrop. Though the spot itself is very remote, camping in the canyon is quite popular. Be sure to make reservations ahead of time to ensure entrance. For less crowds, visit during shoulder season.

2. Cliff Jump at Fossil Creek Falls

Distance: 2.42 miles
Elevation: 329 ft
Type: Out-and-back
Best time to visit: Year-round; Parking permits/reservations are required during the Spring-Summer Season (April 1- October 1) and must be made in advance here; No fees or permits required in Fall-Winter (October 2 - March 31)

In the summer of 2021, a wildfire destroyed part of the area and caused significant damage. Please stay up to date to know when and where you can visit for the duration of 2022. Note that Fossil Creek may close temporarily in early 2023 to complete resurfacing of Forest Road 708.

Fossil Creek is a 25-ft picturesque falls with opportunities for swimming and camping nearby. The trek to arrive at the trailhead for this photo-worthy location includes a 21-mile stretch of narrow, winding, unpaved road. Drive with a suitable (preferably offroading) vehicle and with caution. Don’t let this drive deter you! The crystal clear waters and lush desert surroundings are worth the journey to get here.

3. Hike to Beaver Falls

Distance: 5.28 miles
Elevation: 1200 ft
Type: Out-and-back
Best time to visit: Early Spring or late Fall (March, April, May, September, October, November)

Beaver Falls is located on the tribal lands of the Havasupai Tribe and will remain closed to tourists for the remainder of the 2022 season as the necessary repairs and enhancements are being made. No new reservations will be available for purchase while tourism is suspended. Check back for updates here. Also note that day hiking to these falls is not allowed. You must be camping at Havasu with a reservation made in advance.

Visit this unbelievable destination to view stunning cascading waterfalls pouring over limestone terraces. And don’t forget to bring a bathing suit to swim in the gorgeous blue waters of Havasu Creek during the hot months. Enjoy a little more solitude as Beaver Falls is typically less busy than the nearby Havasu and Mooney Falls. To reach the falls, proceed with caution as much of the hike is steep and does require the use of ladders/chains (already in place) at some points of the descent. Don’t attempt this waterfall hike in harsh weather conditions.

4. Hike to Cibecue Falls

Distance: 2.94 miles
Elevation: 600 ft
Type: Out-and-back
Best time to visit: May or early June (trail often closes during monsoon season due to flash floods)

Hike to Cibecue Falls and spend the day relaxing and sightseeing. The road to get to the trailhead is a bumpy dirt lane, so go slow and be careful. The journey, however, is certainly worth it if you’ve been aching for a great canyon adventure! Explore natural caves and keep an eye out for wildlife. Wear appropriate shoes– your feet will get wet from creek crossings! Note that a Cibecue Falls Access Permit is required for all individuals for $30 per person/day. Camping, swimming, and fishing is not permitted at these falls.

5. Hike to Mooney Falls

Distance: 1.36 miles
Elevation: 200 ft
Type: Out-and-back
Best time to visit: Early Spring or late Fall (March, April, May, September, October, November)

Mooney Falls is located on the tribal lands of the Havasupai Tribe and will remain closed to tourists for the remainder of the 2022 season as the necessary repairs and enhancements are being made. No new reservations will be available for purchase while tourism is suspended. Check back for updates here.

Mooney Falls is one of the grandest sights in the Grand Canyon. At roughly 200 ft tall, it's the tallest waterfall in Havasupai! Note that this hike doesn’t come without its challenges. You’ll need to hold tightly onto chains and walk down ladders to descend the cliff face. Tip: wear gloves to grab onto the chains, which can become slippery from spray from the falls. Part of the trail will lead you through an old mining tunnel, making for a memorable experience. The current of the pool can be quite dangerous, so swimming is not advised here. Regardless of these obstacles, the sight of the falls and the surrounding terrain is jaw-dropping and a worthwhile challenge.

6. Hike to Seven Falls

Distance: 8.3 miles
Elevation: 917 ft
Type: Out-and-back
Best time to visit: Between November to March (when temperature is more bearable)

Located in Sabino Canyon in Tucson, Arizona, Seven Falls is a rather popular destination for good reason! On this beautiful canyon hike, you’ll arrive at an oasis right in the middle of the desert. Expect some river crossings and trekking through forests of saguaros, sycamore, cottonwood trees, and various types of cacti along the way. Spend the day taking in the views and wading in the water or going for a full swim to cool off, especially in the hotter Arizona months. Bring plenty of water to keep you hydrated on this desert adventure!

7. Hike to Navajo Falls

Distance: 1.4 miles
Elevation: 249 ft
Type: Out-and-back
Best time to visit: Early Spring or late Fall (March, April, May, September, October, November)

Navajo Falls is located on the tribal lands of the Havasupai Tribe and will remain closed to tourists for the remainder of the 2022 season as the necessary repairs and enhancements are being made. No new reservations will be available for purchase while tourism is suspended. Check back for updates here. 

Navajo Falls is not one, but a series of impressive falls just upstream of the popular Havasu Falls. A flash flood in the canyon in 2008 resulted in an altered landscape which now includes this idyllic gem. Watch as water cascades into refreshing pools below at both Upper and Lower Navajo Falls connected by a series of falls that flow in between. Note that Upper Navajo Falls is tucked away and may be missed if you don’t do some thorough exploring of the area! Be sure to spend some time walking around until you find it. Cliff jumping is not permitted here.

8. Hike to Ribbon Falls in Grand Canyon NP

Distance: 17.57 miles
Elevation: 4521 ft
Type: Out-and-back
Best time to visit: October - May

The Ribbon Falls Bridge has been removed due to damage. Until the bridge is replaced, visitors should stay on the North Kaibab Trail to get to the falls. Check back in here for additional updates. 

Located in Grand Canyon National Park, this secluded waterfall hike is hidden away in a small canyon teeming with lush vegetation. It’s wildly beautiful, but is also a fragile environment. Stay on trail to protect the surrounding terrain and help keep it pristine for years to come! In the past, there was a footbridge people could cross to get to the falls. Since it is no longer there due to damage, just remember that you’ll need to take the alternative route!

9. Hike to Apache Falls

Distance: 0.82 miles
Elevation: 16 ft
Type: Out-and-back
Best time to visit: September-November (rains and snows a normal amount, not quite as hot as in the peak summer months, slower tourism, which may mean more affordable lodging); December-February (cooler temps with the chance of rain or snow fall 2-3x per month– good for viewing the falls in full force)

Be sure to check for trail closures before visiting this area. Part of the Apache Trail remained closed for public safety reasons as a result of extensive roadway damage. As of October 2022, a 1.7-mile section of State Route 88 (Apache Trail) was reopened. Look out for additional information regarding trail re-openings for 2023.

This majestic natural display of free-flowing water is found at the heart of the Salt River Canyon. The sheer size of the falls will leave you mesmerized. And as a shorter hike– you’ll get big rewards for not too much effort! Note that a hiking permit is required to explore this area.

10. Hike to Pacheta Falls

Distance: 2.37 miles
Elevation: 187 ft
Type: Out-and-back
Best time to visit: Early June to mid September

Pacheta Falls is nestled in Arizona’s White Mountains. Please note that while visiting you will be on the White Mountain Apache Reservation. Always respect your surroundings and rules/regulations. A Special Use Permit is required. The route to get to this spot is quite rugged and may be a bit difficult to navigate, but will ultimately reward you with impressive views of the roughly 131-ft falls, towering cliffs, green vegetation, and douglas fir trees.

11. Hike to Water Wheel & Ellison Creek Cascades

Distance: 1.76 miles
Elevation: 272 ft
Type: Out-and-back
Best time to visit: April - September

Check for flash floods or inclement weather before embarking on this adventure.

Explore multiple waterfalls along this stretch of creek. This adventure also features refreshing swimming holes and cliff jumping opportunities. Though an undeniably gorgeous place and a worthwhile hike, it is not advisable to visit during monsoon season since flash floods can be rather common in this area. Be sure to check the forecast before heading out on trail to avoid dangerous conditions. Visit during the week to avoid weekend crowds.

12. Hike to the Romero Pools

Photo: Dofo Salazar

Distance: 5.52 miles
Elevation: 1155 ft
Type: Out-and-back
Best time to visit: September - May (to avoid the hottest days)

Cool off at these frigid pools– an especially delightful treat on a hot Arizona day! The beginning section of this trail is relatively flat, but is followed by a steeper and rockier climb to arrive at the pools. The climb will likely make you break out in a sweat, but will make plunging into the water feel that much more satisfying and well-earned.

13. Hike to Tanque Verde Falls

Distance: 1.93 miles
Elevation: 430 ft
Type: Out-and-back
Best time to visit: Spring and early Summer (more opportunities to see the falls flowing); October, November, December, January, February, March, April (more bearable temps)

Hike to a 80-ft waterfall in Tanque Verde Canyon with the opportunity to see smaller falls and swimming holes while en route! Definitely check the weather forecast before setting out on this adventure since periods of rain can lead to dangerous flash flooding.

14. Hike to Hidden Falls in the Havasupai Reservation

Distance: 1.25 miles
Elevation: 233 ft
Type: Out-and-back
Best time to visit: Early Spring or late Fall (March, April, May, September, October, November)

Hidden Falls is located on the tribal lands of the Havasupai Tribe and will remain closed to tourists for the remainder of the 2022 season as the necessary repairs and enhancements are being made. No new reservations will be available for purchase while tourism is suspended. Check back for updates here.

As its name suggests, Hidden Falls isn’t quite as well known as the more popular waterfalls in Havasupai Reservation. Though not too visible from the trail, if you seek it out, you won’t be disappointed! Cliff jumping enthusiasts will love this hidden gem, but always take precaution and know the risks. Note that a permit is required to visit Havasupai so be sure to plan ahead of time!

15. Explore Grand Falls

Distance: 1.2 miles
Elevation: 246 ft
Type: Out-and-back
Best time to visit: March and April (due to snowmelt from earlier in the year)

Grand Falls is located on Navajo Nation land in the Painted Desert. Check for any changes to visitation regulations/restrictions before heading out to bask in the beauty of this spectacle!

Located 30 miles from Flagstaff, these muddy falls resemble the chocolate waterfall in the iconic Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory movie! You’ll want your camera for this sight! These falls are known for their many tiers and wide span of surging water that flows into the Little Colorado River. The rushing water is mostly dependent on snow melt or monsoon rain. Plan this waterfall hike during March or April to avoid going when it's dried up.

Cover photo: Jeremy Meek