It might be a joke that Arizona boasts no waterfront property — but if you look for them, this rugged red-rock landscape is actually chock full of Arizona waterfalls. Cascading blue water looks even more beautiful against this dynamic backdrop, and many of these hikes involve lengthy journeys and hikes that make the beautiful waters an even sweeter reward — especially on a hot, dry Arizona day.
Top 10 Waterfalls in Arizona
Visiting Waterfalls in Arizona
Havasu Falls
If there’s one waterfall you’ve heard of in Arizona, chances are it’s Havasu Falls. Nestled into the Havasupai Indian Reservation in the northwestern quadrant of the state, this dramatic waterfall isn’t the easiest to get to. It requires a hike of at least 20 miles round trip and 2000 feet of elevation gain. On top of that, because it’s on protected Native lands, reservations must be made ahead of time for all hikers.
No day hiking is allowed; this is an overnight trek only — and even just getting to the trailhead is a bit of an ordeal, given its remote location. That said, it’s all worth it once you arrive and see for yourself the blue-green waters that the Havasupai people took their name from.
Things to do near Havasu Falls
Located approximately four hours’ drive from the South Rim complex of Grand Canyon National Park, Havasu Falls and its surrounding wildernesses are pretty far off the beaten path, meaning there isn’t much to do nearby. However, it is worth the drive!
Beaver Falls
Located along Havasu Creek just a few miles north of Havasu Falls, Beaver Falls is another well-protected and untouched natural landscape in this area to put on your must-see list. Rather than a singular, powerful column of water, like Havasu Falls, Beaver Falls is a gentler but no less breathtaking series of cascades, flowing endlessly over ancient limestone terraces.
Just like with Havasu Falls, you’ll need a permit to take on this once-in-a-lifetime hiking destination, and again, no day hiking is permitted — overnights only. Permits can be obtained at this website, and keep in mind that it’s a worldwide competition to get them; you may have to try for a while!
Things to do near Beaver Falls
Once again, this wild landscape is the main draw to this part of the state — there’s certainly not much in the way of urban development. Still, the landscape and waterfalls are worth the long drive.
Mooney Falls
Okay, okay — we promise that after this waterfall, we’re done fanning out about the Havasupai Reservation waterfalls. But if you’re lucky enough to get permits and you’ve got Havasu Falls and Beaver Falls on your list, Mooney Falls is literally on the way, and well worth seeing. Plunging 100 feet down into the turquoise pool below, Mooney Falls is considered by some to be the most majestic of all the waterfalls in the Grand Canyon, and there are many.
Long story short: you don’t want to miss it!
Things to do near Mooney Falls
You know the drill at this point. Check out the eastern end of the canyon at Grand Canyon National Park and plan for lots of wilderness adventures and few amenties.
Ribbon Falls
Ribbon Falls is another Grand Canyon waterfall, but this time on NPS property rather than Indian Reservation land. It is accessed via N. Kaibab Trail, which runs along Bright Angel Creek on the northern side of the Colorado River.
This is still a very remote waterfall that requires some tough and time-consuming hiking to reach, and is best accessed from the Grand Canyon’s North Rim, which is much less developed and harder to get to. That said, once you arrive, it’s all worth it: a cascade that truly resembles a ribbon of water pouring into a red stone grotto.
Because it requires almost 17 miles of hiking and over 4,500 feet of elevation gain round trip, we do recommend making this hike into an overnight adventure. Besides, why wouldn’t you want to spend some time enjoying what you worked so hard to get to?
Things to do near Ribbon Falls
While the North Rim is significantly less developed, for some people, that’s just the right speed. Spend your time in this area enjoying the great outdoors and soaking up all the beauty the state has to offer.
Fossil Creek Falls
Fossil Creek Falls is relatively small, compared to some of the sweeping Grand Canyon falls we’ve named. Still it is sweet and well worth the visit. This Arizona waterfall is tucked into the vast expanse of wilderness to the southeast of Flagstaff, almost smack in between Coconino National Forest and Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest.
While these falls do still require a hike to get to them, they’re not quite as daunting as the ones we’ve listed so far. The path is a reasonable 2.6 miles round trip, and at less than 250 feet in elevation gain. This means it’s easy enough for a wide variety of visitors, even strong kids. Wading and swimming in the pool below the falls is popular, and a great way to cool off on a scorching Arizona day.
Do be aware that the way to the trailhead might be the most difficult part of the whole adventure. For best results, you want to be driving a high-clearance vehicle, preferably with four-wheel drive.
Things to do near Fossil Creek Falls
Conveniently located within an easy drive of many Arizona cities, from Flagstaff to Sedona to Prescott and Prescott Valley, it’s no wonder that Fossil Creek Falls is such a popular getaway. The smaller nearby towns of Strawberry and Pine have some interesting history to explore, too.
Cibecue Falls
Drive east out of Phoenix and you’ll find yourself deep in the desert wilderness, with plenty of hidden gems waiting for those who know how to find them. One of those hidden gems? Cibecue Falls, which lies along the creek of the same name.
This 30-foot-high cascade pours over a red stone canyon into the water below and is accessible via a reasonable hike of about four round-trip miles and a little more than 600 feet in elevation gain. It’ll get you sweating, but it won’t leave you so worn out you won’t be able to enjoy the destination once you get there, which is likely to be one of the most beautiful sights you’ve ever seen.
Things to do near Cibecue Falls
About two and a half hours east of the greater Phoenix area, this hike is certainly not a quick after-work workout. Still, it is accessible enough to make for a great wilderness weekend getaway from the city. Do be aware this waterfall is on Native American lands, so be respectful when you visit and pack out everything you pack in.
Apache Falls
Another gorgeous waterfall nestled along the Salt River, Apache Falls is a relatively small, gentle waterfall that can be reached by a short hike. It’s about a mile to the falls from the parking area, and only about 100 feet of elevation gain, making this a great fall to consider if you’re traveling with young children or otherwise aren’t accustomed to walking long distances.
What’s more, this part of the Salt River is a popular destination for a variety of reasons. Along with seeing the falls, you can experience white water rafting, photographic canyon viewpoints, and more. You can even string this fall into a longer hike on the way to the aforementioned Cibecue Falls, if you’re looking for a real adventure!
Things to do near Apache Falls
Part of the Fort Apache Reservation just east of Phoenix, Apache Falls is close enough to the big city for you to get your needs met while still feeling far enough afield to make for a great getaway.
The Best Arizona Waterfalls for RVers
Romero Pools
Mount Lemmon stands sentinel along the north edge of Tucson’s skyline, and along with it, there are some incredible outdoor wilderness areas to explore — including Romero Pools. These pools are fed by a beautiful waterfall and offer an excellent chance for visitors to cool off from the hot desert sun. All of this is accessible by a challenging but doable hiking trail of approximately six round-trip miles and a little more than 1,300 feet of elevation gain.
Along with the worthy destination at the end, this trail is also known for its stunning views, beautiful wildflowers, and ample wildlife spotting opportunities.
Why This Waterfall is Perfect for RVers
Because it is located just outside of Tucson, this is an ideal Arizona waterfall destination for RVers. You’ll be able to stay in the comfort of the city while still accessing one of the most beautiful natural areas in the state.
Things to do near Romero Pools
Experienced outdoor adventurers might take on the multi-day Mt. Lemmon Summit Loop, or choose a portion of it to do as a day hike. And, of course, it’s all right outside of the vast landscape of Tucson, which offers so many exciting attractions and to-dos.
Tanque Verde Falls
Another gorgeous hidden gem of a destination right outside of Tucson, Tanque Verde Falls’ is definitely worth a visit. Here, you find there are actually several sets of falls, ranging from 30 to 80 feet above the pools and waters below. These pools are the perfect place for swimming, bathing, or simply cooling off from the hot desert sun.
The trail to the falls is only about a mile or two long and sees relatively little elevation gain, though there are still some ups and downs. The view at the end makes it all worth it!
Why This Waterfall is Perfect for RVers
This waterfall is also located just outside of Tucson. Since this city is is home to come of the best campgrounds in the state, it makes sense for RVers to tie Tucson and the surrounding waterfalls into their travels.
Things to do near Tanque Verde Falls
Along with the waterfalls and their pools, the Tanque Verde area is also home to a beach perfect for soaking up some sun rays. It’s all just a few miles east of Tucson, which offers everything you need for a comfortable getaway.
Seven Falls
One of the most popular hikes outside of Tucson is the one that takes you up through the Sabino Canyon Recreation Area toward Seven Falls. Here you’ll find not just one, but two pools to splash around in.
You’ll be ready for the break once you get there. Although not too intense, the hike to Seven Falls along Bear Canyon does run a little more than four miles one way, pulling slowly but steadily up until you’ve scaled about a thousand vertical feet. Be sure to pack a towel so that once you arrive at your destination, you’ll be able to thoroughly enjoy not just the scenery, but the physical relaxation the cool pools can offer.
And hey, if you don’t want to do the whole hike back, there’s a shuttle that can cover some of the distance for you!
Why This Waterfall is Perfect for RVers
Like the two waterfalls above, this fall is located right outside of Tucson, an ideal city for RVers. In addition to a lot of private campgrounds, the city also plays host to come fanart attic boondocking opportunities, meaning you can stay for free if you wish!
Things to do near Seven Falls
The best part of this beautiful and doable hike is that it’s all less than an hour outside of downtown Tucson, easily accessible to a wide range of locals and visitors alike. Tucson itself is home to all sorts of fine cuisine, museums, and more attractions, not to mention Saguaro National Park on the west side of the city.
Planning an RV Trip to Arizona
Arizona waterfalls work in tandem with the many other amazing natural attractions in the state to make an Arizona RV trip a must-do. To help with your planning, here are the best campgrounds in Arizona as well as the best Arizona state parks. You’ll also want to make sure to see Grand Canyon National Park, Petrified Forest National Park, and Saguaro National Park while you’re there.
