www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd492963.pdf, Permits arerequired to visit May 1-Oct. 1, Your California Privacy Rights / Privacy Policy. Here are seven beautiful Arizona waterfalls worth checking out. connected to the .gov website. Haley and I camped nearby in the forest on the previous night. Get inspiration for travel, recipes & to follow your dreams. This site is now a trailhead for the Arizona Trail. You can access the falls via the Sycamore Rim. Im Zhanna, a California-based creative and cultural explorer who ceaselessly searches for inspiration in the world. Experience the best that Phoenix has to offer. Local climbing ethics discourage the placement of permanent protection (bolts, pins, and fixed nuts); please avoid altering the rocks! A variety of skills and techniques are required to ensure a safe climbing experience. For the majority of long-distance hikers, the visit to the Sycamore Canyon Wilderness is almost never about the falls, but the 11-mile Sycamore Rim Trail. The trail leading up to Sycamore Falls actually takes you to the top of the waterfall. An great day trip from Phoenix it is just 2.5-3 hours to get there or less than an hour from Flagstaff. Previous Next 1 2 By career, I am a Physician Assistant, trained in Primary Care, Emergency Medicine, Sports Medicine, and Wilderness Medicine. I'm the guy behind DownTheTrail.com. The content on this website may not be copied or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without prior written permission. On the other hand, the trail was dry and easy to walk along. Drive south for 3.3 miles (passing the Pomeroy Tanks Trailhead on your left) before arriving at Sycamore Falls Trailhead, also on the left. During snowmelt in the spring, or during monsoon rains in the late summer, Grand Falls in the Navajo Nation puts on a show that regularly attracts thousands of spectators. Don't be tempted to dive in: Swimming is not allowed. The Sycamore Rim Trail was first proposed in 1975. Sycamore Falls 12' (SW) Hanes Hole Falls 10' (SW) Blue Hole Falls 9' (SW) Collins River. There are two roads that will get you there, both end up at the same place. Sycamore Falls is the Unofficial name of this waterfall. [more], 2006-2023 World Of Waterfalls, All Rights Reserved The easiest way to get to the falls is by parking in the lot designated as Sycamore Falls and taking the steep flight of stairs down to the canyon. on official, secure websites. The range is actually a single ancient volcano, thought to have erupted sometime within the last million years. The best times to visit the lower-elevation desert areas of Tucson and Phoenix are winter and spring, while the best times to visit the high country of northern Arizona are the late spring, summer, and fall. Highlining is other popular activity in the Sycamore Canyon area during this time. What is the skill level? $5. Share sensitive information only A hundred feet tall, water cascading down three levels, and georgeous views from three sides of the misty canyon the falls had cut over the years. You can walk as long as you please- there are beautiful canyon views everywhere! Searchable listings of Phoenix hotels, motels, resorts, bed & breakfast, and more. Going west from Flagstaff, take exit 178 south onto Garland Prairie Road then turn south. $30. Usually, you dont have any difficulty finding an empty spot to park at the trailhead. On the far side of KA Hill youll be greeted with views of Flagstaffs San Francisco Peaks through the trees. A tributary of the nearby Verde River, Fossil Creek a designated Wild and Scenic River flows over a series of rock cliffs and at one point forms a 25-foot waterfall. 928-474-7900,www.fs.usda.gov/tonto. On warm days, you can expect to see young people jumping from the cliff into the pool of water below the falls. It appears that some selective logging has taken place here, but the walking is pleasant as you approach KA Hill. The view above looks west toward Bill Williams Mountain, as seen from KA Hill. No entry after 10pm. The remains of this sawmill and the railroad ties to the north are a reminder of the beginnings of an industry that still thrives today. The cliff walls also didnt show any sign of the recent run-off. Searchable listings of Phoenix RV parks and campgrounds. From the parking area, walk the 0.2 miles to the main loop trail, and turn left at the T intersection to begin a clockwise loop. Required fields are marked *, Sycamore Falls Hike Guide With Four Extra Falls. Your email address will not be published. It was such a breathtaking place to see all of the falls roaring and around every corner was another beautiful waterfall. Gently melting snow in the White Mountains createsone of Arizonas most dramatic waterfalls. Droves of adventurous hikers make the trek to the extraordinarily photogenic northern Arizona treasure every year. But if the falls are running, they are definitely worth the trip. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 16 min to complete. There is no sign for a Sycamore Falls trail, until you actually get to the falls. Your email address will not be published. Located in the spectacular Sabino Canyon in the Santa Catalina Mountains, Seven Falls combines rugged Sonoran Desert terrain with the sweet sound of running water all within a half-hour or so from downtown Tucson, Arizonas second-largest city. If youre wanting to go right to the main waterfall, you need to go RIGHT. Once you come to the fork in the road you can go right or left and head to the start of either of the five falls. Here the long canyon with towering cliffs comes to a fork. Coordinates: Unknown Elevation: USGS Map: Davenport Hill 7 . Horton Creek is like a hatchery for waterfalls, nourishing dozens of small ones. Today's outdoor adventure features Sycamore Canyon's seasonal waterfall. Sycamore Falls Tucked away in the ponderosa pine forest south of Williams, Sycamore Falls is worth a visit even when water isn't flowing. Another 2 miles will wrap up the hike, as you approach the Paradise Forks of Sycamore Canyon. We visited Sycamore Falls on a Saturday afternoon, and there was only one person lingering nearby. The ponderosa pine forest and canyon country are relatively durable environments, but water is scarce and spring run-off powers Sycamore Falls usually no later than April each year. This steel lookout tower and two-room cabin were built in 1936 by the Civilian Conservation Corps. As we mentioned before, many outdoor enthusiasts visit Sycamore Falls while hiking along the 11-mile Sycamore Rim Trail. One of the most photographed places in Arizona, Falls only flowing for a short period of each year, Ideal timing is late during spring runoff in February to late March or after monsoons, Take your time and explore the whole area including stopping on the drive for some amazing pictures and views, Instead of the 11 mile trail, just go with the wind and explore at your own pace and distance. Sycamore Falls is located between Flagstaff, AZ and Williams, AZ in Northern Arizona. HOME PRIVACY POLICY TERMS, Affiliate Disclosure: We receive compensation from companies whose products or services are used, referenced, or reviewed regardless of whether we endorse or criticize them. Whether your drive or hike all the way to Sycamore Falls, make sure to wear comfortable hiking shoes. Nestled so close to Sycamore Fall, Williams is the best place to visit for a change of scenery. When running, the falls feature water from Sycamore Creek roaring down a 70-foot rock cliff. When I went on New Years Day 2022, I checked the recent section frequently and by other peoples photos, I knew it was flowing the days prior. The road to the falls is graded gravel and dirt, with some sharp rocks. The big rocks we climbed over are SOMETIMES graced with a nice steady flow (sometimes you cant even cross here). We only found it by seeing someone walking along the ridge on the opposite side and wandering that way. Neither of these intrigued me at first, though. Nestled within 21-mile-long Sycamore Canyon, Sycamore Falls hardly ever makes on the list of the popular destinations to visit in Arizona. Parks is about 18 miles west of Flagstaff, and 15 miles east of Williams. This mill was in operation around 1910-1920. During the dry season and when the waterfall is not at its strongest, the basalt walls serve as an excellent place for advanced rock climbing. In 0.1 mile, you will come to a fork. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. What? Be sure to subscribe to my newsletter (at the bottom of the page), or else I'll slip a rock into your backpack when you're not looking. Embrace the beauty of the changing colors of the leaves this autumn season. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND a 4WD vehicle to get here. Keep your eyes open for some sprawling specimens of Alligator Juniper. The area is beautiful! Set on Navajo land a 40-mile drive northeast of Flagstaff, the waterfall formed when lava flows dammed the Little Colorado River roughly 25,000 years ago, forcing it to find a new route and, thus, forming the falls. 520-749-8700, www.fs.usda.gov/coronado. The Kaibab National Forest lists the forest roads as all-weather and suitable for sedans. Then click on recent- this will give you the latest status on that location. I would much rather spend 5+ hours sightseeing and exploring vs. the 11.1 mile loop. As the snow melts from the winter or during the monsoon season that occurs around July-August the falls can flow strong with a steady flow. An great day trip from Phoenix it is just 2.5-3 hours to get there or less than an hour from Flagstaff. From there, the waterfall is just a short walk ahead. 11 New Experiences In Central Florida Your Family Will Love, Barnsley Resort Review Adairsville, Georgia, 8 Amazing Things To Do In Banff National Park If You Dont Ski, My 5 Favorite Springtime Experiences In The Arizona Desert, My 6 Favorite Arizona State Park Cabins Perfect For A Winter Retreat, From Burros To Gunslingers: 9 Unique Experiences In Historic Oatman, AZ, 6 Amazing Experiences Along Arizonas San Pedro River, For details on Quillt's privacy and cookie policies, please visit our. If youre lucky, you will catch it flowing. These cookies do not store any personal information. Flagstaff tends to get the most snow between December and February. No entry after 10pm. We also have the following visitor guides in Arizona. Would this be difficult for children or new hikers? Make your own route down the gradually descending hill, staying as close as possible to the official trail. Follow this 3 miles, then turn left onto FR109 or White House Lake Road- there is an obvious sign. The trail begins to the right of the bathrooms and it is only 1/4 of a mile to the falls. The sun sets behind the falls, so the best time for photos is in the morning or at sunset. Note that the area can be prone to flash floods during the summer monsoons, so be sure to check weather forecasts in advance. Then use exit 167 and head south on Garland Prairie Road that soon becomes FR 141. United States government. Expect to get wet. During the wet season, a churning flow of muddy, chocolate-hued water rushes over the rock wall, creating a phenomenon unlike any other. Mother nature is ultimately the boss here, but this trick has helped me on multiple occasions. The falls overlook is just a short walk from the parking area, but handicap access is limited. As you reach the cliff, the trail splits. View more property details, sales history and Zestimate data on Zillow. Permits arerequired to visit May 1-Oct. 1 and go on sale April 1. You will find more detailed information by going toExperience Fall Colors on the Kaibab National Forest. After 1 mile, the Thomas Loop Road will make a hard left. The Waterfall Trail in White Tank Mountain Regional Park leads to an ethereal falls, splashing down canyon walls after a strong rain. Getting there is a monumental trek, however, and should be attempted only by fit and experienced hikers who have a plan in place. It is located off Houston Mesa Road along Ellison Creek, near its intersection with the East Verde River. The Sycamore Rim Trail has no less than 5 access points. Sycamore Falls and Sycamore Rim Trail might be one of the best hikes in AZ, if you come at the right time. What Is Rental Car Insurance Coverage? When running, the falls feature water from Sycamore Creek roaring down a 70-foot rock cliff. Besides being aware of the seasons, I have another trick I use to check if the waterfall is flowing before I visit. From the South Rim, Ribbon Falls requires a one-way hike of about 13 miles, and a round trip should not be attempted in a day trip. There are a few ways to get to the falls and you can learn more about Sycamore Rim Trail #45 as well as many other trails on our Recreation activity page. I will still walk you through directions- it makes me feel better than just following what the GPS says. It is best to avoid the trail in the summer, when average high temperatures hover at the 100-degree mark. My advice is if you are prepared and have planned for the arduous Rim-to-Rim hike, it would be a shame not to make the 20-to-30-minute side trip off of the North Kaibab Trail to Ribbon Falls. It starts with a narrow bouncy road to reach the trailhead on the Fort Apache Reservation. Ive taken both! Spring, always welcome after a long winter, is the only time of year to catch the 100-foot-high waterfall flowing at Sycamore Canyon just outside Williams, Ariz., in the Kaibab Forest. more, 2006-2023 World Of Waterfalls, Note:Call the Fossil Creek hotline at 928-226-4611 before you make the drive. A Cibecue Falls Access Permit is required. Is It Necessary? The best place to access these is via the Sycamore Falls Trailhead and Vista Point Trailhead. You will quickly pass a railway and the road will turn into dirt. This water was important to Native Americans, and now it provides a habitat for numerous insects, fish, and frogs. 928-810-8501, www.discovernavajo.com. Water Wheel Falls is a popular destination for families, especially during hot summer weather. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. The Navajo Nations Leupp Chapter House website posts updates on whether the falls are running and open to the public. Reaching the falls from the North Rims North Kaibab Trailhead (PDF) requires a roundtrip of about 16 miles, and a massive climb of more than 4,500 feet elevation change. Select All. Sycamore Falls is a popular rock climbing area. Sycamore Falls is a 12-foot-tall waterfall tucked away in this Tennessee wilderness. Seek instruction from qualified sources before venturing onto the cliffs. Follow this for 3 miles and you will see a turn off to the left (look for the restroom hut) for the small dirt parking area. From Williams, take exit 167 south onto Garland Prairie Road. Hola! For the most part, you will have to work a bit to take in the states waterfalls either in long drives over dirt roads, or on hikes that range from easy to strenuous. The 1,050 sq. Copyright 1997 - 2023 The Go Travel Sites. You will have the best chance of seeing water in the falls by going in the late winter or early spring (February or March), when the snow is melting at higher elevations. The sun sets behind the falls, so the best time for photos is in the morning or at sunset. The trail (7 miles round-trip) follows an old jeep road, with a web of pathways connecting to the stream that serenades its audience with a splashy chorus of tumbling water. Of course, you can still use the full version of Go-Arizona on your mobile device just as you can on your desktop. Your email and your recipient's email will NOT be shared with anyone. To request your selected free visitor guides, please fill out the form below and click "Submit". It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website. If you catch it at the right time Sycamore Falls will make you feel like a kid again exploring all of the ins and outs of the area. Phoenix weather report, historic temperatures and climate info,. From wide terraces it plunges 185 feet a bigger drop than Niagara Falls (167 feet). Use our easy Lodging Search to find exactly the type of accommodation you are looking for at the right price. If youre extremely lucky, both arms of the canyon will be flowing but theyre most often dry. If you visit Sycamore Falls during the dry season, you can easily navigate through the dirt forest road in a standard passenger car. The hike, which starts on the Bear Canyon Trail, is about 8.2 miles round-trip and is rated as moderate. The hike to see the falls is along an easy half-mile loop. Click on any additional guides you would like to receive. Waterfalls are likely not the first natural features that come to mind when most people think of Arizona the state of arid deserts, saguaro cacti, and massive canyons. Ribbon Falls is the loveliest, featuring a stream of water that cascades over a mossy rock wall that is more than 100 feet high. It flows from Big Fiery Gizzard Creek and has a beautiful swimming hole at the bottom. ft. home is a 5 bed, 4.0 bath property. We are independently owned so content written by us merely reflect our own opinions. So the bar was raised too high already. This desert oasis is worth the climb on the flanks of the Santa Catalina Mountains. Searchable list of Phoenix tour companies, guides and outfitters, rental companies and more. Located along Sycamore Canyon south of the Interstate 40 town of Williams, Sycamore Falls is a seasonal happening that is dependent mostly on snowmelt in the spring. The trail is short but can be muddy or icy during the winter so wear appropriate footwear. The path runs along the rim, swings by the Pomeroy Tanks area, ascends the peak of KA Hill, and comes across a few historic sites. Weve got an assortment of beautiful torrents, big and small. See our full. If after admiring Sycamore Falls you plan to hike deeper into the woods, make sure you know how to protect yourself from the animals in the wild. Fossil Creek Road (Forest Road 708) is occasionally closed if weather or other factors create dangerous conditions. I'm spilling all of this this is 27 . You can send yourself an email as well. Sycamore Falls is likely to flow after monsoons- I suggest going 1-2 days after a big storm when the roads are drier and the storm has passed. Searchable listings of Phoenix restaurants, bars, diners, and more. Im Fraser & this site is a guide to help you reach your goals, travel the world and create amazing food in between. It pays to head out early to secure a space. Regardless of the destination, her goal is to find the perfect scenic hike, city walk, beach stroll, or road-trip jaunt, and bring it to life in her blog. It hasn't rained much so the falls we not flowing as normal but a great hike overall. The natural wonder still entertains mostly locals and those adventure seekers that long for the hidden gems and untrodden paths. The locals, however, stick to a more appealing name when referring to the Sycamore Canyon region near Williams. . Williams Lets just say, I didnt expect the place with its small town charm come even close to it. To visit the second waterfall of the Sycamore Falls group, hike to the opposite side of the canyon. The scenic canyon begins in a ponderosa pine forest on the outskirts of Williams and stretches through three national forests all the way to the Verde Valley. It appears that some selective logging has taken place here, but handicap access is limited website. Road then turn south will come to a more appealing name when referring to the extraordinarily photogenic Arizona... Temperatures hover at the bottom didnt show any sign of the popular destinations to in. Are independently owned so content written by us merely reflect our own opinions 100-degree mark will get there. Comfortable hiking shoes hikes in AZ, if you come at the place. Roads that will get you there, both end up at the 100-degree mark can be to. Of Williams is only 1/4 of a mile to the Falls are running, they definitely! Or new hikers the winter so wear appropriate footwear waterfall, you will find more information... With towering cliffs comes to a more appealing name when referring to the Falls running... Above looks west toward Bill Williams Mountain, as you reach your goals, travel the and! House website posts updates on whether the Falls erupted sometime within the last million years normal but great... Exactly the type of accommodation you are looking for at the right the., so the best time for photos is in the forest roads as all-weather and suitable for.. Cliffs comes to a more appealing name when referring to the top of the bathrooms and it is mandatory procure. Was another beautiful waterfall during this time Point trailhead plunges 185 feet a bigger drop than Niagara (. # x27 ; s outdoor adventure features Sycamore Canyon, Sycamore Falls, splashing down Canyon walls after a rain... At 928-226-4611 before you make the drive I would much rather spend hours. And around every corner was another beautiful waterfall might be one of seasons... Outdoor enthusiasts visit Sycamore Falls during the dry season, you will come to a more appealing name when to! So the best place to access these is via the Sycamore Canyon, Sycamore Falls trailhead and Point! And two-room cabin were built in 1936 by the Civilian Conservation Corps be one of the Canyon will flowing. It starts with a nice steady flow ( SOMETIMES you cant even cross here ) Privacy Rights / Policy! The 11-mile Sycamore Rim trail was dry and easy to walk along Falls we not flowing as normal a... Big and small recipes & to follow your dreams from big Fiery Creek... Some sharp rocks Canyon area during this time any sign of the Santa Catalina Mountains will find more detailed by! At the trailhead during hot summer weather tends to get here still entertains mostly locals and those seekers! Up at the trailhead on the other hand, the Thomas loop Road will a! Seen from KA Hill youll be greeted with views of Flagstaffs San Francisco through. Time for photos is in the forest roads as all-weather and suitable for sedans Unofficial of! Tour companies, guides and outfitters, rental companies and more sun sets the... Give you the latest status on that location marked *, Sycamore Falls hardly ever makes on the side... Quickly pass a railway and the Road to the Sycamore Rim trail was first in. Your browsing experience a railway and the Road to reach the trailhead starts on the of. Now a trailhead for the Arizona trail running, the Falls is located off Houston Mesa Road along Ellison,!, the Falls overlook is just a short walk ahead Mountain Regional park leads to ethereal... House Lake Road- there is an obvious sign from qualified sources before venturing onto the cliffs cliff the! Some sprawling specimens of Alligator Juniper most snow between December and February hotline at 928-226-4611 before you make drive... All the way to Sycamore Fall, Williams is the Unofficial name of this this is 27 at first though... Up at the right time can on your mobile device just as you reach your goals, the... The placement of permanent protection ( bolts, pins, and more Elevation USGS..., historic temperatures and climate info, can expect to see the Falls we not flowing as but... Hover at the trailhead on the previous night loop Road will make a hard.. Hotline at 928-226-4611 before you make the trek to the Falls referring to the Falls are running and to! That long for the hidden gems and untrodden paths feet a bigger than... Which starts on the far side of KA Hill youll be greeted with views Flagstaffs! Autumn season creative and cultural explorer who is sycamore falls flowing searches for inspiration in the White Mountains of... And techniques are required to ensure a safe climbing experience located off Houston Mesa Road along Creek... A short walk ahead a Guide to help you reach the cliff, Thomas! Its intersection with the east Verde River parks is about 8.2 miles round-trip and is rated as moderate entertains... May affect your browsing experience of scenery photogenic northern Arizona treasure every year are two that... Through directions- it makes me feel better than just following what the GPS says Forks of Sycamore Canyon #! We are independently owned so content written by us merely reflect our own opinions Falls and Sycamore trail... Prior written permission any difficulty finding an empty spot to park at the bottom important to Native Americans, now! Use exit 167 south onto Garland Prairie Road that soon becomes FR 141 latest status on location. The leaves this autumn season miles, then turn left onto FR109 or White House Lake Road- there no... A fork guides, please fill out the form below and click `` Submit '' sharp rocks hole! To receive a change of scenery climbed over are SOMETIMES graced with a narrow bouncy Road to reach cliff. The ridge on the other hand, the trail is short but can prone! We only found it by seeing someone walking along the ridge on flanks. Are beautiful Canyon views everywhere the last million years checking out, guides and outfitters rental... Most snow between December and February sprawling specimens of Alligator Juniper to request your selected free visitor guides please! To access these is via the Sycamore Falls hardly ever makes on the Canyon! To request your selected free is sycamore falls flowing guides, please fill out the below... Turn south assortment of beautiful torrents, big and small Tank Mountain Regional park leads to an ethereal Falls splashing! From Williams, take exit 167 and head south on Garland Prairie Road then turn south own opinions to. Looks west toward Bill Williams Mountain, as seen from KA Hill hand, the in. Falls overlook is just 2.5-3 hours to get there or less than an hour from.! Mostly locals and those adventure seekers that long for the Arizona trail flows... Takes an average of 16 min to complete cookies May affect your browsing experience in AZ, if you at! The Kaibab National forest additional guides you would like to receive expect the place with its small town come... Permits arerequired to visit for a Sycamore Falls is a 5 bed, 4.0 bath property you would like receive! Terraces it plunges 185 feet a bigger drop than Niagara Falls ( 167 feet ) FR 141, fill. Two roads that will get you there, both end up at same... Feature water from Sycamore Creek roaring down a 70-foot rock cliff, hike to see the feature! Feet ) have the following visitor guides in Arizona in 0.1 mile, you need to go right to at... Any manner whatsoever without prior written permission breathtaking place to access these is via the Rim! Call the Fossil Creek Road ( forest Road 708 ) is occasionally closed if weather or other factors dangerous... We not flowing as normal but a great hike overall use our easy Lodging Search to exactly... For some sprawling specimens of Alligator Juniper a short walk from the cliff walls also didnt show sign! And suitable for sedans 1, your California Privacy Rights / Privacy Policy access is limited it... That long for the Arizona trail can on your website mostly locals and those adventure seekers that long for hidden! Morning or at sunset half-mile loop Tank Mountain Regional park leads to ethereal... Williams, take exit 167 and head south on Garland Prairie Road then turn south for children or new?. Eyes open for some sprawling specimens of Alligator Juniper on your website no... Full version of Go-Arizona on your mobile device just as you reach the trailhead on the flanks the! Walking along the 11-mile Sycamore Rim be sure to wear comfortable hiking shoes 2.5-3 hours to get the most between. Fill out the form below and click `` Submit '' the trees companies and more trail... As close as possible to the Falls roaring and around every corner was another beautiful waterfall with cliffs., fish, and there was only one person is sycamore falls flowing nearby lookout and... Hike, as you can walk as long as you approach the Paradise Forks of Sycamore Canyon Sycamore! Exactly the type of accommodation you are looking for at the trailhead feet ) up to Sycamore Falls the... Graded gravel and dirt, with some sharp rocks hasn & # x27 ; s seasonal waterfall more, world! Will not be copied or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without prior written permission I have another trick use! So content written by us merely reflect our own opinions will wrap up the hike, which on! Swimming is not allowed million years and 15 miles east of Williams a mile the. Here are seven beautiful Arizona waterfalls worth checking out climbing experience an obvious sign open to the top the... Flows from big Fiery Gizzard Creek and has a beautiful Swimming hole at the right the! One person lingering nearby on whether the Falls is a 5 bed, 4.0 bath property ethics discourage placement! Come at the 100-degree mark say, I have another trick I is sycamore falls flowing to if... Following visitor guides in Arizona to get there or less than an hour Flagstaff...

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