Posted in Arizona Nature, Waterfalls January 16, 2023 by

6 Gorgeous Arizona Waterfalls Hiding In Plain Sight With No Hiking Required

If you think nothing will come up when you Google “waterfalls in Arizona” because you live in an area with so many deserts, you’d be wrong. Waterfalls certainly aren’t the first thing to come to mind when people think about Arizona. But these natural wonders do exist, and not all of them require a strenuous, all-day hike! Here are six of the best waterfalls in Arizona that you can either drive right up to or easily walk to from a parking space. These places are perfect for those with mobility issues who may not be up to a long trek, but still want to enjoy some of the beautiful natural treasures in Arizona. Keep in mind that even though these places are easy to access, you still want to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a first-aid kit when traveling through the state. It’s always better to be prepared!

1. Arizona Falls
Jessie's Drone Adventures/Google Maps
This urban waterfall in Arizona is found right in east Phoenix. It's certainly one unique little spot! Part of an old hydroelectric dam, the area was renovated in 2003. It's now a lovely public walking and sitting area. There are several walking paths here, and since the area is paved, it's perfect for wheelchair and walker users. The 20-foot falls generate enough electricity to power around 150 homes. Urban waterfalls are so unique!
Arizona Falls, 5802 E Indian School Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85018, USA
2. Grand Falls
Michael Wilson/Flickr
Before heading out, check the water levels on the official Discover Navajo Nation website so you are prepared for the best views possible.
Grand Falls, Arizona, Arizona 86035, USA
3. Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix
L Hoffheins/Flickr
The Japanese Friendship Garden is a real hidden gem in Phoenix. It is home to several waterfalls of varying sizes. It's a small spot, but the perfect place to find a quiet experience in the middle of a bustling city. The paths are all paved, so it's very easy to get around. It's such a lovely spot to escape your worries!
The Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix, 1125 N 3rd Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85003, USA
4. Tonto Natural Bridge in Tonto Natural Bridge State Park
Adam Cogan/Alltrails
This one is more like a nice stroll through the woods than a hike. Tonto Natural Bridge is just north of Payson. It's got a seasonal waterfall that can be seen either from accessible viewpoints or via a half mile wooden pathway with stairs. The stairs can get a little slippery at times, so make sure to travel with care, especially if you have mobility issues! This park has the largest natural travertine bridge in the world.
Tonto Natural Bridge Road, Tonto Natural Bridge Rd, Arizona 85544, USA
5. Water Wheel Falls
Water Wheel Campground/Yelp
Located just 10 miles north of Payson, this waterfall is the most challenging to access of all the locations on this list. Overall, the walk is only about a half mile round trip, but the ground is a bit uneven, so take care when walking. You'll head east from the campground to reach the waterfall. Few people realize this is one of the best swimming holes in Arizona! Check it out when the weather is warm.
Water Wheel Falls Hiking Trail, Payson, AZ 85541, USA
6. Workman Creek Falls in Tonto National Forest
Wikimedia Commons
Here's another waterfall that can be seen right from your car. There's a rough dirt road that leads to this 200-foot waterfall, and it's quite the impressive sight. Be careful when visiting, as the area is a bit rough. There are plenty of ruts in the road and it's often closed in winter. The area also has many abandoned mines nearby. You can check the current status of the area on the official USDA website.
Workman Creek Falls, Arizona 85554, USA

Seeing all these beautiful waterfall hikes in Arizona makes us wish there were even more waterfalls here! Interested in more amazing Arizona waterfalls? If the weather’s warm enough, there are plenty of wonderful waterfall swimming holes in Arizona that are the best way possible to clear off in the hot Copper State summers.

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The OIYS Visitor Center

Waterfalls In Arizona

March 02, 2022
Lisa Sammons

What are some more of the best waterfall hikes in Arizona?

Arizona is well known for its lengthy waterfall hikes. If you're into longer hikes with waterfalls, there are plenty to enjoy. One that we love is one in the Native American village of Supai. There are no drivable roads in the village, but it's got a hike that will take you to not one, but three impressive waterfalls. Havasu Falls is the largest and best-known, but the entire trio is gorgeous. If you're hunting a waterfall hike bucket list, we've got one of those too. It's got tons of great falls for you to hit the trails to find.

What are some more waterfalls near me in Arizona?

Whether you're looking for easily accessed waterfalls or trails with waterfalls in Arizona, there are plenty for you to enjoy here. Here are a dozen waterfalls in Arizona that are absolutely beautiful but are a little bit hidden and more difficult to find than some of the ones on the list above. If you want to take a dip in some waterfalls in Arizona, check out these seven. They're perfect for escaping the heat on a hot day, which we certainly get plenty of.

What are some of the best parks in Arizona?

We've got three national parks in Arizona, plus another 21 national monuments and national historic sites. And there are 31 state parks in Arizona, each of which has incredible scenery and history behind it. Of course, when it comes to famous parks in Arizona, it doesn't get much more famous than the Grand Canyon National Park. The Grand Canyon is so beautiful that it's been named one of the 20 most beautiful national parks in the country.