6 Gorgeous Arizona Waterfalls Hiding In Plain Sight With No Hiking Required
If you think nothing will come up when you Google “waterfalls near me 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: 5802 E Indian School Rd, Phoenix, AZ, 85018
Arizona Falls, 5802 E Indian School Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85018, USA
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!
2. Grand Falls: Indian Route 6910, AZ (near Leupp)
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!
4. Tonto Natural Bridge in Tonto Natural Bridge State Park: Nf-583A, Pine, AZ, 85544
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! The park has the largest natural travertine bridge in the world.
5. Water Wheel Falls: Payson, AZ, 85541
Water Wheel Falls Hiking Trail, Payson, AZ 85541, USA
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. There's even a bit of shallow swimming once you reach your destination.
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 USDA website.
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.
Address: Grand Falls, Arizona, Arizona 86035, USA
Address: The Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix, 1125 N 3rd Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85003, USA
Address: Water Wheel Falls Hiking Trail, Payson, AZ 85541, USA
Address: Workman Creek Falls, Arizona 85554, USA
Address: Arizona Falls, 5802 E Indian School Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85018, USA
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.
Monica is a Diné (Navajo) freelance writer and photographer based in the Southwest. Born in Gallup and raised in Phoenix, she is Tódich'ii'nii (Bitter Water People) and Tsi'naajinii (Black Streak Wood People). Monica is a staff writer for Only In Your State, photo editor for The Mesa Legend, and previously a staff writer for The Navajo Post. You can reach her at monica.d.spencer@gmail.com.
