7 Best Waterfall Trails For Spring in Arizona

This guide is born from countless hours of research, trail trekking, and more than a few muddy boots. I’ve personally navigated some of these trails, asking locals for tips, checking weather patterns, and even a few times, finding myself asking, “Is that really the trail?” as I scrambled over rocks, all to bring you the most accurate and helpful information.

The 7 Best Waterfall Trails for Spring in Arizona

Here are my top picks for chasing waterfalls this spring, complete with key details to help you plan your adventure:

Havasu Falls (Havasupai Indian Reservation)

• Why it’s amazing: The iconic turquoise waters against the red rock canyon are truly breathtaking. This isn’t just one waterfall; it’s a series including Havasu, Mooney, and Beaver Falls, each offering a unique spectacle.
• Difficulty: This is a challenging 10-mile (one-way) hike into the canyon. I vividly remember looking down at Mooney Falls, and my stomach did a little flip. But taking it slow, one step and one chain at a time, made it an incredible, albeit slightly terrifying, accomplishment.
• Permits & Reservations: This is tribal land, and you cannot visit without a prior reservation through the official Havasupai Tribe Tourism Office. Day hiking is strictly prohibited.
• Best Time to Visit: April, May, mid-to-late September, and October. March is also an option but can be too cold for swimming.
• Nearest Town for Supplies: Peach Springs, about 66 miles from Hualapai Hilltop (the trailhead). No services at the hilltop.
• Camping: Required with your permit. The campground is well-maintained but primitive.
• Restrooms/Water: Primitive restrooms at the campground. Bring plenty of your own water, though some sources might be available in Supai Village.
• Fees: Included in your costly permit.

Read More: 5 Waterfalls of Havasupai That You Should Never Miss

Fossil Creek Waterfall (Coconino National Forest)

• Why it’s amazing: Stunning travertine dams create vibrant turquoise pools and a refreshing 25-foot waterfall. It’s an incredibly unique ecosystem.
• Difficulty: The distance and elevation gain vary depending on the specific trailhead (Waterfall Trail or Fossil Springs Trail).
• Permits & Reservations: Required for day-use from April 1st to October 1st. These are highly sought after and released online months in advance. I learned this the hard way on a previous attempt! I thought I could just show up, and was politely turned away by a ranger. Don’t make my mistake – secure your permit well in advance.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring offers comfortable temperatures for hiking and enjoying the water.
• Nearest Town for Supplies: Camp Verde or Strawberry.
• Camping: Limited designated camping available with a permit. Dispersed camping is often restricted.
• Restrooms/Water: Primitive restrooms at trailheads. No potable water along the trail.
• Fees: Permit fee (usually $6) and Tonto National Forest pass ($8 for day pass).

Grand Falls (Little Colorado River, Navajo Nation)

• Why it’s amazing: Taller than Niagara Falls when flowing, the muddy, sediment-rich water gives it a unique “chocolate” appearance.
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate. The challenge often lies in finding it, as signage can be minimal.
• Permits & Reservations: Located on Navajo Nation land; typically no formal permits are required for day use, but respectful visitation is crucial. I always recommend checking with the Navajo Nation Tourism Department for any updated access information.
• Best Time to Visit: Best after significant snowmelt or heavy rains, usually early spring. It can be completely dry otherwise.
• Nearest Town for Supplies: Flagstaff (about 30 miles southwest).
• Camping: Dispersed camping may be possible in designated areas; verify regulations.
• Restrooms/Water: No facilities. Pack everything in and out.
• Fees: None typically, but conditions can change.

Tanque Verde Falls (Coronado National Forest)

• Why it’s amazing: A series of waterfalls and pools in the rugged Rincon Mountains, offering a refreshing escape from the desert heat.
• Difficulty: Moderate to Very Hard. The 80-foot upper falls require a challenging descent. The initial trail to the lower falls is more moderate.
• Permits & Reservations: No permits required.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring for cooler hiking temperatures and better water flow.
• Nearest Town for Supplies: Tucson.
• Camping: Dispersed camping may be allowed in certain areas of Coronado National Forest; check regulations.
• Restrooms/Water: No facilities.
• Fees: Coronado National Forest has an $8 entrance fee for vehicles.

Cibecue Falls (Fort Apache Indian Reservation)

• Why it’s amazing: A beautiful waterfall flowing over smooth rocks, reached by a creek-crossing hike through a scenic canyon.
• Difficulty: Moderate-easy. The 3-mile trail involves multiple creek crossings, so expect to get your feet wet!
• Permits & Reservations: A permit from the White Mountain Apache Tribe is required for access. Secure this in advance.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring offers good water levels and pleasant hiking.
• Nearest Town for Supplies: Globe or San Carlos.
• Camping: Not typically permitted at the falls; check tribal land regulations for nearby options.
• Restrooms/Water: No facilities.
• Fees: Tribal permit fee.

White Tank Waterfall Trail (White Tank Mountain Regional Park)

• Why it’s amazing: An easy, paved trail leading to seasonal falls and ancient petroglyphs. Great for a quick escape.
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate (0.9 miles one-way, 1.8 miles round trip). The “moderate” rating often comes from the rocky terrain near the falls.
• Permits & Reservations: No permits required.
• Best Time to Visit: After significant rainfall in winter or early spring. This waterfall is highly seasonal and can be dry. I’ve been there when it was a mere trickle, which was a bit disappointing, so checking recent rain patterns is key for this one.
• Nearest Town for Supplies: Waddell/Phoenix metro area.
• Camping: Camping available within White Tank Mountain Regional Park.
• Restrooms/Water: Restrooms and water available at the park’s main facilities.
• Fees: $7.00 per vehicle park entrance fee (or Maricopa Parks Pass).

Seven Falls (Sabino Canyon Recreation Area)

• Why it’s amazing: A scenic hike with multiple creek crossings leading to seven tiered waterfalls and refreshing pools.
• Difficulty: Moderate to Hard (8.4 miles round trip with multiple creek crossings). The distance and crossings can be challenging.
• Permits & Reservations: No permits required, but shuttle tickets are often recommended/required to access the trailhead deeper in the canyon.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring for comfortable hiking and better water flow.
• Nearest Town for Supplies: Tucson.
• Camping: No camping within the recreation area.
• Restrooms/Water: Restrooms and water at the visitor center. No water on the trail.
• Fees: $8 per vehicle for a daily pass. Shuttle fees apply if you opt to ride.

Conclusion

Arizona’s spring waterfalls offer a truly unique and refreshing experience. By planning ahead, being prepared, and respecting these beautiful natural spaces, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable adventure.

Read More: 5 Waterfalls of Havasupai That You Should Never Miss

Read More: Top 12 Family-Friendly Outdoor Adventures in Arizona