Best Swimming Waterfalls to Visit in Arizona
When the summer sun is beating down and you need an escape from the Chandler heat, a standard backyard pool doesn't always cut it. Fortunately, the Grand Canyon State is hiding a secret: incredible, oasis-like waterfalls where you can actually take a refreshing plunge.
Whether you are packing up the RV for an extended road trip or just looking for a weekend day hike, these six Arizona waterfalls offer the ultimate natural cooldown.
1. Havasu Falls
Arguably the most famous waterfall in Arizona, Havasu Falls drops 100 feet into a stunning, bright turquoise pool. Located within the Grand Canyon on Havasupai tribal lands, this is not a casual day trip.
- Location: Havasupai Reservation (Grand Canyon)
- Hike Difficulty: Strenuous (10 miles each way)
- Permit Required: Yes (Minimum three-night booking at the lodge or campground)
Pro Tip: Currents at the base of the falls can be strong, so make sure everyone in your group who wants to swim is a confident swimmer.
2. Fossil Creek Waterfall
If you are looking for crystal clear, mineral-rich blue water without the 10-mile trek, Fossil Creek in the Coconino National Forest is an incredible option. The waterfall itself is about 25 feet tall, pouring into a gorgeous swimming hole.
- Location: Coconino National Forest
- Hike Difficulty: Easy to Moderate (Depending on the trailhead)
- Permit Required: Yes (Parking permit required between April 1 and October 1)
3. Water Wheel Falls
Tucked into the Tonto National Forest just a quick drive north of Payson, Water Wheel Falls is a fantastic family-friendly pick. The trail guides you past a scenic run of cascades and swimming holes that are relatively easy for most hikers to manage.
- Location: 10 miles north of Payson
- Hike Difficulty: Easy (About 1.5 miles round trip)
- Permit Required: No (But an $8 day pass must be purchased along the road)
4. Mooney Falls
For the thrill-seekers, Mooney Falls is a breathtaking 200-foot waterfall located further downstream from Havasu Falls. Earning your swim here requires a nerve-wracking, cliffside ladder descent to reach the beautiful, wide pool at the bottom.
- Location: Havasupai Reservation
- Hike Difficulty: Strenuous/Technical (Requires navigating steep chains and ladders)
- Permit Required: Yes (Included with your Havasupai reservation)
5. Seven Falls
Located within Tucson city limits in the beautiful Sabino Canyon, this trail weaves hikers through desert washes before arriving at a series of tiered waterfalls. When the water levels are high, especially after the rainy season, the falls cascade into clear, welcoming swimming pools.
- Location: Santa Catalina Mountains, Tucson
- Hike Difficulty: Moderate
- Permit Required: No (Standard recreation fee for Sabino Canyon)
6. Slide Rock
If you want to enjoy the water at a slightly gentler pace, Slide Rock State Park is a classic Arizona staple. While the falls here are less dramatic and towering than others on this list, the smooth red rocks create a cool, refreshing natural water slide right outside of Sedona.
- Location: Slide Rock State Park, Sedona
- Hike Difficulty: Very Easy (Short walk from the parking area)
- Permit Required: No (State Park entrance fee required)
Safety Reminder: Always pack plenty of drinking water, wear appropriate footwear for slick rocks, and remember to pack out all of your trash so these pristine areas stay beautiful for everyone. Swim safely, and enjoy the adventure!