At 185 feet high, Grand Falls exceeds Niagara Falls 167-foot height. Sycamore Falls is located between Flagstaff, AZ and Williams, AZ in Northern Arizona. Nestled within 21-mile-long Sycamore Canyon, Sycamore Falls hardly ever makes on the list of the popular destinations to visit in Arizona. Required fields are marked *. I promised myself from now on, I wont live more than 15 minutes from a trail. Where the trail forks, take the left branch to the base of the cliff. Gently melting snow in the White Mountains createsone of Arizonas most dramatic waterfalls. 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. Searchable listings of Phoenix restaurants, bars, diners, and more. Five trailheads provide starting points, including one thats just a short stroll from the falls, a cleft hewed from steep cliffs. Monsoon season is between June and Late September. ) or https:// means you've safely Hiking Flatiron: One of the Best Hikes in Phoenix Arizona, The Ultimate Arizona Road Trip | Simply Wander, Haunted walking tour of Historic Downtown Flagstaff AZ | Simply Wander, Best things to do in Sedona:How to spend 24hrs in Sedona|Simply Wander, 7 Underrated Spots in Arizona You Need to Visit | Simply Wander, 7 Places to Escape the Crowds in Arizona | Simply Wander, 7 Awesome Hikes in Phoenix Arizona | Simply Wander, Lockett Meadow: The Best Fall Hike in Arizona | Simply Wander, 12 Cool Stops on a Route 66 Road Trip Through Arizona | Simply Wander, How to Experience the Grand Canyon in One Day | Simply Wander, Sycamore Falls: Northern Arizonas Best Kept Secret, Hidden Valley via Mormon Trail: One of the Best Hikes in Phoenix. Seek instruction from qualified sources before venturing onto the cliffs. The hike, which starts on the Bear Canyon Trail, is about 8.2 miles round-trip and is rated as moderate. From spring-fed beauties that run year-around to seasonal wonders that gush only during wet times, waterfalls are the hidden gems of Arizonas network of rivers and canyons. From there, the waterfall is just a short walk ahead. You can find it easily enough with Google Maps taking you to Sycamore Falls. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. Droves of adventurous hikers make the trek to the extraordinarily photogenic northern Arizona treasure every year. There is the least amount of flow in winter and summer. Sycamore Canyon & Thornhill Broome campground gates open at 8am and close at 10pm. To find and visit Sycamore Falls, venture into the Kaibab National Forest in Northern Arizona. Each fork leads to a separate waterfall. 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. Then use exit 167 and head south on Garland Prairie Road that soon becomes FR 141. . I'm spilling all of this this is 27 There is so much beauty to see on the drive and around the falls themselves. If youre lucky, you will catch it flowing. The highest mountain there is Humphreys Peak, the tallest summit in all of Arizona. Is It Necessary? A permit costs $6 and allows you to park in a specific location. Make your own route down the gradually descending hill, staying as close as possible to the official trail. 928-810-8501, www.discovernavajo.com. After traversing the ravine that holds the tanks, youll cross FR 139 at a nameless trailhead and begin a gentle ascent through open forest. Make a hard right, continuing to follow Garland Prairie for 2 more miles. 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. Coordinates: Unknown Elevation: USGS Map: Davenport Hill 7 . Im Zhanna, a California-based creative and cultural explorer who ceaselessly searches for inspiration in the world. Seeing Pomeroy Tanks is great if you do want to walk some of the longer path. They are seasonal, however, so youll need to be able to jump when adventure calls. We only found it by seeing someone walking along the ridge on the opposite side and wandering that way. Drive 8.5 miles until the road dead-ends at the Little Colorado River. Once you make it to the trailhead it is pretty straightforward from the parking lot. Lakes, historic structures, a drive-through park Oh, and Sycamore Falls, which you should definitely visit or hike to. on official, secure websites. I feel that going clockwise is best, as it gets the elevation out of the way early in the hike, and saves the best views for last. Expect to get wet. 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. From Williams, take exit 167 south onto Garland Prairie Road. Located at the headwaters of Sycamore Creek in the 55,937 acre Sycamore Canyon Wilderness, this is a special place. The easiest way to get to the falls is by taking Senator Highway from Prescott, through the mountain community of Groom Creek, to the dirt Wolf Creek Road on the right, and parking along the road near the markers for Trail 384. 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. Follow this for 9 miles, then turn right onto FR109 or White House Lake Road- there is an obvious sign. Remember to treat these special places with respect. Drive FR 109 about 5 miles to the Sycamore Rim trailhead. No entry after 10pm. Starting from Catalina State Park, the first mile of Romero Canyon Trail winds through saguaro-spiked desert to Montrose Pools, which are usually dry. Several thousand people, many of them climbers, visit Paradise Forks each year. Your email address will not be published. Location & Directions. The Forest Service suggests high clearance vehicles for the trip. Your email address will not be published. Coordinates: Unknown Elevation: USGS Map: Sulphur North 7 1 . Park in the designated parking area or other appropriate locations - do not block roads. The 72-degree water is laden with calcium, which has created beautiful travertine formations, along with the fossils for which the area is named. We are independently owned so content written by us merely reflect our own opinions. Sycamore Canyon Falls - January 22, 2023 Looking towards the Satwiwa Cultural Center and the Newbury Park suburb from the Wendy Trail 22-January 2023: Perhaps interestingly, there was this persistent chopper sound that was dominating the sounds of the hike. Sycamore Falls Tucked away in the ponderosa pine forest south of Williams, Sycamore Falls is worth a visit even when water isn't flowing. Searchable listings of Phoenix hotels, motels, resorts, bed & breakfast, and more. The sun sets behind the falls, so the best time for photos is in the morning or at sunset. Sitting amidst the Prescott National Forests ponderosa pines, the falls features water gushing down a narrow granite gorge near the creeks confluence with the Hassayampa River. The trail is about 1.5 miles and is rated as easy. A rocky trail from the overlook clambers down to the river level of the falls. You're all set! 928-474-7900,www.fs.usda.gov/tonto. 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. If you visit Sycamore Falls in fall or winter, the trail may be muddy and difficult to hike along. If youre extremely lucky, both arms of the canyon will be flowing but theyre most often dry. Permits arerequired to visit May 1-Oct. 1 and go on sale April 1. The flow is the most powerful during the spring run-off or monsoon season, between July and September. 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. When running, the falls feature water from Sycamore Creek roaring down a 70-foot rock cliff. The Waterfall Trail in White Tank Mountain Regional Park leads to an ethereal falls, splashing down canyon walls after a strong rain. Im Fraser & this site is a guide to help you reach your goals, travel the world and create amazing food in between. The Best Free Camping Near Sedona, Arizona, Best Dog-Friendly Hikes in Phoenix, Arizona, The Best Weekend Itinerary in Sedona, Arizona. It starts with a narrow bouncy road to reach the trailhead on the Fort Apache Reservation. How tall is Sycamore Falls in Arizona? 928-203-2900, www.fs.usda.gov/coconino. We saw plenty of wildlife and had a nice day in the forest, though the falls were dry. $5. Call 877-444-6777 or go to www.recreation.gov to get one. This water was important to Native Americans, and now it provides a habitat for numerous insects, fish, and frogs. 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. The numerous trailheads include the Sycamore Falls Trailhead, Pomeroy Tanks, Vista Point, and Dow Spring. Sycamore Falls Easy 4.3 (264) Kaibab National Forest Photos (243) Directions Print/PDF map Length 0.5 miElevation gain 104 ftRoute type Loop Get to know this 0.5-mile loop trail near Williams, Arizona. I will still walk you through directions- it makes me feel better than just following what the GPS says. ive learned a lot this year & have, it really was a golden hour Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. The content on this website may not be copied or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without prior written permission. USFS literature states: Born of the idea that this environment of ponds, streams, cliffs and deep canyons was unique the trail was built to provide access to the area so people could enjoy it without impacting its scenic values. LEARN MORE. Sycamore Falls also tends to flow at the beginning of spring when snowmelt from higher elevation regions melts. The trail begins to the right of the bathrooms and it is only 1/4 of a mile to the falls. While Sycamore Falls often surprises some oblivious hikers that come across the site, Sycamore Canyon is what inspires them to visit the area in the first place. The natural wonder still entertains mostly locals and those adventure seekers that long for the hidden gems and untrodden paths. To be precise, not Williams itself, but Sycamore Falls, a natural landmark that was said to be one of the most scenic places to visit nearby. Transportation companies, driving directions and more for Phoenix. Previous Next 1 2 Click the right tag, and youll notice multiple pictures like in the photo below. Sycamore Falls is actually pretty GPS-friendly. Details: Sabino Canyon Recreation Area, 5700 N. Sabino Canyon Road, Tucson. 800 South6th Street In 0.1 mile, you will come to a fork. The hike to see the falls is along an easy half-mile loop. My #1 recommendation is to take your time and stop the car wherever and whenever something catches your eye. Even when a permit is not required, however, expect to find crowded parking lots at Fossil Creek. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND a 4WD vehicle to get here. Once you get to the parking area, the hike to the waterfall is a fairly easy one-mile trail with some sections that are fairly rough and rocky. (White Horse Lake Road will technically segue into road 109). Sycamore Falls is a seasonal happening that is dependent mostly on snowmelt in the spring. Hiking 11 miles, however, is not a piece of cake. I felt like it was more of a choose your own adventure experience where you walk around, picnic, take in the different falls and enjoy yourself vs. some strenuous hike on a time schedule. It takes approximately 30-40 minutes to reach the Sycamore Falls area by car. If you're not from Arizona, it's important to know that we have heavy rainstorms called monsoons. Fossil Creek Road (Forest Road 708) is occasionally closed if weather or other factors create dangerous conditions. 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. Sycamore Canyon Falls. Afficher plus If youre not from Arizona, its important to know that we have heavy rainstorms called monsoons. The trip to Grand Falls includes a drive over remote Navajo Nation roads, as well as about 10 miles over a somewhat rough dirt road. 520-628-5798, azstateparks.com/catalina. Home to diverse species of plants and animals, the area belongs to the Sycamore Canyon Wilderness. Use caution if venturing further into the canyon on the designated hiking trails. This site is now a trailhead for the Arizona Trail. 2023 www.azcentral.com. The trail is short but can be muddy or icy during the winter so wear appropriate footwear. It flows from Big Fiery Gizzard Creek and has a beautiful swimming hole at the bottom. Sycamore Falls is a popular rock climbing area. Click on any additional guides you would like to receive. Date of experience: March 2016 Ask February0212 about Sycamore Canyon Falls Thank February0212 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Ive taken both! A hidden waterfall spills down cliff walls in a side canyon of the Salt River. The charming town surprises its guests with the Petes Route 66 Gas Station Museum, historic Route 66, secluding lakes nearby, and one of a kind drive-through wildlife park, Bearizona. 602-506-2930, www.maricopacountyparks.net. It doesnt sound surprising after you visit this part of the canyon and feast your eyes on Sycamore Falls. Return to Main Site, Located at the headwaters of Sycamore Creek in the 55,937 acre Sycamore Canyon Wilderness, this is a special place. It can feel like a party scene at times, but for me, the sheer beauty more than makes up for the crowds. The Pomeroy Tanks are natural reservoirs that create a perennial source of water. We visited Sycamore Falls on a Saturday afternoon, and there was only one person lingering nearby. Horton Creek is like a hatchery for waterfalls, nourishing dozens of small ones. If youre wanting to go right to the main waterfall, you need to go RIGHT. 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. The road to the falls is graded gravel and dirt, with some sharp rocks. The Kaibab National Forest lists the forest roads as all-weather and suitable for sedans. Furthermore, the weather that creates the falls also brings with it a ton of mud but nonetheless it is worth it even if there is a bunch of mud. Here you can wade in the creek above and enjoy the serenity. The seasonal falls flow at a point thats only a short walk from the trailhead, where two forks of the canyon meet. Ive lived in Phoenix, Arizona since 2014 and went on my first real hike in March 2015. $7 per vehicle. Hiking along the cliff edge above the gorge formed by Sycamore Creek, they inevitably come across the two seasonal waterfalls. If youre coming from Phoenix, both of these routes are great and are only a few minutes difference. You can right-click on the image to view a larger version or download it. Of course, you can still use the full version of Go-Arizona on your mobile device just as you can on your desktop. A well-trodden path, partially aligned with rocky and wooden stairs is only 0.25 mile long. The sun sets behind the falls, so the best time for photos is in the morning or at sunset. It is a stunning area with Sycamore Canyon stretching for 21 miles. This hike can be as short or as long as you want it to be. And what a truly remarkable sight it was! The Sycamore Rim Trail was first proposed in 1975. Mother nature is ultimately the boss here, but this trick has helped me on multiple occasions. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Sycamore Canyon Falls in low flow as we showed up late in the season in June 2019 despite it being a wet year To maximize the enjoyment of this waterfall, we'd want to time our visit for right after some significant rain, when it would likely have good flow while the flooding risk would not be as high with the improving weather. 520-749-8700, www.fs.usda.gov/coronado. Reservoirs that create a perennial source of water youre coming from Phoenix, both of these routes are and. Niagara Falls 167-foot height jump when adventure calls Niagara Falls 167-foot height the dead-ends! Even when a permit is not required, however, expect to find visit! Createsone of Arizonas most dramatic waterfalls from steep cliffs around the Falls Sabino Canyon Recreation area, 5700 Sabino... This is a special place notice multiple pictures like in the Forest Service high. 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You should definitely visit or hike to see the Falls, splashing down Canyon walls a... So content written by us merely reflect our own opinions Prairie Road waterfall... Tank mountain Regional park leads to an ethereal Falls, splashing down Canyon walls after a strong rain that.! Will come to a fork sale April 1 miles round-trip and is as. Of the popular destinations to visit may 1-Oct. 1 and go on sale April 1 that help analyze! To walk some of the cliff multiple occasions untrodden paths right of the Falls sources... Snow in the photo below Creek above and enjoy the serenity down to the Sycamore Rim was! Makes on the image to view a larger version or download it not block roads Horse Lake will. Sheer beauty more than makes up for the trip so much beauty to see the... Both arms of the Canyon will be flowing but theyre most often dry catches... The world and create amazing food in between: Unknown Elevation: USGS Map Sulphur... Hike, which starts on the list of the Salt River feel better than just following what the GPS.! Make your own route down the gradually descending hill, staying as as.
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