Yes, that’s right – there are waterfalls near Tucson, Arizona! This might seem strange given the area’s dry, desert climate, but there are actually a number of different waterfalls scattered around the region. So if you’re looking for a little bit of natural beauty in the middle of the desert, be sure to check out some of these amazing waterfalls!
The mountain cascades can be quite a spectacle if you visit at the optimal time, such as in early Spring or late Summer when melting snow or monsoon rains cause them to flow more abundantly. However, many of these waterfalls tend to be seasonal.
Here is our list of the most impressive waterfalls that you can hike to on the trails surrounding Tucson. The falls vary in height, but all are worth the trek. If you’re looking for an exhilarating hike with a breathtaking payoff, look no further than these majestic wonders.
1. Tanque Verde Falls
Tanque Verde Falls is the perfect spot for a waterfall lover. With a short hike to get there, multiple nearby falls, and a stunning main attraction, you’ll be in waterfall heaven. And the best part is that you can cool off in one of the many pools of water along the way.
There is always some water flowing here, but the early Spring and late Summer are the best times to see the full display. The water is usually crystal clear and very refreshing during these seasons.
WARNING: This waterfall, which is admired for its beauty and consequently draws many visitors, is also highly perilous. Not infrequently, people sustain injuries or even lose their lives here due to cliff jumping or flash floods. It is advised to not jump and falls should be avoided if rain is predicted in the vicinity or even farther away.
For those seeking a Level one hike, the falls are accessible. If, however, the waters are too strong to trek, an alternative is to build your own hike that leads to the nearby overlook situated atop the North wall of the canyon. From there you can still enjoy a great view.
2. Chiva Falls
Chive Falls is more commonly visited by people on wheels than on foot. It’s in the middle of Redington Pass and can be a spectacular site if you catch it at the right time of year. As you walk along the trail, you come to a rocky overhang. The pool below is generously filled by a cascade of water that pours over the edge of rocks and crashes onto a big rock. You can also climb behind the waterfall and enjoy the view of the water crashing down.
You may encounter several four-wheel drive vehicles and mountain bikes on your hike, but you can still reach Chiva Falls. This hike is rated as a 5, which means it’s difficult but doable.
3. Seven Falls
If there is one feature on this list that might not be a surprise to some, it is probably Seven Falls. The trailhead in Tucson that leads to this destination is incredibly sought after due to its popularity. The scenery is beautiful, and it’s a great workout. The seven waterfalls located in the rocky desert canyon flow almost year-round, creating an idyllic oasis in the middle of the otherwise harsh landscape. The falls are a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, providing a welcome respite from the hot, dry conditions of the surrounding area.
4. Bridal Wreath
If you’re looking for a breathtaking nature hike, head to the Douglas Spring trail past the east end of Speedway Boulevard. You’ll ascend into the Rincon Mountains’ foothills on the trail, where you’ll be rewarded with a stunning waterfall that appears seasonally. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water, as the hike can be challenging in places. But the stunning views of the mountains and waterfall are definitely worth it! A drop of more than 20 feet is created by a rocky overhang, which can be utilized as a seat when situated behind the cascading falls.
This stunning waterfall is the destination of the Level 3 Bridal Wreath hike. However, you can construct your own journey by including Ernie’s Falls, which is close by, or make Bridal Wreath a stop on the way to Douglas Springs Campsite. By doing this, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience full of natural beauty.
5. Lemmon Pools
Surrounded by towering canyon walls, the tranquil spot is a hidden gem, featuring three waterfalls tumbling into a large pool. A huge flat rock provides the perfect place to relax and take in natural beauty, while deciduous trees offer dappled shade. A small sandbar creates a secluded area to read or nap in peace. Lemmon Pools is a serene getaway where you can relax to the sound of a spring-fed waterfall. It’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and recharge your batteries. Lemmon Pools is also a great spot for picnicking, hiking, fishing, and bird-watching. So whether you’re looking to relax or get active, Lemmon Pools is the perfect destination for you.
Familiarity with the area is essential if you want to reach Lemmon Pools since there is no designated trail. Therefore, you’ll need to come up with your own route to get there.
6. Seven Cataracts
Another term for a waterfall is a “cataract,” which is also an eye problem. The title of these seven cascades, which are in sequence, had to be different from “Seven Falls” since that name was already taken; it can be found on this list.
Cataracts can be viewed from the vista point of the Catalina Highway, though it’s hard to grasp their magnitude from that vantage point.
The Seven Cataracts are located down a very slippery and treacherous route that is far too dangerous to be considered an official Level 1 hike. If you want to visit the Seven Cataracts, you will need to build your own trail to get there.
7. Sabino Dam
A reservoir with a perpetually running Sabino Creek was designed to be recreational and constructed in the form of a man-made waterfall called Sabino Dam. The dam is located on Sabino Creek in Santa Cruz County, Arizona. Construction of the dam began in 1927 and was completed in 1928. The dam is made of concrete and has a height of 30 feet and a length of 410 feet. The dam has become a well-loved spot to unwind with its cascading water over the rocky barrier, although the lake was filled with silt years ago and now the pools below are all that remains. The area has been a popular spot for picnics and swimming for years, but now it’s even more popular because of the newly installed waterfall.
The Sabino Canyon Dam is the perfect place to start your exploration of the dam for the first time. The Level 1 loop hike will take you around the dam and give you a chance to see it up close. You’ll get to experience the dam’s impressive size and learn about its history. With its stunning views, this hike is not to be missed!
8. La Milagrosa Falls
Rainfall occurring throughout the year in southern Arizona ends up in La Milagrosa Canyon, located between the Agua Caliente Hill and the Catalinas, which is northeast of Tucson. The canyon features four consecutive pools that are fed by just as many waterfalls.
There are multiple ways to reach the falls, but the most direct route is by taking the Level 1 Milagrosa Pools to hike up the canyon. One alternative is to construct your own trek based on the Milagrosa Loop route to access the falls from above. Whichever way you choose, you’re sure to have an enjoyable and memorable experience.
If you take on the Milagrosa Loop hike, you will come across another waterfall-fed pool about halfway through the journey. This second pool is one of the many highlights of the hike and makes for a great place to take a break, have a swim and enjoy the surroundings.
9. Novio Falls
Just a few steps away from Novio Spring, a stream cascades down three levels of solid rock that were produced by the mountain. Visiting during the early Spring when the snow melt is augmenting the flow of water is ideal; however, there’s usually a steady stream present throughout. As you approach the waterfall, you’ll be able to see and hear the rushing water as it falls down the tiers of rock, creating a cascade of refreshing water. The cool spray from the waterfall will be a welcome relief on a hot day.
The Butterfly Loop hike is the perfect way to see the falls, but you’ll need to keep an eye out for the little spur trails that can take you to either the top or the bottom of the falls themselves. This is an incredible hike with stunning views, so make sure you don’t miss out on anything by keeping your eyes peeled for those spur trails!
10. Romero Falls
The waterfalls at Romero Canyon are overshadowed by its nearly perennial pools, which make it a popular watery playground much like Maiden Pools. However, that shouldn’t take away from the cascades that are there. The cascades provide a beautiful backdrop for an already stunning location. Not far from the renowned pools, there is a small loop in the path that branches off and reconnects on either side. In the center, you can find one of the most amazing views.
Approximately two-thirds of the way to Romero Pools, there is a magnificent lookout point with massive rocks that overlook Romero Canyon in the north. When gazing down into it, another splendid waterfall can usually be seen at the bottom.
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