Arizona is home to so many different types of landscapes, which is why is it an amazing place to live. Seriously, if the weather stayed about 70 degrees year round, I’d never leave. We have the desert, the red mountains of Sedona, the luscious trees and greenery of Flagstaff, the mystical slot canyons of Page, and who can forget one of the Seven Wonders of the World: the Grand Canyon.
However, some of my favorite places in Arizona are the hard-to-find water paradises. They do exist. And there are SO MANY. My favorite spot in all of Arizona is Havasupai: the unbelievable turquoise blue waterfalls deep in the Grand Canyon (essential packing guide here). I just love a good waterfall. So, when I heard that there is a “chocolate” waterfall hidden just outside of Flagstaff, I knew we had to find it.
Read on to find out everything you need to know about visiting Grand Falls: Arizona’s Chocolate Waterfall!
What is Grand Falls?
Grand Falls is a 181 foot tall waterfall fed by the Little Colorado River. These falls are higher than Niagara Falls and most commonly known as “Chocolate Falls” due to its extremely muddy flow. Grand Falls was formed when lava from the nearby Merriam Crater flowed into the Little Colorado River creating what is called a “lava dam.” The water from the Little Colorado River diverted around the dam and Grand Falls was formed where the river was able to rejoin its original course.
Where is Grand Falls?
Grand Falls is located about 41 miles northeast of Flagstaff. Driving north on I-17, take I-40E towards Albuquerque. Drive 16 miles and take Exit 211 towards Winona. Turn left onto Winona Ranch Road and drive for 2.3 miles, making a right onto Leupp Road. Drive 15 miles and turn left onto Indiana Road 70; you will see signs at this point for Grand Falls! There is an unmarked parking area about 8.5 miles down this unpaved road on the left (look for a bathroom and gazebo area).
Do I need a permit to visit Grand Falls?
No! Seriously. So get your tookus there while you still can.
When is the best time to see Grand Falls?
The best time to visit Grand Falls is March or April. Because the waterfall is fed by the melting snow in the White Mountains, spring time is really the only time you will be able to see water flow. During the rest of the year, Grand Falls is reduced to a tiny little trickle of water.
What do I do at Grand Falls?
Enjoy your surroundings! This place is magical. Bring a book, pack a picnic, sit on a blanket, and just enjoy. I have read that there is a trail to the bottom of the falls. When we visited, I could not find a safe way down and the one way you could get down lead right into the water! Maybe next time we’ll wear water shoes and take the plunge.
Other things to know!
Grand Falls: Arizona’s Chocolate Waterfall, is on Navajo Land. This means pack-it-in and pack-it-out, respect the land you are on, and do not drive off the paths. The dirt road is not very suitable for small passenger cars but it can be done very carefully. Don’t forget water, snacks, and something sweet as you wander around a real life Willy Wonka Chocolate Waterfall 🙂
Yours,
Bohemian Postcards
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