Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
50 ft
About Grand Falls
Grand Falls — nicknamed Chocolate Falls for its rich, muddy plume — is a dramatic 185-foot waterfall on the Navajo Nation Reservation, about 30 miles (48 km) northeast of Flagstaff in the Painted Desert. The falls dump seasonal snowmelt and storm runoff into the Little Colorado River, and their famously opaque flow is an important contributor to the river’s muddy appearance. Located on tribal land managed by the Navajo Nation, Grand Falls is most spectacular after heavy spring runoff or monsoon rains when the channel roars to life. Access is short but rewarding: a quick walk from the pullout brings you to expansive rim viewpoints where you can watch the churned, chocolate-colored water tumble into the canyon below. The official route is a 0.4-mile out-and-back with about 50 feet of elevation change and is rated easy, but the footing can be rocky and uneven in places so sturdy shoes are recommended. The nearest developed camping is the OLEARY GROUP SITE roughly 31.0 km away; plan accordingly and check Navajo Nation access rules before visiting.
The Setting
Grand Falls sits at 4,498 feet within Navajo Nation Reservation, in the mountains of Arizona. At 185 feet, it is among the taller waterfalls in Arizona.
Height: 185 feet
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 0.4-mile out-and-back trail gains 50 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Grand Falls is a short 0.4-mile out-and-back with approximately 50 feet of elevation gain and an easy difficulty rating. The grade is mostly flat to gently sloping, but expect rocky, uneven sections near the viewpoints; sturdy footwear and cautious footing are recommended. The route leads directly from the parking/pullout area to the rim viewing spots overlooking the 185-foot drop.
What to Expect
The falls plunge 185 feet. Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Grand Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Grand Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit Grand Falls is during the spring snowmelt (March-April) or after monsoon rains in late summer (July-August).
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Watch for flash flood warnings during monsoon season (July through September).
Safety Information
The unpaved roads can become hazardous during wet weather. Visitors should exercise caution near the edge of the falls, as the rocks can be slippery. There are no guardrails or safety barriers.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Grand Falls is located about 30 miles northeast of Flagstaff, Arizona. Access is via unpaved roads, and a high-clearance vehicle is recommended. Visitors should follow directions to Leupp Road and then take Indian Route 70 to reach the falls.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a designated parking area near the falls, but it is unpaved and may be difficult to access during wet conditions.
Elevation
4498 feet above sea level
Coordinates
35.427505° N, -111.200701° W
Land Management
Managed by TRIB
Visitor Tips & Gear
Check weather conditions before visiting, as the unpaved roads can become impassable after rain. Bring plenty of water, as there are no facilities nearby. Visit during the spring snowmelt or after monsoon rains for the best flow.
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For this easy 0.4 miles trail, lightweight trail shoes and a water bottle are usually sufficient. Icy conditions are common in winter — traction cleats are a smart addition.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Kahtoola MICROspikes
Cult-favorite traction cleats that grip ice and wet rock — essential for winter waterfall hikes.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
Where to Stay
Super 8 by Wyndham Flagstaff
Glenwood Pines
La Quinta by Wyndham Flagstaff
Americana Motor Hotel
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Campground
OLEARY GROUP SITE
19.3 miles away · 3 sites
Overview O'Leary Group Campground was constructed in 2001 and is named for O'Leary Peak, which overlooks this site. The campground is designed to accommodate the special needs of large groups with everything from picnic shelters, tables and grills, to lots of level ground covered in native volcanic cinders, perfect for setting up tents. Its proximity to Sunset Crater Volcano and Wupatki National Monuments make it especially suitable for visitors who are intrigued by the cultural and natural histo
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Flagstaff, Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, Wupatki National Monument.
Wildlife
The area is home to various desert wildlife, including birds, lizards, and small mammals.
Cities near Grand Falls
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