Swimming Holes In Arizona

Swimming Holes In Arizona
Heyleena
Heyleena 
Updated
| 5 min read

In the southwestern part of the United States lies Arizona—a land of contrast. Its northern region is sprawled with luxuriant pine forests and ski resorts such as Flagstaff, which has moderate summer temperatures to significant winter snowfalls. On the other end, its southern desert region has very hot summers and mild winters. From its iconic cowboys to its indigenous Native American culture, Arizona offers travelers a unique cultural experience. It has utterly attracted many adventurers to places like the spectacular Grand Canyon, Red Rock State Park, Monument Valley, and the Sonoran Desert filled with pink-blossom cacti. Its less explored places like the Hopi villages dates back to 1,000 years offers visitors incredible encounters. As you head to the more secluded areas of the southern region you will be greeted with the red rugged scenery, spellbinding waterfalls, turquoise swimming holes, and bewitching creeks. If you’re someone who loves to take a refreshing plunge in the Arizonian swimming holes then scroll down to learn more.

1. Havasu Falls

Havasu Falls, Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
Source: Photo by Flickr user Lee Render used under CC BY-SA 2.0

This surreal attraction is home to the people of the Blue and Green waters also known as the Havasupai Tribe. Havasu Falls is found in a remote area of the western Grand Canyon National Park’s South Rim, in the Havasupai reservation which is very difficult to access. The protected area has five fabulous, spring-fed waterfalls with bright turquoise swimming holes. The rugged landscape definitely strikes visitors due to its stunning contrast of the red scorched canyons and its 100-foot (30.48-meter) high turquoise Havasu waterfall. There are two ways to get the swimming pool, either by a helicopter or an 8-mile (12.87-kilometer) trek from the nearest road. From there the trek becomes challenging and rigorous by swinging on ropes, jumping off the cliffs and eventually scaling down the waterfalls to get into the refreshing swimming hole.

Havasu Falls

Address: Havasu Falls Arizona 86435, USA

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2. Seven Falls

Seven Falls
Source: Photo by Flickr user Andy Atzert used under CC BY 2.0

Set in the stunning sturdy Sabino Canyon in Tucson, the impressive Seven Falls flows majestically to form spectacular falls. The ideal visiting period is in late winter or early spring when the waterfalls are fed by heavy rains or snowmelt. There are many hiking trails in this region and it gets pretty crowded at weekends. To reach the swimming hole you will need to take a sweaty hike of about 8 miles (12.87 kilometers) to and fro. If you need some proper guidance about the trail then you can find maps and some useful information by visiting the Visitor Center which is located about 1.7 miles (2.7 kilometers) from the trailhead. You can opt for a tram to get to the trailhead which is about 3.5 miles (5.6 kilometers) round trip. Find the inviting swimming holes for a refreshing plunge to replenish yourself, and connect to the tranquil surroundings.

Seven Falls

Address: 5700 N Sabino Canyon Rd, Tucson, AZ 85750, USA

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3. Bull Pen

West Clear Creek Trail
Source: Photo by Flickr user Coconino National... used under CC0

Enjoy the beautiful hiking trail which is an enchanting secluded area filled with wild trees and plants. The hiking track is rather easy and is about 15 miles (24.14 kilometers) east of Camp Verde along the West Clear Creek. Connect with nature and feast your eyes as you walk through your way till the sublime swimming hole. Take a well-deserving plunge in the cool water pool and rejuvenate yourself in the midst of the natural surroundings. You can also swing on a hanging rope to have fun and jump in the water. There are particular cliff jumping rocks ranging in different heights for everyone. They have a brown and slight reddish color which contrasts perfectly with the green backdrop. The minimum water depth is 3 feet (0.91 meters) and maximum can go up to 20 feet (6 meters).

Bull Pen

Address: Bull Pen Rd, Camp Verde, AZ 86322, USA

Website: Bull Pen

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4. Fossil Creek

Fossil Creek
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user USFS

Featured as one of the most preferred swimming holes, the Fossil Creek owns its name to the particular fossil formation due to the mineral springs that have laid down huge deposits of travertine. Its springs come from the cliffs of the Mogollon Rim. The spot is a magnet for nature lovers and thrill seekers. Its crystal clear turquoise swimming hole is one of its highlights. Its contrasting imposing surrounding is made up of the verdant riparian area and the brittle desert land. Fossil Creek is classified as one of two ‘Wild and Scenic’ rivers in Arizona. Its fauna consists of beavers, leopard frogs, otters, and common black hawks.

Fossil Creek

Address: Fossil Creek, Arizona USA

Website: Fossil Creek

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5. Red Rock Crossing

Cathedral Rock at Red Rock Crossing
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Adam Baker used under CC BY 2.0

As you approach the area you will be welcomed by the dramatic scenic view of the Cathedral Rock standing majestically. The attraction is considered as the most-photographed sights in Arizona due to the natural landmark. The park is found just a couple miles west from the town center. It has various depths of swimming holes catering for all ages. Facilities include parking areas, restrooms where maps are available, a beach and picnic areas with concrete picnic tables. This could be you next hideaway to spend with family!

Red Rock Crossing

Address: Red Rock Crossing Road, Arizona 86336, USA

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6. Slide Rock

Slide Rock Creek
Source: Photo by Flickr user Edwin Davila used under CC BY 2.0

The Slide Rock swimming hole owns its name from the natural water slide which has been formed by the slippery bed of Oak Creek. Children will definitely enjoy sliding on the rock while having fun with the refreshing water. The Slide Rock State Park is found in Oak Creek Canyon just 7 miles (11 kilometers) away from the north of Sedona. The site is one of the oldest and most visited parks in Sedona. Its strikingly beautiful surroundings are engulfed by the typical tall red rock formations. The park has a 43-acre (17-hectare) working apple farm dating back to the 1990’s. The inviting glassy green pools are ideal to swim and revitalize oneself. Facilities include a parking area, a restroom, and a general store.

Slide Rock

Address: 6871 AZ-89A, Sedona, AZ 86336, USA

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7. Romero Pools

Romero Canyon Pool
Source: Photo by Flickr user Alan Levine used under CC BY 2.0

The Romero Pools are located in Catalina State Park, just north of Tuscon. To access the secluded and sublime natural swimming pools you need to pay an entrance fee so you can hike for about 2 hours. The hike can become tedious as you progressively move further. Expect to see a remarkable landscape consisting of the natural oasis and groves of trees. It is recommended to avoid going to the place during rainstorms as there is a risk of flash flood. The favorable period to hike is from September through May.

Romero Pools

Address: W Romero Pools Pl Marana, AZ 85743, USA

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8. Grasshopper Point

Grasshopper Point
Source: Photo by Flickr user popofatticus used under CC BY 2.0

Grasshopper Point is another option to consider if you are around Oak Creek Canyon beside Slide Rock. The area is bestowed with an incredible large cliff, lush green vegetations and a refreshingly large swimming hole reflecting a glossy green color. If you wish for a little adventure then there are several hiking trails accessible from the parking lot. The attraction is popular for hiking, cliff jumping, picnicking wildlife watching and photography.

Grasshopper Point

Address: N State Rte 89A, Sedona, AZ 86336, USA

Website: Grasshopper Point

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9. Ellison Creek

Hiking Trail
Source: Pixabay

Tucked away in a dense pine forest, Ellison Creek offers a gorgeous ice cold swimming hole to nature adventurers. The creek is located between Payson and Mogollon Rim. Enjoy the scenic hiking trail which has a prehistoric looking landscape including several ponds on the way. As you reach to the inviting swimming hole you can do cliff jumping. To avoid crowds it is better to visit the place on weekdays. You can stroll around to explore more of this attraction.

Ellison Creek

Address: Ellison Creek Trail, Arizona 85541, USA

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10. The Crack

WetBeaverCreek
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Smiles1479

The crack on Wet Beaver Creek is nestled in a reddish desert in Sedona. It will take you approximately 4 miles (6 kilometers) to reach at the cliff jumping paradise-a stunning oasis ideal for a refreshing plunge. Begin your hike at the historic Bell Trail which is still used to move cattle to the top of the Mogollon Rim. You can refer to the informational signs at the parking area to get to know more about the wildlife of the area. The creek is encompassed by a canopy of trees providing some shades from the scorching sun. There are many jumping spots ranging from 8 to 30 feet high (2 to 48 meters).

The Crack

Address: Wet Beaver Creek Arizona 86335, USA

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Explore the stunning swimming holes in Arizona

Mooney Falls, Arizona, 2006
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Ostrich nOise

Head to the bewitching creeks of Arizona to cliff jump, swim, and rejuvenate in the midst of nature.

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Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
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Heyleena is a passionate travel writer who enjoys writing travel articles for people who seek to explore new places in a more conscious way. From travel guides to recommended vacation rentals, get...Read more

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