Monsoon season brings some wild weather to the Arizona desert between July and September. If you happen to be visiting the Flagstaff/Williams area during this time, you might get a chance to witness some of the rare waterfalls that flow during this time.
Williams, Arizona
Sycamore Falls
Keep in mind, a friend visited this two weeks before me and it was completely dry. It’s really been a matter of watching the weather and knowing the best time to go. It had been raining all week up there and this day was only a 30% chance so we decided to head up for the day and see if we got lucky!
Summers in Arizona are insanely hot & dry and when we get large amounts of rain in a short period, flash floods become a big issue. Be safe if you plan to visit this location.
Living in Arizona you don’t often get a chance to play in the rain, sooooooo I decided to bust out my red Hunter rain boots! Links below to my outfit items from this day trip.
- Red Hunter Boots
- Black/White Striped Long Sleeve Shirt
- Fabletics Black Leggings
- Olive jacket is no longer available (alternate option)
There are two seasonal waterfalls and pools near this rock climbing area known as Paradise Forks.
To get there from Phoenix, drive 2hrs north towards Flagstaff. From Flagstaff, drive west on the 40 for another 27 miles and take exit 167 for Garland Prairie Road. This part will be unpaved & it can get muddy. I have a 4×4 truck with off-road tires and never had any issues. You will then have to take this south across railroad tracks for another 8 miles. Turn right onto Forest Service Road 109. Take this for another 3.3 miles til you see a small parking area.
We decided to take and alternate route back to Flagstaff and came across some abandoned cabins and barns. Quite a fun place to keep out of the rain for a while before heading back home to Phoenix.
Overview
Waterfalls are not always flowing – typically only after snow melt or recent monsoon rains
Less than a 1/2 mile hike from the parking area
Dirt Forest Service Road to get there
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