Grand Falls, also known as Chocolate Falls, is hands down one of the coolest waterfalls I have ever seen! The falls don’t run year-round, but when they do, they are spectacular! The waterfall and river look like they came out of the Willy Wonka movie. In addition to the unique color, the falls are huge. At 185 feet, Grand Falls is taller than Niagra Falls! There are also rainbows at the bottom anytime the sun is out. The combination of the chocolate-flowing river and waterfall with beautiful rainbows is unreal! Click here to see a short video of the falls flowing; they are incredible!
Be Sure and Check that Grand Falls is Allowing Visitors Before You Go
On March 1, 2023, the Navajo Nation Tourism Department announced that Grand Falls would be closed until further notice. According to the Tourism Department, the falls were shut down due to negative environmental impacts, including litter and traffic. The closure applies to visitors and non-residential individuals, with the exception of State and federally-recognized tribes for cultural preservation. There have been discussions about opening the area back up to the public. You can check the Navajo Nation Tourism Department site for updates.
Directions to Grand Falls
This area can be difficult to get to. Therefore, it’s recommended to have a vehicle with four-wheel drive, though it’s not necessary.
From I-40, 15 miles east of Flagstaff, take exit 211 at Winona. Drive 2.3 miles north to Leupp Rd. Turn right and drive 20.3 miles to unpaved and unsigned Indian Road 6910 (between mileposts 5 and 6). Turn left and drive along this rough road 9.4 miles to the turnoff on the left, which leads to the falls overlook (do not cross the Little Colorado River).
Grand Falls can also be accessed from Indian Road 70 (instead of 6910). Look for a sign that says “Grand Falls Bible Church” and take a left on that road. This road is located 15.0 miles along Leupp Rd (5.3 miles before Road 6910). Follow Road 70 8.4 miles to the same turnoff on the left before the Little Colorado River (Roads 6910 and 70 join together just before the turnoff).
Make Sure the Falls Are Flowing Before You Go
The falls are fed by the snowmelt and rain from the White Mountains and flow into the Little Colorado River. For this reason, there are only specific times of year when the waterfalls are actually flowing. The best times to see the falls are during March and April. This is due to the snowmelt from earlier in the year. There is also a period in the summer when you can see the falls flowing due to the monsoon season, but the window can be short and is highly dependent on the weather patterns of that year.
I recommend planning your trip by observing the water levels on the official USGS website. Make sure the water reading is above 200 per cubic foot if you want to see water. If the reading is in the thousands, plan to visit Grand Falls within 24-48 hours; the falls should be flowing.
Hiking
There are two trails at Grand Falls. The first follows the rim of the canyon and provides great views of the falls from above. There are lookout points with benches that provide shade. This trail is self-explanatory and easy.
The second trial takes you to the base of the falls. This trail is located in front of the glass. The hike is only a mile round-trip, but it is more difficult. If you follow the path, you shouldn’t have any problems, but it is steep, and you should use caution as there is loose rock. Once you reach the bottom, take caution, as there are areas near the base of the falls that get very muddy. Make sure you wear shoes that can withstand mud if you decide to hike all the way to the water.
Leave It Better Than You Found It
Always remember to do your part to keep the area beautiful by packing in everything you pack out and not changing the landscape. Remember to respect nature and follow ethical practices when engaging in outdoor activities. Always leave a place better than you found it, and practice the principles of Leave No Trace. Enjoy your time exploring the trails and discovering the area’s hidden treasures!