
Sycamore Canyon Wilderness
Discover a pristine Arizona gem, a 'mini Grand Canyon' with stunning waterfalls, refreshing swimming holes, and diverse landscapes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid crowds at popular spots

Sycamore Canyon Wilderness
Best Time
Avoid crowds at popular spots
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover a pristine Arizona gem, a 'mini Grand Canyon' with stunning waterfalls, refreshing swimming holes, and diverse landscapes.
"One of the most beautiful remaining places in the state. Thank god it hast yet been stained with the touch of man."

Pack extra water! 💧
Always bring more water than you think you'll need, especially on hikes.
Wear sturdy shoes 👟
This is not a flip-flop hike; tennis shoes are recommended for the trails.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sycamore Falls
Upper head of the canyon at Paradise Forks
A beautiful waterfall accessible by car, offering a refreshing escape and a scenic hike.
Parsons Trail Swimming Hole
Sycamore Canyon Wilderness near Clarkdale, AZ
A popular 1.2-mile hike leading to a stunning swimming hole, perfect for a cool dip.
Sycamore Canyon Scenic Drive
Williams to Verde Valley
Experience a dramatic landscape shift from ponderosa pines to desert vistas on this 21-mile scenic route.
Mini Grand Canyon Views
Sycamore Canyon Wilderness
Discover a landscape reminiscent of a miniature Grand Canyon with red rock formations.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing Sycamore Canyon Wilderness
Respecting the Wilderness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack extra water! 💧
Always bring more water than you think you'll need, especially on hikes.
Wear sturdy shoes 👟
This is not a flip-flop hike; tennis shoes are recommended for the trails.
Go early to beat crowds ☀️
Visit weekdays or super early to avoid afternoon/weekend crowds at Parsons Trail.
Check road conditions 🚗
Access roads are often grated, but check for recent rain or snow before driving.
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack extra water! 💧
Always bring more water than you think you'll need, especially on hikes.
Wear sturdy shoes 👟
This is not a flip-flop hike; tennis shoes are recommended for the trails.
Go early to beat crowds ☀️
Visit weekdays or super early to avoid afternoon/weekend crowds at Parsons Trail.
Check road conditions 🚗
Access roads are often grated, but check for recent rain or snow before driving.
Leave no trace ♻️
Cherish the beauty and keep this pristine area clean for everyone.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Sycamore Canyon Wilderness for its breathtaking natural beauty, often comparing it to a 'mini Grand Canyon.' The accessible Sycamore Falls and the popular swimming hole via Parsons Trail are major highlights. While some note the impact of past fires on water flow, the area remains a cherished, pristine escape.
"One of the most beautiful remaining places in the state. Thank god it hast yet been stained with the touch of man.
We need to protect this place. Where the birds still sing and the deer still run.
Respect and cherish the breathtaking beauty and the sacred nature of our country."
pete furman
"I wanted to see sycamore Falls. There was lots of wildlife and it was a nice cool summer day hike"
Randall Jordan
"This area is great. Being in Sycamore Canyon Wilderness is like being in a miniature Grand Canyon. The 2020 Rafael fire did some damage in regards to flooding events, so the streams aren't quite the same with a lot of down debris, but it's still a great place. The Parsons trail is mild overall, with the heavy breathing part being the short switchbacks climbing back out (not that bad if you're able bodied). Always bring more water than you think you'll need!
Avoid the afternoon/weekend crowds that will show up at Parsons for the swimming hole by going on a week day or SUPER early in the AM. This is not a flip flop hike, so be sure to bring your tennis shoes!"
Rachael Warburton
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Access varies by location. Sycamore Falls is reachable by car, often via dirt roads. Parsons Trail, leading to a swimming hole, is near Clarkdale, AZ. Some areas are accessible from I-40 via Garland Prairie Rd.
Generally, 4WD is not required unless there's been steady rain or snow. Access roads are typically grated.
The route through Sycamore Canyon Wilderness offers a scenic drive, transitioning from pine forests to desert landscapes. Water sources can be scarce on this stretch.
No, most trailheads in Sycamore Canyon Wilderness are in undeveloped areas and lack facilities.
Sycamore Canyon is located south of the Grand Canyon, between Williams and Sedona, offering a different but equally stunning natural experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Sycamore Canyon Wilderness is a public land area, and typically there are no entrance fees. However, always check for any specific permit requirements for certain activities or areas.
As a wilderness area, Sycamore Canyon is generally accessible year-round during daylight hours. However, specific trailheads or access points might have unofficial limitations.
While there aren't typically official tours for the wilderness area itself, local outfitters may offer guided hikes or off-road tours that include parts of Sycamore Canyon.
For general day hiking, permits are usually not required. However, if you plan on extended stays or specific activities, it's wise to check with the Coconino National Forest for any potential permit needs.
Since Sycamore Canyon is a natural wilderness area, there are no 'tickets' in the traditional sense. Access to trailheads and natural features like Sycamore Falls or the Parsons Trail swimming hole is generally free.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Parsons Trail is popular for its swimming hole (1.2 miles). Other trails offer rim vistas or explore the canyon floor. The hike to Sycamore Falls is also a highlight.
Yes, some areas like the hike to Sycamore Falls or the initial part of Parsons Trail are manageable for families. Be mindful of steep sections and water safety.
Expect to see various wildlife, including birds and deer. Keep a safe distance and do not feed the animals.
Yes, the swimming hole at the end of Parsons Trail is a popular spot for swimming. Sycamore Falls also offers opportunities for water enjoyment.
Yes, its remote location and minimal light pollution make it an excellent spot for stargazing, especially if you stay at nearby resorts.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the dramatic canyon landscapes, the cascading Sycamore Falls, and the serene swimming holes. The 'mini Grand Canyon' views are particularly photogenic.
Golden hour (early morning and late afternoon) offers the best light for landscape photography, highlighting the red rock formations and canyon depths.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive canyon views, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A polarizing filter can help manage the bright Arizona sun.
Drone usage in wilderness areas can be restricted. It's essential to check with the Coconino National Forest or relevant authorities for current regulations before flying a drone.
Use a tripod for long exposures to create a silky water effect at Sycamore Falls. Consider a neutral density filter if shooting during bright daylight.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚗 Day-Trippers
🏞️ Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking and Trails
For those seeking waterfalls, Sycamore Falls is a must-visit. It's accessible by car and offers a pleasant hike with scenic views. The canyon itself provides a landscape often compared to a 'mini Grand Canyon,' with striking red rock formations and diverse flora. Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as some trails can be rocky or uneven, and always carry ample water.
Water Activities and Swimming
While the swimming holes are a highlight, remember that water sources can be scarce on longer treks through the canyon, so planning is crucial for multi-day excursions.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit