We can all agree that chocolate fountains are the best part of any wedding or event. Dipping a strawberry or marshmallow into the rich, luscious stream is the ultimate dessert experience. Here in Arizona, there’s a waterfall that bears an uncanny resemblance to the decadent treat, and although you can’t eat it, you can only see it during springtime and it’s a treat for your eyes rather than your taste buds. Check it out:
Over 100,000 years ago, lava flowed from Merriam Crater into a nearby gorge on the Little Colorado River. Once cooled, it formed a dam that blocked the water from reaching its intended destination: the Grand Canyon.
Sierralara / Getty Images River water builds up behind the blockage until finally spilling over, cascading down a series of rock walls into the channel below.
Hiding on an Indian Reservation in remote northeastern Arizona, this incredible place is known as Grand Falls. Locals have nicknamed it “Chocolate Falls” due to the distinct brown color caused by sand and clay the water picks up as it travels over 150 miles from high atop the White Mountains.
Jennifer Stewart / Getty Images
Each spring, snow that accumulated throughout winter melts away and trickles down the slopes. From there, it turns into sludge and slowly begins making its way here.
Pete Pallagi / Getty Images
As the falls are a by-product of snow, it is only active for a limited time during the spring. By mid-April, visitors will be met with a dried up, albeit still strikingly beautiful, canyon.
kojihirano / Getty Images
Another little-known tidbit about this remarkable natural wonder is that, at a height of 185 feet, it stands even taller than the majestic Niagara Falls. Gaze into the seemingly endless surge at sunset and you just might see a glistening rainbow or two.
Darren White Photography / Getty Images
Right now is the prime time to witness this spectacular phenomenon, although the canyon can be visited year-round. There’s no admission fee, so it’s the perfect weekend family activity!
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Click here for driving directions from Flagstaff to Grand Falls. We highly recommend taking a high-clearance vehicle, as some portions of the road are rough and bumpy.
Sierralara / Getty Images
River water builds up behind the blockage until finally spilling over, cascading down a series of rock walls into the channel below.
Jennifer Stewart / Getty Images
Pete Pallagi / Getty Images
kojihirano / Getty Images
Darren White Photography / Getty Images
Flickr/edmerritt
Have you ever visited Grand Falls? If so, let us know all about your experience and we’d love to see photos you snapped of this spectacular scene! Share them in the comments below, in our Arizona Nature Lovers Facebook group, or by tagging us on Instagram (@only_in_arizona) using #OnlyInAZ2019.
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