Sycamore Falls is a collection of captivating waterfalls located at the head of separate branches of Sycamore Canyon, approximately 15 miles west of Sedona. While there may be additional side waterfalls in the area, this write-up will focus on the two main waterfalls that are within close proximity to each other.

Previously, Sycamore Falls remained relatively unknown due to the secluded nature of Sycamore Canyon and the short period when its streams flow. However, these waterfalls have gained popularity in recent years, attracting visitors from near and far.

It’s important to note that the waterfalls may not flow consistently throughout the year. During my visits in early October 2022, the waterfalls were not flowing despite sporadic thunderstorms in the Coconino Plateau area. Unlike other temporary waterfalls in the region, such as Grand Falls and Picture Canyon Waterfall, Sycamore Falls are less dependable in terms of water flow.

To increase the chances of witnessing the falls in action, it is advisable to plan a visit during the snowmelt season in late winter or early spring when there has been substantial snow accumulation. Alternatively, one might get lucky with a monsoonal thunderstorm during mid- to late summer.

Exploring Sycamore Falls can be done through a short 3/4- to 1-mile loop hike. Starting from the Sycamore Falls Trailhead, the trail descends moderately and passes through a lightly forested area that had been affected by a recent fire.

After reaching a trail fork, I took the right path, which led me between recovering burnt pinyon juniper trees until I reached the rim of Sycamore Canyon. Following the canyon rim for about 100 feet, I spotted the first of the two waterfalls, informally known as the Gold Pond. This 25-foot waterfall nestled among towering 100-foot red rock cliffs can be easily missed if not observed from the rim.

Continuing along the trail, approximately 500 feet later, I reached a viewpoint showcasing the confluence of two outflow drainages. From here, I followed the other drainage upstream for another 500 feet until I reached a 70-foot dark wall, labeled as Sycamore Falls on my Gaia GPS map. Unlike the first waterfall, this one had no flow during my visit, but a dark pool at the base caught my attention.

While the first waterfall may be considered more reliable in terms of flow, the second waterfall is the more popular and easily accessible of the two. Many visitors enjoy relaxing near the dry creek bed at the brink of the falls, despite the smoothness of the rocks in the area.