These falls aren't easy to find, unless you enjoy running the river in a
small watercraft, such as a raft, kayak or canoe.
An ancient basalt flow fills this area of the Verde River in central AZ.
The basalt flow constricted the flow of the river in this area, creating
these swift-flowing (Class 4) falls.
Most people have never heard of the Verde River in central Arizona.
Beginning southwest of Flagstaff, the Verde flows south and merges with the
Salt River just east of Phoenix.
The boating season for rafts is very short and in some years non-existent.
Rafting is only possible at peak runoff when the river overflows its banks
and cascades through the trees and brush. The flow must be at least 500 cfs
to raft the Verde, and it can be quite challenging.
Kayaks, canoes and small inflatables can float the river at much lower flows.
If you are willing to push and drag your boat over shallow areas, it's
possible to run the Verde at flows as low as 150 cubic feet per second.
There's a faint trail leading to these falls from the "Brown Spring Road"
within the Verde Valley section of the Prescott National Forest.
September 28, 2008
Important links: Watching the River
FLOW
Getting yourself orientated!
water flow rates
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