It used to be that visitors were able to reach Grand Falls on the Navajo Nation, but due to constant disrespect for the area, its residents, and their livestock, the tribe has decided to indefinitely close off access to tourists.
In respect of the tribe’s wishes to keep this area sacred, I’ve decided to remove directions from this post and dedicate it to raising awareness on the matter. If you are wondering why it is closed, or wondering what you can do instead, keep reading.
Why Did Grand Falls Close?
The Leupp Chapter – which is the first established Navajo Nation Chapter – was gracious enough to allow tourists onto their land for years to witness the beauty of Grand Falls aka Chocolate Falls themselves.
Unfortunately, over time, it grew so popular that it was attracting the wrong types of crowds, and they’ve been left with no choice but to close off access.
Visitors were littering, exploring deeper into their sacred spaces without permission, trespassing on their private property, 4×4’ing where they weren’t supposed to, and chasing their livestock. It is all terrible, but the chasing the livestock is what really gets to me. So disappointing.
It is quite sad that people feel so obliged to be disrespectful, especially when it isn’t their land.
Can You Still Visit Chocolate Falls?
As far as I know the Leupp Chapter does not have any plans to re-open access to tourists. They are closing off visitor access indefinitely.
I was reached out to personally by a member of the Grand Falls Coalition, whom happens to reside a half mile from the falls themselves. Their livestock has been aggressively chased by off road vehicles, and they attested to the fact that 4×4 vehicles were traveling to restricted areas. The member stated visitors should have just stayed at the overlook.
The member also kindly requested I remove the information on Grand Falls because they’ve chosen to close it indefinitely, and from what I’ve heard, people are still trying to trespass and not abide by their wishes.
This is why I’ve chosen to remove all directions to Grand Falls and eventually delete this post altogether, once more people realize that the falls are indefinitely closed.
If you’re not from the area and are looking for other things to do, I’d be more than happy to redirect you.
- Winslow is a fun little city full of unique things to do. Check out BEST things to do when visiting Winslow, Arizona for a full guide!
- Antelope Canyon is a slot canyon on almost everyone’s Southwest itinerary. But, did you know you can kayak from it? Check out How to Kayak Antelope Canyon from Lake Powell.
- Flagstaff is full of many easy and beautiful hikes. I’ve listed them all out in this guide for you- 9 Short And Easy Hikes In Flagstaff, AZ.
- If you’re wanting to see an impressive waterfall, check out Hiking Cibecue Falls- Everything You Need To Know. Please respect the permit regulations and the land, or else access will get revoked here as well.
Thank you for respecting the wishes of the Navajo Nation residents!
I hope moving forward we can spread light on the main issue – we all need to treat our lands with more respect and take care of them for future generations.
Looking for more? Check out these posts:
- Hiking South Kaibab Trail in the Grand Canyon- Complete Guide
- How to Hike to Humphrey’s Peak- Arizona’s Tallest Peak
- Hike to Kendrick Peak Lookout in Flagstaff, AZ
- 11 Amazing Superstition Mountains Hikes- From A Local
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Greae Content, I really enjoyed it. Thanks for sharing it.
I really wanted to visit this area. i hope it opens up soon. Anyways, thanks for the information.
Hi Grace- I know, such a bummer. It is unfortunate people have to ruin it for others. I’m hoping they open back up as well, and if they do I will update this post and try to remember to message you again! This time of year isn’t really the best to visit anyways (unless it is after a huge monsoon season). Fingers crossed for the future!
This area is now closed to tourists as it should be. This is not public land. It is sacred Tribal land. Outsiders don’t belong there
Yes, it is currently closed as of 4/6/23 and that is why I have the snippet at the very top of the post letting readers know. Whether the tribes choose to open it back up to the public or not is their choice and will be respected.
Wow! Well written with amazing pictures. You just convinced me to plan my next trip to Arizona.
Thank you for reading, Sam! Hope you can plan a trip to AZ soon & enjoy 🙂
This is looking so cool and such a unique place.
Thanks for reading, Zosia!