When summer brings extraordinarily hot temperatures, we need ways to cool off. Little America is home to Flagstaff’s best outdoor pool, surrounded by 500 acres of ponderosa pine forest and serviced daily by poolside attendants. Alternatively, if you want a more adventurous way to cool down, there are many incredible swimming holes just a short drive away—some are well-known among locals, others are a little more off the beaten path. This blog is your guide to all the best places to go if you want to cool off with a swim in one of our beautiful natural bodies of water. All are within driving distance of Little America and are suitable for a day trip.
Slide Rock: 23 mi, 33 min drive
Slide Rock Swim Area is within Slide Rock State Park in Oak Creek Canyon. This hidden gem is in the heart of nearby Sedona, and the journey to get there is arguably one of the most scenic drives in America. Slide Rock is a unique and fun place to cool off that the whole family will enjoy, with plenty more recreational activities to explore nearby.
Grasshopper Point: 28 mi, 43 min drive
Another short drive away is Grasshopper Point, which has rocks that are perfect for jumping from. There’s also a nearby picnic area, making it a super convenient place to sit and enjoy your lunch or a quick snack. It’s dog-friendly, has a clean restroom and parking lot, and is a superb hidden gem overall. The water might be a little chilly, but it will feel refreshing with temperatures as high as they get!
Wet Beaver Creek: 48 mi, 51 min drive
Wet Beaver Creek is a peaceful river sanctuary with many trees to shade you from the sun. The shallow water is calm and ideal for swimming. There is an easily accessible day-use area and hiking trails aplenty in the surrounding forest.
Fossil Creek: 94 mi, 2 hr 55 min drive
Fossil Creek has an incredible waterfall and the most idyllic swimming hole. They have a permit system to regulate the number of visitors throughout the day. It’s a 1-mile hike to the falls, with incredibly scenic views the whole way. The creek is a popular spot for cooling off, and for good reason! It’s a bit further of a drive, but worth it if you’re down for a little road trip.
West Clear Creek: 59 mi, 1 hr 17 min drive
Bull Pen Swimming Hole at West Clear Creek is a well-known location among locals, and it is a great place to cool off. The creek provides many other spots ideal for swimming close by, so feel free to wander and explore the area. There are lots of great hikes and campgrounds here as well!
Colorado River @ The Grand Canyon: 90 mi, 1 hr 34 min drive
Grand Canyon National Park is just an hour and a half drive from the hotel, and at its base lies one of Arizona’s best natural swimming locations: the Colorado River. If you’re up for a challenge, take the strenuous hike down to access it, or if you’re in the mood for something more adventurous, take a rafting trip through the canyon. Numerous local rafting companies will guide you on the waters, ensuring a safe but epic journey. This swimming hole is a relatively easy drive from our location in Flagstaff, so don’t hesitate to make the trip and check this place off your bucket list!
Of course, if you find you’re too tired to drive or just in the mood to not go anywhere, no problem, we’ve got you covered. We’ve got our own swimming pool on the property, which is open for guest use every day from 8 am to 10 pm. It’s surrounded by our 500 private acres of ponderosa pines, making you feel connected to nature without having to go far from your room. Plus, we have poolside dining available, so you can indulge yourself while you relax. Our pool is easily the most convenient option if you’re in need of a swim or just a bit of shade!