Lava Falls, Grand Canyon Colorado River

For more excitement and thrills than a regular hike, tourists flock to the Grand Canyon National Park's Lava Falls to witness thousands of years of volcanic remains, as well as sometimes seeing something new tumbling inside of its cascading waters. These head down through the Colorado River, making it a dangerous, but adventurous trip.

Lava Falls in the Grand Canyon National Park flows into the Colorado River. It is steeped in volcanic history, and from time to time, debris from the upper levels due to activity around the upper cinder cone near Vulcan's Throne has been seen by visitors, tumbling over the falls making it very hazardous. However, it is a popular place of intrigue and excitement.

The falls are best accessed either via a 4 x 4 or on foot along the many trails, both of which are difficult routes. In fact, it is always best to check with the local visitor center before departing regarding safety issues.

When hiking there, the terrain is rough and barren. It is necessary to climb down vertically to Vulture Valley's bottom, and climb upwards over a ridge before reaching the Colorado River. A bit further along and the sound of the falls are hard to miss. In fact, the falls creates intense rapids that can be seen from the cliff tops.

Before 1939, the falls were non-existent. However, debris from the nearby Prospect Canyon was loosened during volcanic activity from the nearby cinder dome. In fact, as recently as six years ago, debris was seen tumbling over the falls, resulting from further volcanic movements. However, a visit to the falls is rewarding, if not dangerous.