Pros & cons
PROS
- Shaded grotto waterfall with a clear, swimmable pool
- Lush hanging-garden vibes with ferns and seasonal wildflowers
CONS
- Hard to reach unless on a river trip or Royal Arch Loop
- Slick rock and light scrambling near the falls
Overview
A true canyon oasis, Elves Chasm is a fern-draped grotto where a small waterfall spills into an emerald pool tucked in a cool alcove near Colorado River mile ~117. It’s one of the prettiest stops on the river—remote, soothing, and photogenic.
What You’ll See & Do
- Waterfall and pool: Multi-tiered falls dropping into a deep, clear basin framed by mossy rock.
- Lush micro-oasis: Hanging ferns and flowers like monkeyflowers and columbines thrive beside the cascade, a sharp contrast to the surrounding desert walls.
- Scramble and swim: Expect a short, fun scramble from the river and a refreshing dip. Many visitors climb around the falls and make a careful jump into the pool—use judgment.
Getting There
- By river: Most people visit on Colorado River trips; it’s a classic stop with a brief hike up Royal Arch Creek.
- By land: Advanced backpackers can reach it via the Royal Arch Loop—a very difficult, remote route that requires a Grand Canyon backcountry permit and includes significant scrambling (some accounts note a rappel). This is expert terrain.
What Makes It Special
The hanging-garden feel—ferns, flowers, perpetual shade—turns this tiny grotto into a fairytale pocket in the middle of big desert canyon scenery. It’s frequently cited as one of the most beautiful waterfall spots along the river.
Safety, Etiquette, and Logistics
- Rocks are wet and slick; scrambling is required. Grippy water shoes help.
- No facilities of any kind and no camping at the chasm; this is an undeveloped, fragile site.
- Follow Leave No Trace—stay on durable surfaces and pack out everything.
- Wildlife isn’t the focus here, but the riparian nook can host insects and small amphibians.
Best Time to Visit
- Lighting: Early daylight brings the nicest glow for photos in the shaded alcove.
- Crowds: Popular with river trips; you may share the spot with other boats during the day. The remoteness keeps overall numbers down.
- Seasons: River season windows are ideal; overland travel should be attempted only in appropriate conditions by highly experienced parties.
Where it is
36.1964, -112.4507Elves Chasm
Tips for Elves Chasm
- 01Bring grippy water shoes—the short approach and rocks around the pool are slick.
- 02River trips: budget time to explore beyond the first pool for the best photos.
- 03Overland parties need a backcountry permit and advanced skills; research the Royal Arch Loop thoroughly.
- 04No amenities and no camping at the chasm—pack out all waste.
- 05For photos, aim for early daylight when the alcove is softly lit.
Near Elves Chasm
All places →All trails →
0.4 mi awayRoyal ArchRemote natural arch reached by a serious, technical backpacking loop
2.6 mi awayToltec PointRemote rim promontory with wild, panoramic views and deep solitudeScenic Viewpoint
4.5 mi awayRoyal Arch RouteRemote, technical loop to Royal Arch, Elves Chasm, and the riverChallenging · 32 mi · 48 hr
5.7 mi awayHavasupai PointRemote South Rim perch with big, crowd-free canyon viewsScenic Viewpoint
9.9 mi awayJicarilla PointRemote North Rim overlook with solitude, river views, and a hidden archScenic Viewpoint
11 mi awayNorth Bass TrailThe canyon’s wildest rim-to-river route for expert backpackersChallenging · 14 mi · 20 hr
11.1 mi awayPowell Plateau TrailRemote forested island hike with big Grand Canyon rim viewsChallenging · 16 mi · 12 hr
16.3 mi awayHermit TrailSteep, historic descent to solitude and stonework on the South RimChallenging · 9 mi · 10 hr
