Grand Canyon Gems: Shinumo Creek 

Many of the stops on our Grand Canyon river trips revolve around one key element—water. In the intense desert heat, it’s no surprise that water features are some of the most anticipated and appreciated highlights of the journey. Among these stops, one stands out as a consistent guest and guide favorite: Shinumo Creek.

Tucked within a scenic side canyon, Shinumo Creek is a tributary of the Colorado River. After a short and scenic walk upstream, you’ll be rewarded with a refreshing natural feature: a small but powerful waterfall that pours into a crystal-clear pool.

Most days, the water at Shinumo is sparkling clear—perfect for a rejuvenating dip, especially during the hot summer months. If you’re visiting during monsoon season, this spot becomes even more treasured. During monsoon season, the Colorado river can become pretty silty and this pristine pool offers the ideal place to rinse off the silt, refresh and relax. (Just a reminder: please don’t use any soap, even biodegradable types, in these delicate side streams)

The pool beneath the waterfall is a natural playground. Guests love floating in the cool water, letting the current massage their shoulders, or just laying back and taking it all in. AND there is a little cave that leads around and behind the waterfall allowing you to dive through the waterfall! When it’s time to dry off, the smooth, sun-warmed canyon walls make for perfect lounge spots—some even gently sloped enough to lie down on and soak in the sun.

As if the scenery and swimming weren’t enough, Shinumo Creek offers a charming bonus: a chance to spot one of the Grand Canyon’s native fish species, the Speckled Dace. These little fish are typically 3–4 inches long and can be seen darting around the pool and stream. Sometimes, they’ll curiously nibble at your toes—not painful at all, but a ticklish sensation that guides joke is like a natural fish pedicure.

Whatever you are looking to do at this rafting stop, a cooling swim, a peaceful place to stretch out, or a chance to experience the Canyon’s subtle aquatic wildlife, Shinumo Creek checks all the boxes. On a hot desert day, there’s truly nothing like it.

Check out these other cool spots in the Grand Canyon:

Elves Chasm

Deer Creek Falls