WORLD'S HIGHEST FOUNTAIN – A CELEBRATION OF WATER IN THE DESERT
At its full height of 560 feet, the fountain in the center of Fountain Hills is higher than the Washington Monument. It is also ten feet taller than Notre Dame Cathedral, 110 feet higher than the Great Pyramid of Cheops in Egypt and three times as high as Old Faithful Geyser in Yellowstone Park.
The white plume of the world famous fountain is visible far beyond Fountain Hills, the town that has taken its name from the landmark. It can be seen from as far away as the Superstition Mountains, Carefree and even from jets. That is exactly what its designers intended. It was created in the 1970s to attract tourists and potential property buyers.
Today, the fountain is the focal point for community celebrations and the pride of its residents. In years past, fireworks exploded around its lofty heights and during the Great Fair, hot air balloons drift over its lake. If you happen to visit on March 17, you’ll see the fountain transform to St. Patrick’s Day green.
The pump is powered by three 500 HP pumps which force 70,000 gallons of reclaimed water per minute through an 18-inch nozzle specially designed and built by Switzerland’s Institute of Hydraulic Research.
It may seem surprising to have such a magnificent spout in an arid area, but this fountain is a celebration of water where it is most appreciated - in the middle of the desert.
Brilliant Night Illumination
At night The Fountain becomes a jet of gold and white against the starry desert sky when lighted. Golden spotlights situated in the base of the jetspray send glowing illumination up the first 300 feet of the column where it blends with a contrasting silver-white light on the upper portion. This light comes from powerful mercury vapor lamps located along the lakeshore.
The striking effect of lights and spray make The Fountain an inspiring "night sight" to see in Fountain Hills.
The Fountain - A Thing of Beauty
The developer of Fountain Hills constructed The Fountain and surrounding lake to create a thematic centerpiece for a community designed for beauty throughout.
Since The Fountain first went into operation on December 15, 1970, it has been visited by thousands of people from all walks of life from all over the country. Almost without exception, it has been a source of acclaim for its aesthetic values most of all.