If you're not afraid of a moderate-level trail and the dryness of Arizona, Tanque Verde Falls Beach is a great pick for a hike to a sometimes-there waterfall. Tanque Verde beach is a hidden gem in AZ and the waterfall is a stunning spot to hike to and enjoy, no matter if it's wet or dry! Why not add this to your bucket list for a future adventure?
Have you seen the beauty that is Tanque Verde Falls Beach? This hidden gem in AZ is next to an equally beautiful waterfall.
When the trail is at its best and the weather is just right, the waterfall at Tanque Verde beach is definitely one of Arizona's best scenes. Out here, waterfalls are a treasure.
advertisement
When the waters are low and the waterfall is dry, Tanque Verde beach is just as beautiful for hiking, though you'll find it to be much drier.
This little bit of sandy beach makes for a great relaxation spot when the water is just right.
But just as a fair warning, know that this is an AZ nude beach and there are nude sunbathers here on occasion.
Adventure through the one-mile loop trail and enjoy a bit of climbing over rocks to get to this hidden gem in AZ. It's rated as moderate, and isn't too bad if you have good footing and shoes.
Make sure to stick to the path and be cautious of the weather and the terrain. Don't stray far from the path and bring everything out with you that you brought in.
advertisement
Be sure to have a good trail guide to reference with you as well as a ton of water!
Have you ever been to Tanque Verde Beach? What's your favorite hidden gem in AZ? Tell us in the comments!
With over 2.9 million acres, there are countless areas and ways to explore Tonto National Forest. It's the 9th largest national forest in the country, and it includes the varied landscapes of the desert, mountains, forests, and the Mogollon Rim. Stretching between Phoenix and the San Carlos and Fort Apache Indian Reservation, it's a little overwhelming to figure out where to explore first. Today, I am going to tell you about a waterfall hike in Arizona you may want to try in Tonto National Forest. This gorgeous trail will give you a good taste of nature in the Payson area.
advertisement
Located near Payson, the 2.5-mile See Spring Trail is a moderate-rated trek in the Tonto National Forest. To get here, you must take forest roads so make sure you have a vehicle that can make it to the trailhead. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended.
This out-and-back trail has an elevation gain of 492 feet making it a challenge in certain areas. The incline is steady on the way up.
Along the way, you'll cross over a stream several times. You will certainly want to have proper footwear on such as waterproof hiking boots or waterproof shoes.
You'll also encounter small waterfalls along this trail. Just hearing the flow of water is always music to my ears on a waterfall hike!
The closer to the summit you go, the terrain becomes a little bit rocky, so watch your footing!
While this hike is challenging in some ways, it's still a great family-friendly hike. Just go slow and enjoy the scenery along the way.
While the stream and waterfall are lovely natural features on this trail, don't forget to marvel at the canopy of trees towering above you on this hike!
advertisement
Are you ready for this waterfall hike in Arizona? What other waterfalls around the state do you enjoy chasing? Let us know! For information on the See Spring Trail, head to AllTrails. You should also download the AllTrails+ app to guide you on the trail.
If you're in search of a short-and-sweet adventure that still pays off nicely, check out Hieroglyphic Trail near Apache Junction. How long is the Hieroglyphic Trail in Arizona? This quick-and-easy, 2.8-mile hike only takes about an hour to complete but features a gorgeous waterfall reminiscent of trails double or even triple the length. If you didn't know there are some truly epic waterfalls in Arizona, well, you're about to learn - in the best way possible, of course. Let's check out this Superstition Mountain hike with a waterfall.
advertisement
At just 2.8 miles long, Hieroglyphic Trail is a short-and-sweet hike in the remote, mystical Superstition Wilderness.
With a gradual uphill climb of just over 550 feet, the difficulty is rated as moderate.
During the spring, eye-popping wildflowers can be seen on either side of the path.
Their vibrant blooms offer a stark contrast to the relatively monochromatic desert landscape, ensuring boredom isn't even a possibility. It's like you've stepped into an incredible landscape photo and it doesn't feel real most of the time.
Along the way, you'll see a little bit of everything.
Towering Saguaro cacti, small pools of crystal-clear water, and many more natural features are absolutely incredible to look at. You know... things that make the desert idyllic.
Upon reaching the highest elevation, prepare to marvel at panoramic views that seem to extend infinitely into the distance.
You can practically see all of Apache Junction from up here! The view is awesome, and well worth the trek.
advertisement
Ancient petroglyphs cover the rocks, depicting various animals and other sacred symbolism.
It's truly incredible to not only ponder what the historical significance of this area might have been but see it with your own eyes, as well.
Approaching the Hieroglyphic Trail waterfall is like stepping into an enchanting tropical oasis.
The rate of flow depends on recent rainfall totals, but even just a trickle is enough to set the scene.
Use caution near the falls, as the rocks are slippery when wet.
A bit of scrambling is necessary, so make sure to wear shoes with sufficient grip. Bring water, too! Just because you end up around water doesn't mean you don't need to stay hydrated, especially in the sun.
Use caution near the falls, as the rocks are slippery when wet.
A bit of scrambling is necessary, so make sure to wear shoes with sufficient grip. Bring water, too! Just because you end up around water doesn't mean you don't need to stay hydrated, especially in the sun.
advertisement
For a visual tour of this absolutely breathtaking little desert oasis, check out this amazing video that'll make you feel like you're there:
Have you ever hiked the Hieroglyphic Trail in Arizona? If so, tell us all about your experience! What are your favorite natural wonders in Arizona? Let us know in the comments!
Are there any restaurants, businesses, or other attractions in Arizona you think the world should know about? Head over to our nomination page and give them a shoutout — you just might see your submission featured in an upcoming article!
Arizona is such a beautiful state with some of the most amazing natural wonders in the world. If you want to explore some of them up close, plan a trip to hike some of these wonderful places on these wonderful hiking trails in Arizona that belong on your hiking bucket list: