Hiking in Arizona with kids along can sometimes pose a bit of a challenge, but not with this trail. It's short, and offers a bit of shallow water swimming once you reach your destination: Water Wheel Falls.
Named for the water wheel found along the trail, this one mile round trip trek has all the makings of a perfect hiking adventure for the whole family.
Once you reach the first waterfall along the river you'll have a chance to stop and enjoy the fun. In much of the year, there is a small pool at the bottom of the falls where you can cool off.
Have you hiked to Water Wheel Falls yet? We'd love to know!
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The parking area for Water Wheel Falls contains an honor system payment box. The fee to park is $9 per vehicle. NOTE: Water Wheel Falls is not a trail you want to take during Monsoon Season. The trail is in a flash flood area. You should always be aware of the weather forecast before heading out on this trail.
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.
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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.
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.
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!
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.
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At just 2.8 miles long, Hieroglyphic Trail is a short-and-sweet hike in the remote, mystical Superstition Wilderness.
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.
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.
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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:
