Water Wheel Falls Near Payson: An Awesome Summer Hike
Summer in Arizona is all about beating the heat with trips to the north and enjoying water hikes. Hiking near Payson, Arizona and the Mogollon Rim is one of my favorite places to do this, and Water Wheel Falls is a great option. I love sharing my favorite hikes with all of you- just please remember to be responsible, appreciate our state, and leave no trace.
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Where is Water Wheel Falls?
Water Wheel Falls is located in Northern Arizona near Payson, Arizona and the Mogollon Rim. If you are not familiar with the Mogollon Rim, it is the drop-off point of the Colorado Plateau that separates the desert from a more foresty landscape. It’s the perfect place for us desert rats to escape in the summer. This trail is 18 minutes north of Payson, AZ. It takes 1.5-2 hrs driving from central Phoenix, which isn’t too bad at all!!
What Time Is Best to Visit Water Wheel Falls
Time of the year
This is a popular trail in Summer from Memorial Day to Labor Day. You can do this trail any time of year, but I would be cautious with hiking during or after rain, as this trail can be slick.
Time of the Day
Any time of day is perfect to hike this trail. It’s not one where you have to see it at sunrise or sunset, though it would be beautiful. I did it late morning.
NEED SOMEWHERE TO CAMP??
I’ve created a FORTY PAGE GUIDE outlining all the best free and paid campsites in Northern Arizona, including the Payson area.
It can be hard to spend hours researching campsites, trying to figure out were they’re located, what they look like, the price, and the amenities. With my guide, those days are over! I give you everything you need to know, with links to my Google Maps AND it’s in a PDF so you can access it any time!
Starting Water Wheel Falls
Parking At the TRailhead
You won’t have a hard time plugging in “Water Wheel Falls Trailhead” into Apple or Google Maps. The parking lot has trail signs and vault toilets. It can get very busy and parking is NOT allowed on the side of the road, although people try to do it. Be respectful of the National Forest that needs room in case of emergencies.
You do need to have a Tonto Pass to park here (trailhead info HERE). These are not available to purchase on-site. I always have my America The Beautiful Annual National Park Pass which covers for this.
What is the Trail Like?
Generally, this trail is pretty easy, but there are a few considerations. It starts off in a forested area alongside the creek. You will then transition to a rocky surface as shown in the photo below. We took my mid-fifties semi-active in laws with us and they did fine, just have to take it a little more slowly. Kids do great. It is also dog-friendly. This photo depicts the first creek crossing that involves jumping over a few rocks if you don’t want your feet wet. This area is beautiful.
Water Wheel Falls
Gear to Hike Water Wheel Falls
Because there are creek crossings and potentially slick rock, I think it’s important to address proper gear suggested for this hike. I realize it takes years to build up quality gear, but boy does it make a difference. As shown below, I ALWAYS suggest Teva Hurricane Sandals. I have been using them for years and never want to use anything else. Teva > Chaco. You will also need sun protection- and by this I mean a wide-brimmed hat and/or a sunshirt. I was not wearing one in this hike, but I like to always wear one now. THIS is my favorite UPF sunshirt. I am wearing THIS wide-brimmed hat in the photo below. Because rock can be slippery, I suggest carrying a small, light-weight pack like this REI Flash 22.
Check out my Water Hike Gear Locker Below!
Features on Water Wheel Falls Trail
First Waterfall
Within the first 0.4 miles or so, you’ll be climbing on smooth rock within a canyon. That canyon creates the first waterfall. You may choose to get in the creek before you start climbing so you can swim up to it. Otherwise, you will be able to see it from a top perspective, which is what I saw. This is RIGHT BEFORE your first creek crossing.
Use the AllTrails app to guide you while hiking on this trail to prevent getting lost.
Water Wheel Falls- The Destination
It is generally easy to follow the trail, but again I suggest using AllTrails. The trail will turn back to dirt within a forested area and wrap to the right until you reach the actual water wheel falls. It’s a beautiful little water fall with a swimming hole. It is usually busy, unless you go early or late in the day. It’s the perfect temperature to enjoy on hot summer days, however!
Summary
Water Wheel Falls is a great hike for dogs, adults, and kids. Whether you choose to hike, swim, or both, you’ll have a blast and a respite from the hot desert weather. Make sure to follow me on Instagram for more Northern Arizona Adventures.
