Water Wheel Falls - Arizona's Hidden Swimming Hole -

If you’re looking for a fun hike and a place to cool off, Water Wheel Falls is one of those hidden swimming holes in Arizona. Not hidden in the sense that no one knows about it. It is quite popular. Hidden because it is tucked into the pine-covered rim country near Payson.

This short but adventurous hike along the East Verde River and Ellison Creek leads to a refreshing waterfall and a swimming hole.

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Our First Visit to Water Wheel Falls

The first time we tried to hike Water Wheel Falls Trail, we pulled up to the trailhead on a Saturday and there was no parking available. So, we found a spot just down the road at First Crossing and walked the extra half-mile to the main trailhead. The river views made it worth it, and we discovered a few quiet spots along the way that we might have missed otherwise

Parking for the Trail

From April through October, there’s a $10 parking fee, and it’s cash only. There’s a self-pay station at the Water Wheel day-use area, so it’s a good idea to bring exact change.

If parking is full there (which can happen, especially on weekends), your backup plan is to park at First Crossing Trailhead or Second Crossing Trailhead and enjoy the extra stroll in.

Where is the Trail & How to Get There

Water Wheel Falls Trail is in Payson, Arizona. The drive from Phoenix is just under two hours. Take AZ 87 North to Payson.
You will stay on this road for about 75 miles. It will take you through the town of Payson. Take a right on Houston Mesa Trail. It will be soon after the round about.
Drive 7.5 miles from the campground down until you see the parking lot for Water Wheel trail to your right.
Water Wheel Trail Map

Water Wheel Falls Trail

The Water Wheel hike begins to the left of the parking lot on a dirt path. The dirt path will become rocky. Water Wheel is a very scenic 1.6 mile hike along the Verde River and Ellison Creek in Payson. Since you are hiking over rocks and water I found it very helpful to wear water shoes meant also for hiking.

The Water Wheel Falls hike is short, but don’t let the distance fool you. It’s more of a scramble than a walk.

You’ll be hopping across boulders, navigating uneven terrain, and occasionally getting your feet wet.

There’s no official trail after a certain point, just follow the water upstream and enjoy the adventure.

The dirt path will become rocky. About halfway in, you’ll notice the East Verde river forks. That’s where Ellison Creek joins in. Follow Ellison Creek and you’ll be getting close to the good stuff.

Keep following the water, and eventually you’ll reach the base of Water Wheel Falls. A small but gorgeous waterfall that pours into a cool, deep swimming hole surrounded by smooth boulders and shady trees.

After following the water you will cross the water and walk up the rocks. Keep following the water.

At the end of the hike there is a swimming hole and Ellison Creek Cascade marked by the log with notches in it.

Last time we visited, it was a Friday afternoon in early summer. There were just a few other hikers there, and we were able to enjoy the waterfall and swimming hole in near silence. It felt peaceful and wild, like a secret tucked away in the Arizona high country.

You can climb the rocks beside the waterfall for a higher vantage point. Be careful it can be slippery. There’s a fence at the very top that marks private property, so don’t go beyond it, but the view from up there? Absolutely worth the climb.

The Water Wheel Falls trail is perfect for a summer day trip, especially if you’re coming up from the Phoenix area. Payson is only about 90 minutes away, and the cooler temps and lush forest surroundings are such a refreshing change from the desert heat. You can pack a picnic, bring your swimsuit, and make a day of it.

And if you’re like us and love discovering natural swimming holes and off-the-beaten-path trails, Water Wheel Falls is one of our favorite hikes.