Water Wheel Falls Hiking Trail - Hiking area in Payson - , USA

One of my favorite hikes, did it 2-3 times in last 2 years. Easy and not too far from Payson (10-15 minutes) and Phoenix (1-2 hours). If driving in the weekends, make sure to be ready for the parking search. No T-mobile coverage. A few picnic tables available and saw some people fishing. Some areas need you to be in the water to cross the stream so be careful (with your shoes). Pack in and pack out as I saw some plastic and glass bottles. You can jump in the water but with precautions.

For the most part, it was a very easy trail to hike. I had my 8 year old daughter, and my 81 yr old mother made the hike with very little difficulty. Plan on getting wet if you're hiking to the wheel about 2 miles back. The views are just awesome. Was not very crowded on our Sunday. Only 1:30 min out of Phoenix and the heat. Highly recommend for an easy afternoon hike and lunch.

First time visiting this place....love it! Already planning my next trip here with others to spend the entire day here. What an amazing place to relax and listen to the river flowing and birds singing. Many places along the creek to sit and enjoy the water and put your feet in the sand. ❤️🚶‍♂️There is no overnight camping as this is a day use only recreation area. Located less than 20 minutes from downtown Payson.

It was a decent hike. Lots of rocks to climb. People really need to pick up their trash and dog poop. I personally wouldn't swim in the water. The park ranger was checking day tickets so make sure you have one. There is an outhouse/restroom in parking lot to use if needed

Nice easy hike for anyone who wants to get into the woods for a little while. This hike has a well defined trail and a river that follows the trail. If you want to swim in the pockets of water that form along the river at the top just bring some swimming clothes. Saw a few lizards and snakes along the way. Dig friendly hike.

A beautiful place to explore and hike. It starts with a dirt trail and there are a few clearings into the river, very fun to swim and easy if you have kids. When you get to the end of the dirt trail you proceed up and down rocks to more parts of the river. There are many mini pools with clearings to access the river. Extremely beautiful when you get further down. Highly recommend.

Such a nice quick in and out trail. Definitely suitable for the whole family. If you have weak ankles please plan accordingly, there are many rocks that you much climb over, especially in the beginning. Also try to get there earlier than later as it does tend to fill up fast! Overall it’s a great morning and afternoon hike, take plenty of water as there’s no stations!

Love this day use area for a short hike and the many swimming holes and falls. Parking is easy although it can get packed weekends. Many shade areas to keep cool and lots of sand along the hike route to the main water fall. Definitely must wear water shoes as there are soo many water crossings and shallow pools along the way.