Water Wheel Falls with Young Kids, Payson, Arizona (Secret Trail)

We recently took our kiddos up to Water Wheel Falls. We’ve actually done this hike a few times but never been able to complete it with young kids until we randomly discovered this lesser-known path (kind of a secret back road) that leads you directly to Water Wheel Falls without having to climb boulders.

Water Wheel Falls is fun for all ages with small ponds available, tadpole & crawdad hunting, and bigger waterfall jumps for the braver few. I totally recommend taking this trail if you’re in Payson and if you follow this path, you and your young kids will be able to enjoy all the Water Wheel Falls fun too!

Here’s all you need to know about this secret path!

The path is an easy walking trail and takes 30 minutes from start to waterfall. There is a bit of an incline in a few parts but my 4 & 6-year-old did it just fine!

The funny thing is, there is a map that will take you directly to Water Wheel, on a back road but the map is called “Ellison Creek.” I have linked the map here and have added a few pictures and pointers to assist you in traveling with more certainty to your Water Wheel Falls destination! here is a link to “Ellison Creek Cascades.” aka Water Wheel Falls.

We parked at “Second Crossing,” which is one parking lot past Water Wheel. They ask for $10 cash to park in all the parking lots in Tonto National Forest.

After you park, you can go across the street to the trail marker or go under the bridge. We did both. It’s the same, it’s just preference.

Then follow that map from Ellison Creek Cascade. The beginning of the trail will look like this 👇

Then you’ll reach a part with a closed gate – that is an indicator that the path is closed to vehicles, not to walkers/hikers. Continue on that path up the hill!

You’ll walk for about 15 minutes and then see a row of boulders on your right. 👇

The path behind the boulders is well shaded and will take you right to Water Wheel.

Now don’t get distracted! You can walk on the rocks to get to Water Wheel if you choose, or you can follow the smooth walking path ALL THE WAY DOWN that will lead you to Water Wheel with no rock hopping involved. It’s your choice. Both are great options, just whatever is easier for you and your crew!

Hope this was helpful! Enjoy Water Wheel Falls!