💦 Waterfall Plunge Pool
🟡 Moderate $8 Tonto Daily Pass
🌊 About Water Wheel Falls / East Verde River
A confluence of the East Verde River and Ellison Creek with whirlpools, small waterfalls, and a deep pool below a 50-ft cascade at an old mill wheel site.
📋 Visit Details
Entry Fee
$8 Tonto Daily Pass
Water Temperature
💧 Cold, clear
Water Type
River cascades & pools (East Verde River)
Managed By
US Forest Service (Tonto National Forest)
County
Gila County, Arizona
Access Difficulty
🟡 Moderate
🗺️ Getting There
Address / Access Point:
Houston Mesa Rd, ~10 mi north of Payson
Access Notes:
Short-to-moderate hike from Second Crossing parking area, includes rock scrambling and a creek crossing
✅ Before You Go — Checklist
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Check current water conditions — especially after recent rain
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Save GPS coordinates offline before leaving — cell service may be limited
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Bring cash or card for entry: $8 Tonto Daily Pass
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Pack reef-safe sunscreen, dry bag, water shoes and plenty of drinking water
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Tell someone where you are going before heading to a remote location
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Pack out everything you bring in — leave no trace