Tanque Verde Falls Tucson AZ
A stunning desert oasis in Tucson, AZ, featuring cascading waterfalls and natural swimming holes after rainfall.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Waterfalls are at their best
Tanque Verde Falls Tucson AZ
Best Time
Waterfalls are at their best
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning desert oasis in Tucson, AZ, featuring cascading waterfalls and natural swimming holes after rainfall.
"A beautiful trail with breathtaking waterfalls and a great spot to cool off."
Check Water Levels First
Water flow is seasonal. Check recent conditions before your visit to avoid a dry riverbed experience.
Sturdy Footwear is Key
The trail involves rock scrambling and riverbed navigation. Wear shoes with good grip.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Cascading Falls
Along the riverbed
Witness the beauty of multiple waterfalls cascading down rocky formations, especially after rainfall.
Riverbed Scrambling
The main trail
Navigate the rocky riverbed, offering a unique and adventurous hiking experience.
Natural Swimming Holes
Pools along the falls
Cool off in natural pools and 'jacuzzi' like areas, perfect for a refreshing dip.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Water Flow
Trail Difficulty and What to Pack
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Water Levels First
Water flow is seasonal. Check recent conditions before your visit to avoid a dry riverbed experience.
Sturdy Footwear is Key
The trail involves rock scrambling and riverbed navigation. Wear shoes with good grip. +1
Hydration is Crucial
Tucson heat is intense. Bring more water than you think you'll need. +1
Use Navigation Apps
AllTrails is recommended for trail details and navigation. +1
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Water Levels First
Water flow is seasonal. Check recent conditions before your visit to avoid a dry riverbed experience.
Sturdy Footwear is Key
The trail involves rock scrambling and riverbed navigation. Wear shoes with good grip. +1
Hydration is Crucial
Tucson heat is intense. Bring more water than you think you'll need. +1
Use Navigation Apps
AllTrails is recommended for trail details and navigation. +1
Go Early to Avoid Heat
Starting your hike before 9 AM is highly advised due to extreme heat.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Tanque Verde Falls for its beautiful desert scenery and potential for refreshing swims, especially after rain. However, many note that water flow is highly dependent on recent precipitation, leading to disappointment for some who found a dry riverbed. The hike involves significant rock scrambling, which adds to the adventure but can be challenging.
"Would rate 5 stars if it had falls when we visited...Dusty and dirty we became. Scrambled for a few hours in the riverbed. Some nice boulder opportunities and potential for enjoying h2o after a good rain or two. Always exercise safety and be aware that water levels can change quickly in these settings."
Anthony T
"Great spot!! There's water for your pet to play in, and it isn't too difficult of a hike either. Definitely recommend"
Dillon Wells
"Nude hiking day June 21! Next time for more Open minded ppl. I'll be there 6am."
Richard Dibble
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common trailhead is the Tanque Verde Falls Lower Trailhead. Type 'Tanque Verde Falls Lower Trailhead' into Google Maps for directions. The parking lot is on the left, and the trail starts across the road to the right.
Yes, Tanque Verde Falls is located in the vicinity of Mt. Lemmon, making it a popular destination for those exploring the area.
Using navigation apps like Google Maps and AllTrails is highly recommended to find the correct trailhead and trail. +1
Yes, there is a parking lot available at the Lower Trailhead. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot.
Yes, Tanque Verde Falls is accessible via Redington Pass, offering a scenic route to the trailhead.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, there is no admission fee to hike to Tanque Verde Falls. However, it's always a good idea to check for any potential permit requirements or changes in access policies.
Tanque Verde Falls is an outdoor natural attraction and is typically accessible during daylight hours. However, due to extreme heat, it's best to visit early in the morning.
As of recent information, there is no specific entrance fee for Tanque Verde Falls. It's a natural area within the Coronado National Forest. +1
Visitors should be aware of high heat warnings and practice Leave No Trace principles. Water levels can change rapidly, so exercise caution.
Yes, monsoon season is often the best time to visit as it increases the chances of seeing flowing waterfalls. However, be aware of flash flood risks.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The hike to Tanque Verde Falls is approximately 1.9 to 3 miles round trip, depending on the specific trail and how far you explore. +1
The hike is generally rated as moderate due to rock scrambling and navigating the riverbed. Some sections can be challenging. +1
While some sections are manageable for older children, the rock scrambling can be challenging for younger kids. The Upper Tanque Verde Trail is considered more gentle and kid-friendly.
Yes, there are natural pools and areas where you can swim, especially when there is water flowing. It's a great spot to cool off. 
Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good traction. Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended due to the desert heat. +1
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the cascading waterfalls, the unique rock formations in the riverbed, and the desert landscape. The 'secret room' and 'jacuzzi' areas also offer unique shots.
Absolutely. The combination of water, rocks, and desert flora provides excellent opportunities for landscape photography, especially during golden hours.
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light, reducing harsh shadows and enhancing the natural beauty. Consider the monsoon season for dramatic skies.
Drone usage is subject to regulations within national forests. It's best to check with the Coronado National Forest for current drone policies before flying.
Explore along the riverbed to find various angles of the falls and pools. The 'secret room' and 'jacuzzi' are unique spots to photograph. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Ensure you bring plenty of water and snacks, and always supervise children closely, especially near water. 💧 Water Seekers & Swimmers
Be aware that water levels can change rapidly, and flash flood warnings should be taken seriously. 🚶♀️ Adventurous Hikers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Water Flow
When water is present, it creates a series of beautiful waterfalls and natural pools. These swimming holes, sometimes referred to as 'jacuzzis,' are a major draw for those looking to cool off in the Tucson heat.
+2 However, it's crucial to be aware of flash flood risks, especially during monsoon storms, as water levels can rise rapidly. Navigating the Trail and Difficulty
While the main Tanque Verde Falls trail is rated moderate, some sources suggest the Upper Tanque Verde Trail as a more gentle and kid-friendly option, offering quick access to water at the bottom with less foot traffic and scrambling.
Best Practices for a Safe and Enjoyable Visit
Practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural beauty of the area.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit