Tanque Verde Falls

Very nice easy trail and falls. Beware of clothing optional folks. I didn't realize it or read the signs until it was too late. Haha

The falls hike is fun and refreshing on a hot day. Go within a day after a good monsoon rain in the mountains around the falls. Don't wait too long after the rain. The falls and swimming holes diminish quickly. Bring water sandals/shoes for getting in the water and keep them on. I've picked up broken glass shards in the river/wash bottom, not to mention, aluminum cans, some rusted metal bits, and lots of e-cigs. Visitors aren't great about keeping the area clean. I keep my phone and car keys (electronic) in a Ziploc freezer bag to keep them dry. Being some water, sunscreen, and a pair of sunglasses, too. Also, if you try to stay out of the water, you'll be hiking near cacti on some steep slopes. Bring tweezers and a comb, or something, for removing cholla balls and spines from your skin. Stick to the water and you won't need that stuff. When you get to the falls (lower trail), don't dive. The depth is not consistently deep, even after good rains. Have a great swim, though. The pool at the base of the falls can be big. Also, there are some canyoneering opportunities here, if that's your thing. And for whatever it's worth, know that nudists frequent the area. Don't be shocked. During one visit to the area, a nude man was bothering some other visitors. At other times, nudists have covered up when non-nude visitors came into a particular area. So, like any population, you have all types. Typically, you just find families and groups of young people. And fish, lizards, and snakes. As for parking, use the newer parking lot or risk receiving a ticket. And no, there are no bathrooms. The real curse of the area is the hike away from the water back to your vehicle. All that cooling water you enjoyed? You'll be hot and sweating when you reach the parking lot. It's up hill all the way back. Leave near sunset, though, and you won't get fried, plus the sunset view from the parking area is decent.

Beautiful area to hike and take in the views. Some parts are a little more challenging than others so I’d recommend wearing hiking shoes or some sturdy shoes with decent grip. I’d also recommend bringing some water and a snack depending on how long you’re hiking. Even in early December it was hot by late morning. The falls were a little lite on water flow but it was still a good time. Both time and the environment have created some cool looking rock formations. Bring a camera or your phone as there’s some nice places to get some photos.

Fairly easy hike in. Take the main trail in or a sorter route is the trail entrance a little further east up the hill. The main train lets you hike up along the river which is fun and scenic, then take the shorter way back. Pretty chill group at the main falls.

Just went here for the first time this weekend (July 1, 2023) and there was very little water other than a couple little puddles, but I still had a great time! Not sure if I'm just here in the wrong season, but a little disappointed at the lack of a waterfall. Still loved seeing all the cool rocks and hearing the tranquility of the stillness. Definitely wear good hiking shoes since the rocks can be slippery!

Fantastic hike thru slightly challenging terrain ends with a nice view of the tanque verde falls. Further downstream you can climb on rocks that have been made completely smooth by the constant flow of water. Well worth the drive and hike. No facilities other than parking. Hike at your own risk. No cell service once u walk away from the parking area.

One of my favorite hikes! The lower falls are pretty rough hike for an old guy. But the upper falls aren't bad. It is easy to spend the whole day here. The annotations on the trail signs are really accurate!!

My favorite hike in Tucson! The first 1/3 of the way is easy and the rest is hard for anyone over 35 years old and over 250 lbs. I’m nearly 40 and more than 250 lbs so it was hard but the most rewarding hikes around. It’s beautiful, it has cool water, and it’s a great workout. Bring hiking shoes or boots if you have them.