Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
300 ft
About Minnehaha Waters
Tucked into Prescott National Forest and managed by the U.S. Forest Service, Minnehaha Waters is a lesser-known Arizona waterfall that rewards hikers looking for a quieter outing. The falls are reached via the USFS Wagoner Trail (Trail #0213), a modest route that keeps the experience intimate rather than crowded. With a 2.0-mile round-trip and about 300 feet of elevation gain, this hike is a manageable half-day getaway for those comfortable on moderate terrain. The setting is inviting and unpretentious: the Wagoner Trail’s native-surface tread and gentle grades lead you to the water without a lot of fanfare, making it a great choice for hikers who prefer simple natural scenery to high-traffic viewpoints. The USFS trail classification (Class 2) means you can expect some uneven footing and brief scrambling, so bring sturdy shoes and a sense of adventure for the short approach to the falls.
The Setting
Minnehaha Waters sits at 4,921 feet within Prescott National Forest, fed by the Agua Fria River, in the mountains of Arizona.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate hike follows Wagoner (#0213), a 2.0-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. Expect 300 feet of elevation gain with grades of 5-8%. The trail is moderately developed (Class 2).
USFS Trail
WAGONER #0213
Trail Class
Moderately Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
12.19 miTrail Description
Out-and-back on USFS Wagoner Trail (Trail #0213). Length: 2.0 miles round-trip. Elevation gain: ~300 feet. Difficulty: Moderate. Surface: NAT (native material). Typical grade: 5–8%. Class: 2 (simple scrambling/uneven footing possible). Trail type: out-and-back. Managed by: U.S. Forest Service, Prescott National Forest. Expect native singletrack with moderate grades and some sections of rough footing; appropriate for hikers comfortable with short stretches of scrambling.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a peaceful and scenic waterfall surrounded by desert landscapes. The flow of the waterfall may vary significantly depending on recent rainfall or snowmelt. Wildlife sightings are possible, and the area is known for its natural beauty.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Minnehaha Waters?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Minnehaha Waters?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are typically the best times to visit, as the waterfall is more likely to have water flow during these seasons.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Watch for flash flood warnings during monsoon season (July through September). Check with Prescott National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Visitors should be cautious of flash floods, especially during monsoon season. The trail may be poorly marked, so navigation tools are recommended. Carry sufficient water and avoid hiking during extreme heat.
Current Water Conditions
Based on a USGS gauge 19 miles away
1 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 55 years of record
2.93 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a regional waterway. Conditions at the falls may differ, especially after local rain.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Minnehaha Waters is located in a remote area of Arizona. Access typically requires navigating dirt roads and possibly hiking through rugged terrain. Visitors should research specific directions and road conditions before attempting to visit.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is uncertain and may be limited to roadside pull-offs or small dirt lots near the trailhead.
Elevation
4921 feet above sea level
Coordinates
34.201974° N, -112.422669° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water, as the trail can be rocky and exposed to the sun. Check weather conditions before visiting, as flash floods can occur in the area. Cell service may be limited, so plan accordingly.
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With 2.0 miles and 300 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Where to Stay
Super 8 by Wyndham Wickenburg AZ
Los Viajeros Inn
Black Canyon Campground And Cabins
My Place Suites
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
HORSETHIEF CABIN
8.0 miles away · 1 sites
Overview Horsethief Cabin is situated in a clearing of Ponderosa pines at an elevation of over 6,000 feet in the Bradshaw Mountains of the Prescott National Forest. The original cabin was built in 1939 as quarters and a staging area for Forest Service crews charged with protecting the southern end of the Bradshaw Mountains against wildfires. The cabin was remodeled and modernized over the years, but eventually fell into disuse by the 1980s. The historic structure now enjoys a second life as a ren
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions may include other desert hiking trails and scenic viewpoints in the surrounding area.
Wildlife
The area is home to desert wildlife such as lizards, birds, and possibly snakes. Visitors should remain alert and respect the natural habitat.
Cities near Minnehaha Waters
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