Sardine Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026
Photo Credits (1)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
350 ft
About Sardine Falls
Sardine Falls is a seasonal cascade tucked into Arizona’s high country within the Apache National Forest, managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The falls are most impressive in spring and early summer when runoff and snowmelt swell the stream, creating a peaceful, picture-worthy setting away from busier recreation sites. The easiest access follows the USFS Santa Cruz Trail (Trail #303), making this a rewarding short outing for hikers who enjoy quieter forested reaches of the National Forest. The approach to the falls is an out-and-back route of about 2.4 miles with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain, rated moderate. Forest Service GIS mapping records a 0.68-mile mapped segment of the trail, and the agency lists the route as Santa Cruz Trail #303. If you’re planning a multi-day trip, the nearest developed camping is at the Clifton Ranger District roughly 15.8 km away; otherwise this is best enjoyed as a day hike during the wetter months when the falls are flowing.
The Setting
Sardine Falls sits at 4,311 feet within Apache National Forest, fed by the San Francisco River, in the mountains of Arizona.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate hike follows Santa Cruz Trail (#303), a 2.4-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. Expect 350 feet of elevation gain with grades of 0-5%. The trail is moderately developed (Class 2).
USFS Trail
SANTA CRUZ TRAIL #303
Trail Class
Moderately Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
0.68 miTrail Description
The route to Sardine Falls follows the U.S. Forest Service Santa Cruz Trail (Trail #303). USFS data classifies the trail as Class 2 with a native-material surface (NAT) and a typical grade of 0–5%, making for generally gentle walking on natural tread. The full out-and-back route is about 2.4 miles with approximately 350 feet of elevation gain and is rated moderate in difficulty. Forest Service GIS records list a 0.68-mile mapped trail segment; expect an unpaved dirt/soil surface and minimal constructed tread—suitable for hikers comfortable on natural trails.
What to Expect
Expect a seasonal waterfall that may vary in flow depending on recent weather conditions. The area is likely to be remote and may offer opportunities for solitude and nature observation.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Sardine Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Sardine Falls?
❌ 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 be flowing 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 Apache National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
The area may be remote, so visitors should prepare accordingly. Bring sufficient water, wear appropriate footwear, and be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall. Cell service may be limited.
Current Water Conditions
14 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 102 years of record
8.87 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Clifton hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
The exact location of Sardine Falls is not widely documented, but it is believed to be accessible via a trail in a remote area of Arizona. Visitors should research local maps and trail guides for more precise directions.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear, but visitors may need to park at a nearby trailhead or designated area. Ensure to follow any posted signs or regulations.
Elevation
4311 feet above sea level
Coordinates
33.191745° N, -109.275686° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Check weather conditions before visiting, as the waterfall's flow is dependent on rainfall or snowmelt. Bring plenty of water, as Arizona's climate can be hot and dry.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
With 2.4 miles and 350 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.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
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.
Where to Stay
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
Nearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near Clifton, Arizona
Hot Spring
This intensely mineralized spring near Clifton reaches 138°F, emerging with the highest salinity concentrations of Arizona's do...
Seep
Seep emerges at 95°F near Clifton in Greenlee County, flowing 30 degrees above the 65°F average annual temperature at 3,500 fee...
Clifton Hot Springs
Clifton Hot Springs flows at 102 degrees Fahrenheit in Greenlee County as one of Arizona's most heavily mineralized thermal fea...
Gillard Hot Springs
Gillard Hot Springs emerges at an extreme 180 degrees Fahrenheit on BLM public lands in Greenlee County near Clifton, represent...
Eagle Creek Hot Springs
Eagle Creek Hot Springs flows at 97 degrees Fahrenheit near Morenci in Greenlee County at 3,620 feet elevation, emerging approx...
Warm Spring
Warm Spring flows at 73°F near Morenci in Greenlee County, running 12 degrees above ambient at 3,620 feet elevation in BLM cany...
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Clifton, Arizona on SoakingSprings.
Explore Arizona springsAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions are not well-documented, but visitors may find other hiking trails or natural features in the surrounding area.
Wildlife
The area may host typical Arizona wildlife, such as birds, lizards, and small mammals. Be cautious of potential encounters with snakes or other desert wildlife.
Cities near Sardine Falls
Writing about Sardine Falls? Embed this waterfall on your site for free.