Photo Credits (4)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
350 ft
About Seven Cataracts
Seven Cataracts is a string of seasonal cascades tucked into Bear Canyon in the Santa Catalina Mountains just north of Tucson. These falls are fed by runoff and are most impressive after heavy rains or spring snowmelt; photographers and nature lovers flock to the area for its layered drops and desert-sky vistas. The site sits within the Coronado National Forest and is managed by the U.S. Forest Service, so visitors should follow forest rules and seasonal access guidance. There is no formal trail that leads directly to the cataracts, and many visitors enjoy viewpoints from a roadside pullout along the Catalina Highway. For a short, maintained outing nearby, the USFS Sycamore Reservoir Trail (Trail #39) provides a nearby route through native-surface singletrack. If you plan to camp, Molino Campground is the closest developed site, roughly 4.16 km away, making Seven Cataracts a nice day-visit or short overnight option when conditions are right.
The Setting
Seven Cataracts sits at 5,210 feet within Coronado National Forest, in the high mountains of Arizona.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate hike follows Sycamore Reservoir (#39), a 2.4-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. Expect 350 feet of elevation gain with grades of +8-10%. The trail is developed (Class 3).
USFS Trail
SYCAMORE RESERVOIR #39
Trail Class
Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
0.83 miTrail Description
There is no direct, signed trail to Seven Cataracts; most visitors view the falls from a Catalina Highway pullout. For hikers who want to explore on foot, the Sycamore Reservoir Trail (USFS Trail #39) in the Coronado National Forest is the closest maintained route. The trail is classified as Class 3 on USFS maps, follows primarily native material tread, and has a typical grade of about +8–10% on mapped segments. USFS GIS data shows a mapped trail segment of 0.83 miles, while the commonly reported out-and-back route in this area is about 2.4 miles total with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain; difficulty is generally rated moderate. Expect uneven natural surface and moderate climbing; there is developed camping at Molino Campground about 4.16 km away for those making an overnight trip.
What to Expect
Expect a scenic view of cascading waterfalls, especially after recent rainfall or during snowmelt. The area is surrounded by rugged desert and mountain landscapes, offering a picturesque setting.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Seven Cataracts?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Seven Cataracts?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit is after heavy rains or during snowmelt in the spring. The waterfalls may be dry during prolonged periods of drought.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Watch for flash flood warnings during monsoon season (July through September). Check with Coronado National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Exercise caution when parking along the highway, as traffic can be fast-moving. The terrain around the waterfalls is rugged and steep, so avoid attempting to climb down to the falls. Be aware of flash flood risks during heavy rains.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Tanque Verde hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Seven Cataracts is located along the Catalina Highway (also known as Mount Lemmon Highway). The waterfalls can be viewed from a roadside pullout near milepost 9. There is no formal trail leading to the falls, and they are primarily observed from the highway.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small pullout area along the Catalina Highway near milepost 9 where visitors can park to view the waterfalls.
Elevation
5210 feet above sea level
Coordinates
32.362020° N, -110.726478° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit after a period of rain or snowmelt for the best waterfall flow. Be cautious when parking along the highway, as traffic can be heavy. Bring binoculars or a camera with a zoom lens for better views of the falls.
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With 2.4 miles and 350 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Icy conditions are common in winter — traction cleats are a smart addition.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
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
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Oro Valley-Tucson North by IHG
Hacienda del Sol Guest Ranch Resort
El Conquistador Tucson, A Hilton Resort
Westward Look Wyndham Grand Resort & Spa
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
MOLINO
2.6 miles away · 1 sites
Overview Visitors are drawn to Molino Campground for its group camping area, scenic mountain surroundings and hiking and mountain biking opportunities. While most other campgrounds in the Catalina Mountains are closed in winter, Molino Campground and its picnic area are open in late fall, winter and early spring. The pleasant winter weather at this elevation makes it a great time to visit. Molino Basin is conveniently located 5.5 miles from the base of Mt. Lemmon on the Catalina Highway, and abou
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Windy Point Vista, Sabino Canyon, and Mount Lemmon. The Catalina Highway itself offers numerous scenic viewpoints and hiking opportunities.
Wildlife
The area is home to diverse desert wildlife, including birds, lizards, and occasionally larger mammals such as deer or javelinas.
Cities near Seven Cataracts
Nearby Waterfalls
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