Hanging Garden Trailhead

The Hanging Garden Trail offers families a surprisingly lush desert oasis experience with a moderately easy 1.4-mile hike that leads to beautiful cascading waterfalls. This kid-friendly trail rewards young hikers with unique desert vegetation and refreshing water features that make the journey feel like an adventure through a hidden paradise.

• ✓Beautiful cascading waterfalls that create natural pools for kids to explore
• ✓Lush hanging gardens with ferns and vegetation that seem impossible in the desert landscape
• ✓Relatively short distance makes it achievable for elementary-aged children
• ✓Stream crossings that add adventure and excitement to the hike
• ✓Unique opportunity to see desert meets oasis ecosystems

1. 1.Arrive early (right at 6:30 AM opening) during summer months to beat the heat and enjoy the trail before it gets crowded with tour groups
2. 2.Bring water shoes or sandals with good grip - kids will want to play near the waterfall areas and rocks can be slippery
3. 3.Pack plenty of water (more than you think you'll need) and salty snacks, as the desert environment is dehydrating even on this shorter trail
4. 4.The trail can involve some rock scrambling and stream crossings, so dress kids in quick-dry clothing and closed-toe shoes with good traction
5. 5.Download offline maps before you go as cell service in this area can be spotty

Visit in spring (March-May) or fall (September-November) for the most comfortable temperatures and best water flow. Aim for early morning visits any time of year to avoid afternoon heat and crowds. Weekdays are significantly less busy than weekends.

This is a free trail with limited parking at the trailhead, so arrive early or be prepared to park along the roadside. Bring all your own food, water, and supplies as there are no facilities on the trail.

Spring offers the best water flow from snowmelt, making waterfalls more impressive. Summer (June-August) can be extremely hot, so early morning starts are essential. Flash flood risk exists during monsoon season (July-September), so check weather before heading out. Winter may have icy conditions on shaded portions of the trail.

Head back to Page (about 10 minutes away) for family dining options like Big John's Texas BBQ for hearty post-hike meals or Ranch House Grille for burgers and American classics that kids enjoy.