Bridal Wreath Falls

This route climbs through the foothills of the Rincons to get to the base of Bridal Wreath Falls. It can get crowded on weekends, as the falls are a popular destination. Be aware that due to lack of shade, the trail can be hot during the day.

The sun is quite intense in the Arizona desert, so come prepared with adequate sun protection and water.

This trail features great singletrack with a good climb, but you'll have to fight the crowds if you don't get out early enough.

From the trailhead, follow the Douglas Springs Trail. There will be several trail junctions along the way but they are always well marked with signs. Stay on Douglas Springs Trail until about 2.5 miles in. The trail up to this point will have a combination of easy, moderate grades punctuated with a few short, steep climbs. Shade will be at a premium, so make sure that you've brought a good sun hat and plenty of water!

After about 2.5 miles on the Douglas Springs Trail, turn right onto the Bridal Wreath Falls Trail. This trail is short and sweet, bringing visitors up the last 1/4 mile or so to the actual falls. You'll continue to climb, but at a gentler rate than on the Douglas Springs Trail. The last hundred yards takes you through a wash with stones and boulders that you have to navigate around, so use appropriate caution here.

The waterfall is about 25 ft tall and has a small pool at the base, a striking feature in the desert! Take your time to enjoy the water, and to cool off from your ascent. Once you've had your fill, return the way that you came, and descend back to the parking area.

Desert natives dot the landscape, like Joshua Trees, cholla, and the saguaros that give the park its name.