They say beauty comes at a price – a notion that doesn’t just apply to people. There is a swimming hole right here in Arizona that harbors a dark and terrifying secret. Water Wheel Falls Hiking Trail in Payson experienced a flash flood event in 2017 that claimed the lives of 10 people…and it could easily happen again if warnings are not heeded. Here’s everything you need to know about the flash flood at Water Wheel Falls in Arizona.

There is no denying the beauty of Water Wheel Falls. Located near Payson in the heart of Arizona's Rim Country, this waterfall-fed swimming hole is extremely popular among families - and for good reason.
AllTrails/Ron Mummaw
A moderate, 1.6-mile (round-trip) hike is all it takes to reach the falls - an adventure both kids and pets can easily embark on. The scenery along the way is gorgeous; the dense foliage of the Tonto National Forest lines the path, and the rocky landscape resembles something from another planet.
AllTrails/Sarah Brandt
Upon reaching the swimming hole, hikers can jump in and wade in the water to their heart's content. There is also the option to continue upstream to the Ellison Creek Cascades for even more swimming opportunities.
AllTrails/Sarah Brandt

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Perhaps the neatest part of the hike is a tree trunk right next to the falls that has been carved into somewhat of a natural staircase. It allows you to get an up close and personal look at the breathtaking natural wonder, and the experience is truly unforgettable.
AllTrails/Chelsea Santos
Despite the popularity of this bucket-list-worthy destination, however, not everyone is aware that it has a dark side. The swimming hole is located in an extremely flash flood-prone area, and in July 2017, 10 members of a family were killed as a six-foot-tall wall of water swept them away downriver.
Wikimedia Commons/National Weather Service & NOAA
It is assumed that, due to the relatively remote location of the trail, the family was not able to receive the flash flood warning issued for the area. Pictured here is the sign posted in the area during the aftermath of the fatal disaster. All 10 bodies of the deceased were recovered in the days following the flood event.
Wikimedia Commons/National Weather Service & NOAA
This is what the bank of the East Verde River (which the hiking trail runs parallel to) looked like after floodwaters receded: full of large debris and sludge. The moral of the story? Always pay close attention to the day's forecast before heading to a flood-prone area, and heed local warnings as they are issued.
Wikimedia Commons/National Weather Service & NOAA

Get an aerial view of these intriguing falls:

Did you know about the flash flood at Water Wheel Falls in Arizona? Have you been to Water Wheel in Payson? Tell us your thoughts in the comments below, and check out our previous article for an Arizona hike with an equally dark secret (although this time, it’s paranormal).

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What are some hidden gem attractions in Arizona?

Some hidden gem attractions in Arizona include:

  • Tonto National Monument. This area has a ton of wildlife and is strewn with ancient cliff dwellings.
  • Walnut Canyon National Monument. While there are many areas with cliff dwellings, this one lets you get up close.
  • Aravaipa Canyon Wilderness. This is a stunning canyon that only lets 50 people at a time in to preserve its beauty.
  • Coronado Trail Scenic Byway. This is a lovely drive in a part of Arizona most people don’t see. The forests here are gorgeous.

Learn more about these and other hidden gem attractions in Arizona. 

What are the coolest Old West attractions in Arizona?

The coolest Old West attractions in Arizona include:

  • For Bowie National Historic Site. Parts of the original adobe walls are still around for visitors to get a glimpse of history.
  • Oatman. This is an old town on the famous Route 66 which is replete with Old West charm and style.
  • Tombstone. This is the ultimate Old West destination as it was the site of the historical O.K. Corral shootout.
  • Castle Dome Mining Museum. This is not just a museum but a reconstruction of a small town that became submerged in the Colorado River.

Discover more about the coolest Old West attractions in Arizona. 

What are the best remote destinations in Arizona?

The best remote destinations in Arizona include:

  • Blue Ridge Reservoir. You might be surprised that such a lush forest can be found in a desert state like Arizona.
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  • Navajo National Monument. This is deep into the Navajo Reservation and it has several ancient cliff dwellings.
  • Blue Canyon. This is located on the Hopi Reservation and it is rife with amazing rock formations, including those known as hoodoos.

Find out more about the best remote destinations in Arizona. 

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Water Wheel Falls Hiking Trail, Payson, AZ 85541, USA