Contents
Overview
Bridal Wreath Falls is a short hike to a waterfall in the Rincon Mountain District of Saguaro National Park, east of Tucson.
The route to Bridal Wreath Falls begins at Douglas Springs Trailhead, at the easternmost end of Speedway Boulevard. To get to the falls, follow Douglas Spring Trail for two-and-a-half miles, then bear right at Bridal Wreath Falls Trail. Both trails are well-maintained and marked by signs.
Note: Hike statistics were recorded with Gaia GPS app.
Quick Facts
- Distance: 5.8 miles out and back
- Hike Time: 3 hours
- Elevation Gain/Loss: 1025 feet
- Fee: $5 (Valid for 7 Days)
- Dogs: No
- Difficulty: Moderate
Description
Albeit small, Bridal Wreath Falls is a delightful waterfall that is worth paying a visit. Accessed from Douglas Springs Trailhead, the trail to the falls winds its way through a forest of mature saguaros, up a scenic ravine. It offers sweeping views of the Catalina Mountains, Rincon Mountains, and the Tanque Verde Valley below.
It is important to note that Bridal Wreath Falls only flows after recent periods of significant rainfall and Rincon snowmelt. The best chance of seeing it is soon after a fall or winter storm, early spring, and the Monsoon season from mid July to late September.
After a mellow first half mile, the trail begins a steady ascent with moderate steepness for the next two miles. At the junction with Three Tank Trail, the slope becomes more gradual. Soon after, you will reach a junction marked by a sign with trails to Ernie’s Falls, Douglas Spring, and Bridal Wreath Falls. Bear right onto Bridal Wreath Falls Trail and hike a quarter mile to reach the falls.
If you are feeling adventurous, you can scramble up the left side of the falls and scale a 15 foot ledge to get above them. As if it grew there to help with this process, a gnarled tree root provides excellent handholds. To the right of the root, ample footholds can also be found. Once you reach the top, there are more smaller waterfalls and pools to enjoy.
Location
To get to Bridal Wreath Falls from Tucson, head east on Speedway Boulevard. Follow East Speedway all the way to where it curves 90 degrees to the left. Here, turn right into a paved parking lot that holds a couple dozen cars.
Map
Tips
- Water: Carry 3-4 liters of water. Douglas Spring may not be running.
- Best Time to Travel: March through November.
- Safety: Check flash flood warnings and know the forecast before you go. Watch for rattlesnakes.
Photos
Want to hike Tucson’s best trails? Read my Best Hikes in Tucson article or check out our individual Tucson Hiking Guides.
