Trail Description

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Regardless of water flow and time of year, the hike to Bridal Wreath Falls beautifully and succinctly captures the Rincon Mountain District's rich floral diversity and varied terrain. In addition to seeing a rare desert waterfall, the rugged trail is highlighted by dozens of cacti, plant and tree species that change rapidly with only modest changes in elevation and distance.

The first half-mile is home to an impressive array of desert vegetation and wildlife. Concentrations of saguaro, barrel cactus, prickly pear, ocotillo and multiple varieties of cholla line the trail. Dawn and dusk are ideal wildlife viewing times, most notably for roadrunners, jackrabbits, coyote and javelina.

The trail is a combination of sandy washes and hard-pack dirt until reaching the Wentworth Trail junction (.6 miles), after which it begins a fairly steady climb into the rockier foothills of the Rincon.

Following the sharp 250' ascent to the Carrillo Trail junction (3,120'), the trail takes on a steady, moderately challenging grade for nearly a mile. Half of this steep segment parallels a stone laden wash to the south, which is a good place to look for seasonal water and wildlife activity.

The trail levels out near the Three Tank Trail junction (3,695', 2 mile mark), passing through what is now a noticeably different landscape. Dense saguaro and cacti communities are gradually replaced by grassy hillsides, creosote, mesquite and yucca. The next .3 miles roll easily to the Bridal Wreath Falls spur trail split (3,740'), with increasingly good views of the district's highest peaks to the southeast. The immediate area is simply intriguing.

The spur trail - flanked by a healthy mix of mesquite, oak, dense brush and cacti - is virtually level, rising just a few dozen feet to the base of the falls.

The trail loses some definition just beyond the hitch rack, after which water flow will determine just how deep into the area you can explore. Dry times will allow the adventurous to climb up the falls, while heavier water flow would make such a trip inadvisable.

Trees, shade and seasonal water create an ideal environment for an extended rest before returning to the trailhead.

Worth Noting

• Africanized Bees inhabit the Bridal Wreath Falls area. Be cognizant of your surroundings as you near the falls.


• The trail, especially within the first mile, sees heavy use. An early start will help avoid the crowds and parking issues.


• When water is flowing, this is an exceptionally beautiful trail.


• Sunglasses, broad-rim hats, suntan lotion and layers of proper clothing (regardless of time of year) are essential. The sun is extremely intense all year round, and quick changes in elevation often require various types of clothing.


• Stay on the trail! While it's tempting to veer off for ideal rest spots and photographic locales, the Park's vegetation is extremely fragile, especially during drier periods. Cacti, snakes and scorpions also make off-trail travel an inadvisable activity.

Directions to Trailhead

The Douglas Spring Trailhead begins at the end of Speedway Blvd. Travel east from Tucson to the end of Speedway Blvd. Parking is limited. Park only in designated spots.

Contact Information

Saguaro National Park Headquarters and Rincon Mountain District
3693 South Old Spanish Trail
Tucson, AZ 85730-5601
520-733-5153

Saguaro National Park - Tucson Mountain District
27 North Kinney Road
Tucson, AZ 85743
520-733-5158