Hike | Wolf Creek Falls | Prescott — Arizona Hikers Guide

With the interconnectedness of the Prescott trail system, this hike can be started at the Groom Creek Trailhead or at the top of Upper Wolf Creek Road. The former seems more scenic as Upper Wolf Creek Road is actually unpaved gravel and intended for vehicles. If you opt for the shorter trip down to the falls, the trail will begin just past the trail marker for Forest Road 384 and its accompanying swing gate. (See directions below.)

The first quarter mile is a beautifully wooded descent down a well-traveled path. There is some loose rock present so do exercise caution. You’ll notice the “384” trail signs posted on the trees. When you reach where the forest is level, the signs will direct you to the left. You’ll want to ignore them and veer right. A felled tree with a cut out portion will confirm that you’re headed in the correct direction. At the fork, you’ll have the option of going left or right in a short loop. The right path is heavily overgrown and since this part of the trail is not heavily trafficked, be prepared to hike through dense brush that may catch on clothes or break skin. I recommend the path to the left, and rather than loop around, come back the same way you traveled.

The trail begins to get a bit more challenging as you’ll gain some elevation and then scramble down to the creek. By mid-spring the creek is almost entirely dry and the falls are diminished to a faint trickle. However, if you continue on the path the way the water would flow, you reach a plateau of rock. A single alligator juniper grows out of the rock and the breathtaking view of Prescott National Forest extends out in front of it. This would make for a perfect picnic or photo spot. If you do choose to loop around, make your way to the right of the large boulder as the footing through the crack in the center is tricky and would require bouldering skills. Once back from the loop, head through the trees again to Wolf Creek Road.