Horton Spring gushes out of the Mogollon Rim about 30 feet above the streambed, forming the headwaters of Horton Creek and a series of small cascades along the trail near Payson. The spring-fed flow is reliable year-round.
At 30 ft, it stands above roughly 24% of the 775 documented falls in this guide.
The falls are fed by Horton Creek. You'll find it in Gila, Arizona. It is protected within Tonto National Forest.
This is a moderate hike waterfall: a longer day hike, roughly one to several miles each way. Plan for a moderate hike; sturdy shoes, water, and a little time on the trail are worth bringing. The walk to the main viewpoint runs about 6.4 miles round trip. Base a visit out of Payson, the closest town.
When to go: spring. Expect the strongest flow in spring and after big storms, with a quieter trickle by late summer; confirm current conditions with the land manager before committing to the drive.
