Jason knows my love language. For Mother’s Day this year, he skipped the flowers and chocolates and went straight for the outdoor adventure with a hike to Cibecue Falls.
Cibecue Falls is a rather unknown hike in Arizona, which is surprising given its beauty. We have lived here for 16 years and didn’t even know it existed until recently.
It took some planning to make the trip happen, but I’m so glad we had a chance to visit this incredible place. I’m here to share everything we learned in hopes that it will inspire and help as you plan your trip!
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Tips for hiking to Cibecue Falls
Table of Contents
- How to purchase a Cibecue Falls access permit
- How to get to Cibecue Falls
- What to bring when hiking Cibecue Falls
- Cibecue Falls Trail information
- Amenities near Cibecue Falls
- The best time to visit Cibecue Falls
- Things to note when hiking Cibecue Falls
How to purchase a Cibecue Falls access permit
A Cibecue Falls Access permit is required in order to hike to the falls. You will need to purchase and print the permit online prior to your trip. The self-pay stations are no longer available on-site.
I do not believe that there is a limit to the number of permits issued each day so you shouldn’t run into any problems obtaining one.
The cost of a permit is $45 per person. There is no longer a discount available for children.
It is a little expensive, however, it really helps preserve the beauty of the area. It limits the number of hikers and those who are willing to pay for a permit tend to be more respectful.
The permit also allows access to the Apache Falls. These falls are located in the same vicinity.
As you exit off Hwy 60/AZ-77 and head to Cibecue Falls, you’ll see a turn to the left. Follow that road and drive under the bridge for about 3/4 miles until you reach Apache Falls.
You may also fish and camp for one night in one of the four Salt River Campgrounds with the permit.
How to get to Cibecue Falls
If you’re coming from the Valley, the trailhead is located about 40 miles past Globe.
As you come to the Salt River Canyon on Hwy 60/AZ-77, you’ll follow a series of steep switchbacks down to the base of the canyon.
You’ll cross the bridge over the Salt River then to your left you’ll see a turn-off onto a gravel road. As a side note, there is usually a vendor set up here selling homemade Navajo bread for $5, so come hungry!
Keep to the right and as you follow the road you’ll pass the Mild to Wild Salt River Rafting tour on the right (which I would love to come back and experience!). You’ll also most likely see a sheriff’s vehicle parked here to check for permits.
At this point, you will continue straight and follow the road for about 4.4 miles. Keep in mind, the road is quite rough and filled with bumps and potholes.
We only had our Honda Civic and we averaged about 5 mph, so it took us about 45 minutes just to get to the trailhead. I would highly recommend a high-clearance vehicle, it will get you there much faster!
The road is one lane with sheer cliffs on one side and not much room to pass if a car is coming. Just use caution and take your time.
Despite the bumps, the drive is gorgeous as the road snakes alongside Cibecue Creek. We rolled the windows down and soaked in the spectacular scenery.
After 4 miles you’ll come to a barrier just before the river. If you don’t have a high-clearance vehicle, park on the right just before the barrier and walk across the river.
If you do have a high clearance vehicle you can continue to drive across the river to reach the parking lot on the right where the trailhead is located.
What to bring when hiking Cibecue Falls
This is a water hike. You will be crisscrossing the river multiple times, as well as scrambling up and down boulders, so it is important to wear lightweight durable hiking water shoes.
I loved all the river crossings, not only does it cool you off on a hot day, but it’s fun hopping across the rocks!
The water is very clear, and fortunately, the rocks aren’t slippery. However, if you’re nervous about falling, a hiking pole would be helpful. It will help keep your footing, especially when crossing at parts where the river is rushing fast.
The deepest the river got when we crossed was just below the knee, but you’ll still want to wear clothes that you won’t mind getting wet. Many people hike in just their swimsuits, I am not that brave!
I would recommend packing dry shoes and clothes to leave in your car to change into afterward.
Be sure to pack sunscreen and plenty of water during the summer months. It would also be smart to pack a basic first aid kit. There is no cell service and it is a pretty remote hike.
Cibecue Falls Trail information
The trail is 2 miles to the base of the falls as it follows upstream along Cibecue Creek.
You’ll come to your first river crossing when you see a cable stretching across the river.
There will be multiple river crossings after this point, I lost count of just how many! You’ll know when to cross because the trail will just dead end, and then it will continue on the other side.
The hike itself boasts some of the most impressive scenery in all of Arizona. I knew the falls would be stunning, but I wasn’t prepared for just how much I would love the hike itself!
And if you love this hike, be sure to check out the underrated Water Wheel Falls Hike as well.
The trail is flat without much elevation gain. However, I wouldn’t recommend bringing really young children, due to the boulder scrambling and multiple river crossings.
As you approach the falls, the canyon will begin to narrow and you will hear the roar of the water echoing off the canyon walls.
The 40-foot falls plunge into an emerald pool surrounded by red rock cliffs. This desert jewel is reminiscent of a miniature Havasupai Falls. The Fossil Creek Waterfall is another of our favorite Arizona waterfalls.
The water is typically a beautiful shade of green but turns a chocolate brown during the spring runoff or after heavy rainfall.
There is an alcove to the left of the falls that provides the perfect shady spot to relax, eat a snack and admire the tranquil beauty.
Amenities near Cibecue Falls
The closest stores and restaurants are in Globe 40 miles away, so come prepared. Of course, there is always that fry bread!
There is a rest stop off of Hwy 60/AZ-77 on the right just before crossing the bridge. I would recommend making a stop because there are no restroom facilities past this point.
The best time to visit Cibecue Falls
The best time to visit Cibecue Falls is in May or early June before it gets too hot.
Also, the trail often closes during monsoon season due to flash floods. Many trails in the reservation remain closed from Labor day to April.
Be sure to check the White Mountain Game and Fish site for any closures.
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Things to note when hiking Cibecue Falls
Use extreme caution if the water level is high. Avoid entering the canyon during monsoon season and stormy weather, the area is prone to flash flooding.
The best time to visit is May-September, many of the trails on the reservation are closed from Labor Day until April. Check the site for any closures.
Swimming is prohibited in any of the waters on the Fort Apache Indian Reservation.
The river is shallow, but the pool at the waterfall is deep enough to swim in. It will be tempting on a hot day and you will most likely see people jumping in and swimming, but out of respect please refrain.
As this is a primitive trail, there are no trash bins. Be sure to pack out any trash you bring in. Leave no trace behind and help protect Arizona’s natural beauty!
The sign at the beginning of the trail instructs hikers to also pack out any human waste, so I would highly suggest using the restroom before you go!
Also, keep in mind that there is no cell phone service past Globe. I hope these tips are helpful as you plan your visit to Cibecue Falls
For more hidden gems, be sure to check out our guide for 7 Underrated Spots in Arizona You Need to Visit and 4 Day Arizona Hidden Gems Road Trip!
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This hike looks simply amazing!! That waterfall is stunning! Adding to my list of things to see on my return trip to your neck of the woods 😉
The list just keeps growing, I hope you make it back!
What a fantastic gift, Far better than flowers! This place looks amazing, thanks for the tips on visiting.
For sure, memories are so much better than things!
This would be my ideal Mother’s day. I would love to visit Arizona one day.
I hope you get a chance, there are so many beautiful places to explore!
This looks like a great hike. What city is it near? We go to Arizona often and I’d love to check it out.
It’s in between Globe and Show Low, I hope you get a chance to visit!
This is so beautiful! We are in the are a lot, so I’m keeping this is mind!
For sure! You would love it!
Water is always besst part of day
Pretty! This was a really wonderful post. Thank you for supplying this information.
I’m glad you found it helpful!
Looks amazing. Does being a horrible swimmer have any affect on the river crossings? I know swimming is prohibited but incase I slip or something.
Fortunately, the river is pretty shallow. The deepest we encountered was just below our knees, of course this can fluctuate if there has been a lot of rainfall. A walking stick would be helpful and avoid crossing in areas where the water is rushing quickly. Best of luck and enjoy your visit!
We just moved to Arizona and wanted to first thank you for all of the great ideas and information for things to do. I would love to go do this hike, it looks amazing. I have a 2 year old. What would be your minimum age recommendation for the hike? Thanks.
Hi Keri! So fun that you moved to Arizona, I hope you fall in love with this beautiful state! We have friends that have done this hike with younger kids and haven’t had any problems, but personally for me I think it would be more enjoyable and less stressful if they are at least older than 5 years. It’s not a strenuous hike but there are quite a few river crossings and in some parts it is a little deeper with a stronger current. The conditions all depend on the water flow, but I would just be nervous to carry a small child across. Hope that helps and hope you get a chance to go one of these days!
Thank you!!! That’s really helpful. I hope it opens back up soon and we can go hike it 🙂
Yes me too! You’ll have to let you me know if you end up going!
Do you know if it is doable or or advised in February?
thanks
Hi Daryl, unfortunately the trail is currently closed due to Covid and wild fire damages. You can call this number for more information 928-338-4385. Hope that helps!
This looks so beautiful. is in my bucket list! for sure
Oh good! I hope you get a chance to visit, it is such a beautiful place!
I see in your article that the trail is about 2 miles to the falls. With all the river crossings, about how long did it take you to cover those 2 miles? Thanks for all the details you provide in your article. Very helpful for planning!
Hi Krisit!
It took us about 3 hours total, including time at the falls. About an hour to hike there, a half-hour at the falls, and an hour to hike back. Of course, this can vary depending on different factors but that was our experience. I’ve read different articles that list this hike as anywhere from 3 miles to 4 miles round trip, but my Apple watch clocked it at 4 miles. I hope that helps!