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Ellison Creek Cascades
4.7 ★★★★★ 31 Google reviews · Running trail in Payson, Arizona · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
We have not been able to confirm the surface, distance or shape of Ellison Creek Cascades yet from its own listing, the park's website or runner reviews — so those cells stay blank rather than guess. What is below comes straight from the listing and from reviewers' own words. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
What runners say about Ellison Creek Cascades
“Great place for a great workout and beautiful views.”
A great local hike in Payson that's doable for young and old. Most people hike in from Water Wheel for the walk along the creek and canyon, but the back trail is a grated road from Houston Mesa to the falls that's doable for the grand parents. Find parking in the right between 2nd and 3rd crossing.
Best to avoid the long hike from wagon wheel, go to roughly the 8 mile mark, and walk the mile gravel road in.
A beautiful natural pool in the woods. An amazing trail though the river rocks. Be very aware of it's dangers. A sudden flood on a sunny July day can kill all your party. You cannot go there without beeing fully aware of the weather forecast.
I don't know if I would rate this easy as others have. There's a bit of a steep hill and then rock climbing. Still nice but I would advise not attempting with small children or elderly
Trail conditions & character
“Great place for a great workout and beautiful views.”
Plan your run at Ellison Creek Cascades
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
Running trails near Payson
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Water Wheel Falls Hiking Trail
4.7 ★★★★★ 883 reviews
Short riverside hike with some rock scrambling to reach a waterfall, popular for family day trips.
First Crossing Day Use Area
4.6 ★★★★★ 82 reviews
Hiking area with a picnic spot and a creek.
Houston Mesa Nature Trail
4.9 ★★★★★ 20 reviews
Cypress Trail
4.7 ★★★★★ 127 reviews
Kid-friendly hiking area with a variety of trails that lead to scenic views.