Yeah, visit the falls, but don't miss the best part

It's summer time and the kids are out of school, so we are heading to Waterwheel Falls in Payson, Arizona! Visit wildpathsaz.co... for more information.
A short hike takes you along the Verde River to the confluence with Ellison Creek where you turn right. If you're looking for a little more solitude, you can play in the Verde River at any point along the trail or continue a little past the confluence to a cool little swimming hole with a really sketchy rope swing. Heather decided to give it a go (but it didn't work out all that well.)
There are rock climbing routes along the way, and in fact we saw a veteran rock climber named Manny on a trad climb there. He's the OG! He put up a lot of the Payson routes on Mountain Project.
There is also a beefy I-bolt and piton there that people must use to rappel down to a waterfall that honestly looks better than the waterfall at the main swimming hole. The rappels are about 40-50 feet, though we didn't have gear, so we didn't get a chance to try them out. They look pretty fun, though!
Once at the swimming hole, do not expect solitude. In fact, it's best if you expect litter, loud music, and lots of people. That way, if you happen to go when it's not crowded, you'll be pleasantly surprised, and if you go when there is a large youth group or some party people, it'll be just what you expected.
Speaking of the youth group, they had two foot injuries! One hobbled out with the help of a couple people, and the other had a full stretcher and 10-person crew hauling her out. The terrain is rocky, uneven, and sometimes slippery, so be sure you can handle that type of terrain. You will have to cross the river once also.
There's a $10 fee to park at Waterwheel Falls, payable with cash in a provided envelope.
Water Wheel Falls in Payson, Arizona