Bullion Falls

Bullion Falls outside Marysvale gets the first official hidden gem award on the blog. Tucked up into the mountains above the town of Maryvale is an old gold mining area. As you drive up the access road, you can see old mining equipment and shacks. Once you begin the trail, you are treated to sounds of the running river and views of wildflowers, forest galore, and mountains. You will not hike for too long before you see and hear Buillion Falls. Once you actually reach the falls, be sure to scramble down to the bottom to get a closer view of the 60-foot falls. You can also walk on the rocks and logs in the river to get a better vantage point as it cascades down the mountain. The scramble is not too challenging, we were able to go down and back up with our dachshunds with us or being carried.

Difficulty: Moderate related to elevation. 

Trail Stats: 2.0 miles, out and back, 449 feet elevation gain.

Trail Finding: Straightforward for most of the trail. To get the bottom of the falls, continue left and towards the falls. When we went, there was a rope tied to one of the trees to hold onto for an easier descent. Follow this down to the bottom of the falls and to the river.

Conditions: Packed dirt, gravel, exposed roots when going down toward the falls.

Would I Repeat This: Yes, this whole area was peaceful and beautiful. 

Parking: Small area to park and pay a nominal fee at Miner’s Park, use this park in your map app to easily find the trailhead.  $8 as of the time of this post. 

Timing: There is intermittent shade, and this, along with the elevation, makes this a comfortable hike to do at different times of the day.

Downloaded Map: I would recommend for being able to find the downhill scramble to the bottom of the falls. 

Fees: $8, there is a fee box with envelopes.

Trails: Head over to Fremont Indian State park to view some amazing petroglyphs and short hikes and walks, including Cave of 100 Hands.