Top 6 Waterfalls in the Spring Mountains
Best waterfalls in the Spring Mountains offer a refreshing contrast to the surrounding desert landscape. This region, particularly the Mount Charleston area, features diverse terrain from shaded forests to rugged limestone cliffs. Waterfalls here are often fed by snowmelt or springs, providing seasonal flows and year-round interest. The area provides accessible outdoor experiences for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
Best waterfalls in the Spring Mountains
- The most popular waterfalls is Mary Jane Falls, a seasonal waterfall that descends approximately 200…
Last updated: May 15, 2026
First Creek Canyon Falls and Pool
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Mummy Spring
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Mary Jane Falls
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Small Waterfall
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Little Falls
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Lost Creek Canyon and Waterfall
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Tips from the Community
On the east slope of Mummy Mountain, you pass through an open, gravelly hillside dotted with ancient Bristlecone Pines and reach Mummy Springs. Just 0.3 miles off the main North Loop Trail (0.6 miles round trip from the North Loop) this peaceful spring waters a picturesque alpine meadow and a lovely place to take photos and rest.
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Just a few hundred feet off the main trail is a small waterfall flowing down a two-tiered limestone cliff (well technically three, but you can only see two from the base). It is a great little detour on your way up or down from Cathedral Rock.
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Little Falls is a unique seasonal waterfall that flows down limestone cliffs at the end of a narrow box canyon. This waterfall is accessed by a short, out and back spur trail (0.6-mile total) off the main Cathedral Rock trail. The spur trail takes you through a narrow, shaded canyon to the waterfall - watch your footing because you sometimes need to scramble up and over rounded logs wedged between the limestone walls. This short detour is an excellent way to add a little milage to your hike and visit a lovely, shaded waterfall in a unique setting.
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Mary Jane Falls is a seasonal waterfall up Kyle Canyon. These towering falls are fed primarily by snowmelt and therefore only occur in the spring and/ or after heavy rainfall. Even if the falls are not in, this is a peaceful, scenic spot high up among sheer limestone cliffs.
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Just a short distance off of the main First Creek Canyon Trail is a hidden waterfall that flows into a deep pool. Although the falls are not always running, it's a peaceful place to sip water and take photos under the shade of some large cottonwood trees. Please refrain from swimming in or allowing dogs to swim the pool! This is an important water source in the desert for many local species of plants and animals. Please also be mindful of erosion when hiking down to the pool and try to stick to the most commonly used trail by a large pine tree and a medium sized white boulder. Also be aware that to get to the pool you might need to hop a few boulders over the water. I recommend generally sticking to the left-hand side of the stream when facing the pool to take the easiest and most traveled path to prevent wet feet and to help protect the delicate environment.
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Just 0.6 miles round trip from Rocky Gap Road is a hidden seasonal waterfall in Lost Creek Canyon (typically present after rain storms and December-April). The waterfall is sometimes frozen the winter providing unique photo opportunities in the desert! This area is also a part of the Children's Discovery Trail, a self-guided, interpretive trail about the Red Rock Canyon area.
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The Mummy Spring Trail splits at this point. The path up leads to the spring and a small waterfall. If you want to follow the trail down (not marked on all maps), you have to struggle a little through the scrub to find the partly quite steep but rarely used path along Deer Creek.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular waterfalls to visit in the Spring Mountains?
Beyond the well-known Mary Jane Falls, visitors also enjoy the serene First Creek Canyon Falls and Pool, a hidden seasonal waterfall. Another peaceful spot is Mummy Spring, which features a small waterfall and an alpine meadow.
When is the best time to visit the waterfalls in the Spring Mountains?
The best time to visit is typically during late winter and spring, as many waterfalls, like Mary Jane Falls, are fed primarily by snowmelt. This ensures the strongest flow. However, spring-fed falls like Little Falls can offer a reliable flow even into the summer months. Fall also provides beautiful foliage.
Are there any family-friendly waterfall hikes in the Spring Mountains?
Yes, the Spring Mountains offer options for families. The hike to Lost Creek Canyon and Waterfall is a short 0.6-mile round trip from Rocky Gap Road and is part of the Children's Discovery Trail, making it suitable for families. Little Falls is also considered accessible for various skill levels and dog-friendly.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see near the waterfalls?
The Spring Mountains offer a refreshing contrast to the desert. You'll find shaded forests of aspen, fir, and birch trees, rugged limestone cliffs, and even limestone caves near Mary Jane Falls. Areas like Mummy Spring feature picturesque alpine meadows, and canyons like First Creek Canyon provide unique settings.
Are there any challenging waterfall hikes for experienced trekkers?
Yes, for a more challenging experience, consider the hike to Big Falls. While not listed in the guide highlights, it's known for a dramatic 150-200 foot drop and involves some scrambling and route finding, making it a more strenuous trek than Mary Jane Falls.
Can I bring my dog to the waterfall trails in the Spring Mountains?
Many trails in the Spring Mountains are dog-friendly. For instance, the hike to Little Falls is considered dog-friendly. Always check specific trail regulations and ensure your dog is on a leash and you pack out all waste.
What are some unique seasonal aspects of the Spring Mountains waterfalls?
The waterfalls are highly seasonal. During winter, some, like Echo Falls, transform into impressive ice climbs. Lost Creek Canyon and Waterfall can sometimes be frozen in winter, offering unique photo opportunities. Snowmelt in spring ensures the strongest flows for many falls.
What other outdoor activities can I do near the waterfalls in the Spring Mountains?
The Spring Mountains offer a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails, including the challenging North Loop Trail, or explore cycling routes like the Red Rock Scenic Loop. For more options, check out guides for running, cycling, and easy hikes in the region.
Are there any less-known or 'hidden' waterfalls worth exploring?
Yes, First Creek Canyon Falls and Pool is a hidden seasonal waterfall located a short distance off the main First Creek Canyon Trail, offering a peaceful retreat. Another small, lesser-known waterfall is found just a few hundred feet off the main trail near Cathedral Rock, making for a great detour.
What should I know about parking and permits for visiting waterfalls?
Parking availability varies by trailhead. While specific permit requirements for individual waterfalls are not always needed, it's advisable to check the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area's official resources for any current regulations, especially for popular areas like Mary Jane Falls, Big Falls, or Little Falls.
What makes Little Falls a unique waterfall in the Spring Mountains?
Little Falls is unique because it's spring-fed, providing a surprisingly reliable flow even into the summer months, unlike many other seasonal falls. It tumbles over multiple drops within a tightly-squeezed canyon beneath Cathedral Rock, offering a picturesque and consistently refreshing experience.
What wildlife might I encounter near the waterfalls?
The Spring Mountains are home to various wildlife. Near Mary Jane Falls, you might spot mule deer and different bird species. The diverse ecosystems around the waterfalls support a range of local flora and fauna, especially in areas where water is a precious resource.
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