McWater Falls

From the Lake Alma picnic parking, follow the paved path north to the hiking-trail kiosk. Continue on the natural-surface trail, cross two bridges, then turn right onto the waterfall spur. Return the same way. Jim Warnock describes this approach; the city confirms the trail entrance and waterfall outing.

Jim Warnock’s 2014 firsthand description measures 0.8 mile from parking to McWater Falls, 1.6 miles round-trip. This is the waterfall outing, not the longer lake circuit. The city does not publish a waterfall-only distance.

Paved start followed by natural surface, small drainages and bridges. The waterfall approach is not described as wheelchair accessible.

Where to start

Use Lake Alma picnic-area parking off Mountain Grove Road, beside the large green water tanks. Warnock describes turning east onto Collum Lane from US 71, north onto Mountain Grove Road, then left past the tanks. The Compulsive Hiker corroborates primary parking near 35.4968, -94.2174.

Timing & water

City park and trail hours are sunrise to sunset daily. Waterfall flow and same-day trail conditions are not verified.

Before you go

Reservation and fee requirements are not stated on the reviewed city trail page.