In 1883, workers began digging the Arizona Canal to bring water to farms in the Valley. In 1884 they hit hard rock at a natural drop of about 20 feet. They left it in place and let the water pour over it, making a waterfall in the desert.
The falls became a popular spot. The mist cooled the air, trees gave shade, and families from Phoenix and Tempe came for picnics. In 1901 and 1902 the Phoenix Light and Fuel Company built a power plant here to provide the first electricity to Phoenix.
After about 50 years of making power, the site was neglected. In the early 2000s it was rebuilt as a public-art project and a working power station that makes enough electricity for about 150 homes. The modern park opened in 2003.