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    Fossil Creek Wilderness

    4.3 (86 reviews)

    Fossil Creek Wilderness Photos

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    Fossil = WILDERNESS AREA. It's not a park. There is zero supervision. There are no People Rangers or backcountry concierges. You're solo !!!
    A. Z.

    Worth the wait! Jade green waters are beautiful! Print & sign your permit and bring your photo I.D. They're not playing around anymore. You gotta be legit the permit holder. You can't beat their system. Bring water, food, and a full tank of gas! It's an hour just from the HWY to the 2nd checkpoint where the recreation area is located. You're gonna want a truck, SUV, or jeep for that road. It's a tough road! It's a "primitive road." Read all the reviews and watch all the YouTubes before departing your house.

    Halee J.

    Water holes, cooler weather, trees, dirt, exploring it's a beautiful time. Nice hiking and trial areas. It was very clean. Water is so cold but great to cool off in!

    Was years when the power plant and the flames were taken the water out of fossil Creek

    I don't think it's a business. I think it's a place to visit and you have followed the rules of national Forest requesting an inquiry for the permit on the season and also observe and regulation of the off-season. I enjoy the place a lot most of the time I got to Pack Raft

    Julie D.

    Fossil creek waterfall... Let me start by saying you should have an SUV or truck to get here. Off the highway there is a rough 17 mile rock and dirt road that takes an hour to get to the parking lot. It is hard on your vehicle and not recommended for a low sedan vehicle. When you get your park permit, which is required and in high demand, try to get in the 1st parking lot or you will be walking further to get to the waterfall. Bring water shoes. There are several places to swim. The hike in is a bit rough in places. Bring water and pack your own lunch or snack in. Don't bring a big cooler. Whatever goes in Must be carried back out. The falls at the end is well worth the trek. Clear, crisp, beautiful water. Cold but quickly adjusted to. We hung out at the waterfall for at least an hour. There are several places to stop along the river for swimming. A few places you can jump off rocks. Lots of fish that don't bother you. Such a pretty hike and scenery reminiscent of the Pacific Northwest. A drastic change from the brown Verde river. Definitely a day trip, and worth it. I gave four stars only because the drive in and out is treacherous!

    Coconino National Forest sign at the bridge of the fossil creek entrance.
    Amber N.

    This review was just due to the events with my luck. I have been waiting for fossil creek to reopen since May. They were closed due to fire. Finally they announced they would reopen July 11, 2018. I bought the permit ahead time for the waterfall parking trail. I heard it was $6 before but now they changed it to $10. Definitely make sure have the permit printed out not on your electronic device or they won't take it. First of all, the location of this place is off road so they give you certain directions on how to get there but they were really off. I luckily had someone in mg group that had experience going there. Secondly, the entrance to the hiking trail has a very rocky and dirt road that's 14 miles before the place. Be cautious and extra careful. When I say careful I mean REALLY careful. I had to learn the hard way that my skid plate of my car got ripped off by a huge rock in the middle of the road. Third, once you get there it's about a moderate 4 mile hiking trail back and forth. The end of the trail is the big waterfall and it is beautiful. Definitely worth it for a instagramable worthy picture. Going on the middle of July had it's pros and cons too it. The pros were that it's Monsoon season, so the weather isn't as hot and there are less people. When I went, no one was there so I'm glad I didn't have a crowded away for my first time there. Cons would be that it's hard to find, difficult hiking trail if you out of shape, and higher chances of storm which can lead to flooding. The ranger warned us that the water would be a brown/red color to it due the monsoons. I feel like the rangers who watch the forest should be better assistance but overall it was a good experience and I hope to come back in the future.

    Map of closure
    Sarah B.

    WATERFALL TRAIL/FOSSIL CREEK IS CLOSED UNTIL MAY 6, 2021 We drove 3hrs to get here only to find a sign saying the trail is closed. I'm posting online in hopes other will see this and know to not go while it's closed. *According to the closure map, it looks like Fossil Springs road may still be open See photos

    John L.

    Permits are now required to park close to the waterfall. The permits have helped eith overcrowding parking. The earlier you reserve the better parking spots youll get. The permits are 10 dollars. Fossil creek is about 2hrs from phoenix. There is about a 17mile stretch of rough road before getting to the parking area. Depending on the parking area you reserve will determine your hike to the falls. It can either be a 1mile hike or a 3.75 mile hike. However all along the trail youll find the creek. The water is clear and cool. There are bathrooms before the trail to the waterfall. The waterfall is beautiful. You can swim to a small cave behind the waterfall. You can also jump from the top of the waterfall after a bit of a climb. The further you go above the waterfall, youll find a swirling bowl of water. The blue and clarity of the water was breathtaking. This area is perfect for everyone of all ages. Just please remember to clean up after yourselves.

    Water fall
    Farideh A.

    This is a great hike you just have to be prepare. got to have lot of water good shoes . And good knee lol

    4 miles hike down on fossil springs trailhead lead you to this fossil springs. 4 miles down means 4 miles up later
    Yuko H.

    Took a day off on Thursday in September to enjoy cool water. Free to enter, I heard this place gets busy. If possible, avoid peak time. When we went, it wasn't crowded at all. There are two ways to get there (as far as I know). One is from I-17 to Camp Verde (this side is longer dirt road drive but less hiking to get to the river). Another way which we took is from Payson. From Fountain hills, it was about 1hr and a half drive. From Phoenix, take the beeline highway (87) to Payson, continue north to Pine and Strawberry. Go left on Fossil Creek Road for about three miles to get to the Fossil Springs Trailhead. They have bathroom facility (no running water) at the parking lot. From the parking lot, it's 4 miles hike down to the Fossil Springs. It's about 1,500 elevation difference. Hike down was very easy. They recommend 1 gallon of water per person, the sign said this trail is good for those who can hike 10 miles easily. They rescued 200 people this summer alone. I recommend just to pace yourself as 4 miles hike down means 4 miles hike up later. What goes down must come up, right? It was difficult to hike 4 miles up. Trail itself isn't difficult at all but there wasn't much to motivate me to push harder as fun was already down there. I think it took us just about 2 hours to hike up. Yes we run (jogged) while it was relatively flat around 2 miles area but that didn't last long at all. Despite of 4 miles hike up awaits, I still would like to come back again, possibly stay longer next time if that means I need to carry more. Water was beautiful. It felt cold at first but once I jumped in, cool water felt really nice for my body. Really nice color of the water. I couldn't believe we were still in Arizona. Perhaps it was more enjoyable as it was weekday in September with less people. Some reviewers said trash left by others, the area we went on this particular day, I didn't see any. I was prepared with extra garbage bag to bring trash up but I didn't have to. Overall, I enjoyed my day in the nature and would come back.

    A true desert oasis!!!
    Miranda M.

    Fantastic day trip out of Phoenix! Fossil creek is a gem, a total desert oasis! Highly recommended! Difficult hike so it's certainly not for everyone, but overall a wonderful experience if you can handle 10 miles!! Don't bring your grandma, your 7-year-old, or a friend who is in terrible shape. Wear good shoes, pack extra socks, and bring that "moleskin" stuff for blisters! Goggles and an underwater camera would be nice to have while swimming. Don't forget a change of clothes and a towel for after your swim! Took us about two hours to drive from Phoenix. The last section of the drive is a dirt road but is well-maintained so the minivan was able to handle it. Before we got on the trail, we talked to a few park rangers who had set up a table in the parking lot. They told us they've done 200+ rescues this year alone! They warned us to take it easy and bring a lot of water. While my group was prepared, I think it's really nice they are taking a proactive approach to safety. The hike down to the bottom took two hours, and was 5 miles total. We found a secluded spot right next to the water and decided to "camp out" there. (Overnight camping is allowed in certain areas, but we were just hanging out for a few hours.) Ate some snacks to refuel and then hopped in the crystal-clear water. There are tons of fish in the water and if you stand still for too long, they will start nibbling on your feet! It tickled but felt great as my feet were pretty sore from the hike. Our spot was next to three different (but connected) pools so we started swimming there, but moved upstream to see some small waterfalls. Had a great time climbing and jumping off waterfalls, but be careful because some areas are not as deep as you'd think! The water was colder than I prefer (mid 60s) but refreshing after a long, sweaty hike. Right before we left the creek area, we stopped at the springs to fill up our water bottles. So cool to see the water just bubbling up out of the earth! Water tasted great and we didn't get sick so it was clean just like the park rangers said! It was great to have a water source at the bottom, so you really only need to bring water for the hike down. I'm not gonna lie - the hike up was terrible and I was struggling! It was cloudy so temperatures weren't too warm (low 80s) but my feet were killing me! It took almost three hours to hike from the creek to the parking lot. All in all, it was an amazing trip. We brought our two dogs who did really well, but probably could've benefited from some "doggie boots" to prevent their paw pads from ripping. Our bigger dog had some damage to her paws from the hike back up - so sad! :( (I will note, all the park signs say that it is NOT recommended to bring dogs. Our dogs did well, but one ended up with hurt paws after the hike up. It would have been a nightmare if we had needed to carry them out.) Including our drive to/from Phoenix, it was a full 12-hour day. One last note - we didn't see very much trash! Maybe the other Yelpers have been cleaning up after the jerks who leave trash behind. Thanks guys!!

    Vanessa D.

    Perfect family day ! Seriously this place couldn't be more breath taking! A Few things one pack a lunch for the day because it's a day adventure for sure, you will need a permit, personally I like week days it seems not as busy, you will need a permit during certain times of the year! The water is crystal clear it almost looks fake ! It's quite chilly too but wow it's amazing ! It's about an hour off of a rocky road To the falls so. We will be back maybe a yearly tradition ! Love this place it's like a hidden oasis in Arizona !

    Eric B.

    Are you looking for an adventure to beat the AZ desert heat that includes a cool stream with clean running water and an awesome waterfall? Look no further than Fossil Creek! A lot has been said previously of overcrowding and mass amounts of littering, but these have been put in check by the recent implementation of the permit system. My friends and I parked at the Homestead Lot which is a good 2 miles or so from the Waterfall Trail, our destination. DON'T BE AFRAID TO PARK IN A FAR LOT. I feel like the distances between lots on the map are a little overestimated--definitely did not feel like 2 miles to the trailhead. We saw a few people walking from pretty much the start of the turnoff by the 260. Please do not decide to partake in such a silly venture--you are 12 miles away from the creek and likely won't make it before sundown lol. Also be warned it's a bumpy ride once you're off the 260 so drive a 4x4 high clearance vehicle if you know what's best for you. Once you get to the actual trailhead, you will find the entrance on the left, which instantly begins your descent to the creek. It's always a nice reward to begin hearing the running water as you get closer! Continue on for another mile or so and you'll reach the waterfall. If you're adventurous and love cliff diving, I recommend it on this one. Make sure you can handle 25-ft heights and assess before hand where you plan on landing, as there are some shallow areas that you would not want to shoot for. The water temp was cool but not freezing which added a nice refreshing feel to the otherwise hot day. If you're into exploring, check out the small crevice behind the waterfall. It's super neat to see the water pounding down from inside! Please do everyone who loves this spot a favor and pack in what you pack out and leave no trace!

    The water is really low here, and the pic doesn't do it justice

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    Fossil creek is a beautiful gem of nature. Great to visit during the summer when the beautiful blue water will cool you off.

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    Page 1 of 3

    Ask the Community - Fossil Creek Wilderness

    I see different parking lots, but I will be taking my kids. Which parking lot is the closest to the waterfalls?

    Only come if you get a permit first for the waterfall trailhead. DO NOT TAKE KIDS to the fossil spring side on Strawberry. The hike is waaaay to long for kids and most unfit adults. Plus it's shut down till October.

    Can you take a rolling ice chest on the 1 mile hike?

    Yes, if you want to carry it behind you.

    Is there cell phone reception in the area?

    Negative. It's a 15 mike rough dirt road and you'll lose service before the falls. Just sit back and enjoy the beauty of nature

    How many people break their back jumping off the waterfall each year?

    None

    How far of a hike to swimming hole and waterfalls? And how is it if u wanted to take dog?

    Use google... one mile

    Would like to go to fossil creek wilderness but need to know. How far in do u have to hike to get to swim holes or waterfalls? And is it to hard to take ur dog with?

    Use google... it is s one mile hike. Get a permit first. Lol

    How much is the parking permit for fossil creek wilderness.?

    Book thru Recreation.gov $6/permit can only book a month in advance...going in June, you cant book until May 1st at 10a.

    View All 8 Questions

    Review Highlights - Fossil Creek Wilderness

    My boyfriend and I come up through Camp Verde because the road from Strawberry is closed until April 15, 2015.

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    Woods Canyon Lake and Scenic Drive - Dragonfly

    Woods Canyon Lake and Scenic Drive

    4.3(31 reviews)
    51.6 mi

    Did you know this about the Mogollon Rim? - Stretching 200 miles, the Mogollon Rim provides…read morebreathtaking views overlooking an expansive forest of pine trees. The rim is a true geological wonder hosting sedimentary, volcanic and metamorphic rock. The Mogollon Rim has been a favorite place for us to camp at over the years. Take the turn off to Woods Canyon lake and follow along turn off to a dirt road. We have many fond memories from our camping trips. It is free to camp and is a first come campsites. Plenty of boondock camping sites along the way to the rim or stay at one of the many campgrounds. The evenings do get cold even in the summer so pack accordingly. If you're not into camping it's a great day trip from Phoenix with lots of hiking and exploring opportunities. Great for pets, kids, fishing at the lake, hiking, wildlife watching, or just a relaxing and beautiful drive to soak in Mother Nature.

    Have not been here for many years. Enjoyed an early morning weekday fishing trip. Lots of camping…read moresites available. Parked near the boat ramp and convenience store that has reopened. Got some tips on bait and purchased a few more lures. A couple of small snow packs still visible, and a few snow flakes in the morning. Caught and released a nice rainbow trout. Saw a bald eagle fly by and enjoyed the scenery. Had lunch near a scenic outlook. Place is likely crowded on weekends but that is expected, given the location and beauty of this place.

    Photos
    Woods Canyon Lake and Scenic Drive - PACKAGING LABELS - keep nature nice! Throw it away

    PACKAGING LABELS - keep nature nice! Throw it away

    Woods Canyon Lake and Scenic Drive
    Woods Canyon Lake and Scenic Drive

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    Fossil Creek Wilderness - hiking - Updated May 2026

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