Cities

Fossil Creek

Take a dip in one of only two Wild and Scenic Rivers in Arizona.

Located between Camp Verde and Payson in Central Arizona’s high country, the secluded and rugged Fossil Creek recreation area takes some effort to get to. Visitors are rewarded with a pristine stretch of riverside activity reached by a long hike or a long and bumpy drive. The springs that feed Fossil Creek are rich in mineral content that turn leaves and other natural debris that touches the water into permanent travertine imprints. This surprising oasis in Central Arizona’s rugged backcountry flows into the Verde River, Arizona’s other Wild and Scenic River.

Drive In

While the rugged canyon is open for day-use year-round, the refreshing swimming holes at Fossil Creek are wildly popular during the summer months and require a permit to visit April through September. About 10 miles east of Camp Verde on Highway 260, take Forest Road 708 another 14 miles to find multiple access points along Fossil Creek. High-clearance vehicles are recommended, especially after summer monsoon storms. From any of the eight parking areas above Fossil Creek, short hikes lead down to a wonderful assortment of natural swimming pools, grottos and caves.

Hike In

Visitors can also drive to Strawberry to access the headwaters of Fossil Creek in a remote canyon. From the center of town, Fossil Creek Road is paved for 4 miles before turning to a dirt road for 1 mile to reach the Bob Bear Trailhead. The difficult 8-mile roundtrip hike descends into the rugged, remote canyon where cool pools pay off the effort. The steep and rocky trail is mostly exposed and should be tackled only by experienced hikers in the summer. Rest up and refuel at the creek before powering back up the 4-mile incline.

Tonto Natural Bridge State Park

Visitors opting for the tougher hike to Fossil Creek can drive just 10 miles from Strawberry to see another geologic wonder. Tonto Natural Bridge State Park showcases a 150-foot-wide travertine rooftop that spans across Pine Creek. Visitors can take a short but steep hike to the base of the bridge to walk through a mind-boggling 400-foot tunnel. Visitors just passing through or not up for the hike can snap pics of the natural bridge from observation points throughout the park.

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