#FOSSIL CREEK WATERFALL TRAIL PORTABLE#

From here, the road is paved for about 24 miles. From Phoenix, you will exit 287 off of interstate 17 and turn towards State Route 260. To access the Fossil Creek Waterfall Trailhead, you will take interstate 17 that connects Phoenix to Flagstaff. You still have to buy one, which comes available one month ahead of time. Unfortunately this doesn’t mean you can get a permit on the spot. We have noticed countless times that not everyone who bought a permit for your specific day shows up.

You are allowed to enter at 8 am, with no entry pass the gate after 4 pm and the area closes at 8 pm. Earlier this summer it was closed down due to the fires being close by. You can get your permits to print out at the Government Recreation Website and you can check for road closures before you go to make sure you don’t waste your time. Permits are $10 each and there is a maximum of one permit per person every month. Day Permitįossil Creek requires permits from April 1st to October 1st, while the rest of the year you do not need one. The sun helps to warm you up right away when it’s the summer months. Since I’m in the water for longer, I need a little more help with staying warm.

#FOSSIL CREEK WATERFALL TRAIL PORTABLE#

That is why I am one of the few that actually bring a small wetsuit with me, but in my defense, I do like to use our Dive Portable Lungs Scuba Kit. It was amazing jumping in the water and it only took a few seconds for me to realize that it was indeed cold.įor some, it is perfect, while others might find the water a bit chilly. That could have been attributed to the fact that it was over 110 out, we had been walking from lot 5 and we just wanted to cool off. The first time I saw the clear water of Fossil Creek, I was absolutely ecstatic. People have been hurt and some have died! It's a difficult area to be rescued from if you get hurt. A few pointers to remember is to move over for people who can drive the 14 mile road faster than you, flip-flops are not adequate hiking shoes and there is no lifeguard on duty. After buying your permit in advanced it’s time to get ready to go.ĭon’t forget to bring extra water, snacks, water shoes, hiking boots, waterproof camera, water toys, hammocks, and your printed out permit. The two areas to enter are either from Strawberry or Camp Verde. You can pick which trail head you wish to go to when getting your permit. A few of them are the Headwater Chub, Roundtail Chub, Longfin Dace, and the Sonoran Sucker. While you are enjoying the water, take out some goggles and try to see some of the areas native fish.

Close to the shores you can sometimes find the Arizona Toad or along your hike a Gila monster. It can offer you a chance to float around in one of the many swimming holes, go jumping or sliding off of a waterfall, explore the creeks hidden rock overhangs, lay around in a hammock by the river, or hike the three different trails.Īs you explore the creek, take the time to look out for some of the wildlife that lives in this riparian area. What we love so much about Fossil Creek is that is has a little bit of everything to offer for an amazing day.

Fossil creek waterfall trail