Fossil Creek
There is so much information out there about this place, and a lot of it is outdated or incorrect. So I'm hoping to share some information on here for those who may be interested in visiting this wonderful and beautiful place.
A Little Backstory
Fossil Creek is one of only two bodies of water with a Wild and Scenic River designation. The designation came in 2009 and has undergone tremendous efforts in restoration. This was largely in part thanks to public outcry at closing the APS dam and restoring the creek to its former glory. This was a big deal in and of itself since this was first in a series of dam retirements to happen across the country. While the Childs power plant is significant to Arizona history, it not longer had any use in present day energy needs and was found to be detrimental to this delicate riparian habitat. And with that, the dam was taken down and Fossil Creek restored. There are still historic placards in place to remember and pay tribute to the important role the hydroelectric played in Arizona development. The Fossil Creek corridor is also home to several important archeological sites still held sacred to the Yavapai-Apache tribes. So in protecting important habitat and species, the preservation of Fossil creek is also protecting a delicate piece of American history and sacred sites for indigenous people. Truly a special place, worth preserving.
The Habitat
Fossil creek crosses both the Tonto National Forest as well as the Coconino National Forest, plus two designated wilderness areas, Fossil Creek Wilderness and Mazetzal Wilderness. It is the home of all native species of fish and wildlife, as discussed here. Large limestone deposits call Travertine, are what create the beautiful cascading water falls that you see throughout the creek. The travertine traps whatever falls into it, creating a fossilized look and hence the name of the creek. The source of the creek are 7 spring sites within the Mogollon rim area, allowing the creek to flow at a consistent 20,000 gallons per minute.
Now, on to the good stuff
If you are visiting Fossil Creek for a relaxing day use experience in which you can drive up to the creek itself or enjoy a short 1-mile hike, lots 1-8 are for you (the access point if via Camp Verde and Clear Creek). These lots are located in the larger Fossil Creek area and entail a rugged 14-mile dirt road. It is really encouraged to take a high clearance vehicle as the road is rarely maintained. While, small cars are capable of making it down there, who wants to put that much wear-and-tear on their vehicle? It also increases the chances of needing a tow out of there which can range from $800 or $1,500 (remember AAA doesn't tow you off dirt roads). Now most people making the trek to Fossil Creek for the express purpose of viewing "The Waterfall", which entails a 2-mile round trip hike. The hike is not strenuous but does have some sections of steep incline, so just be aware and take you time! The waterfall isn't going anywhere! While the waterfall is truly beautiful, it gets really packed with people and there are so many other really fantastic sites to visit within this site, as seen from the USFS Flickr account. Don't limit yourself to just one spot, there are plenty of other to walk to and visit. Please be mindful of your parking during the permit season, as you can receive a violation if you are not parked in the correct spot.
Now, if you are looking for more of a longer, sweat enduring working out while visiting the creek, then purchasing a permit for Lot 9 is the one for you (the access point is via Strawberry). This lot is home to a ten-mile round trip hike with a 1500 ft elevation change, most of which happens in about 3 miles. While those may just seem like numbers, know that that is a lot of elevation gain/loss if a short period of trail. There is very little shade coverage on this trail and it boasts an impressive number of rescues. My advice, just be safe and know your limits; please don't bring down a cooler of beer as your only means of hydration for the day. Everyones water needs are different, so just plan accordingly. Hiking is high temperatures and sun exposure can turn deadly. This is also the site of the partially deconstructed dame site and the infamous "Toilet Bowl". I encourage everyone to view the Toilet Bowl....from a distance. This is no innocent Toilet Bowl and has in fact claimed lives. Death in Fossil Creek in not unheard of, so don't put yourself in unnecessary danger.
Final Notes
Please take care of our shared outdoor space. Everyday, trash is left behind my weary day users ranging from coolers to micro-trash such as Capri Sun straw wrappers. Please just be mindful that we all want to enjoy a clean, safe and beautiful Fossil Creek. Pay attention to the rules, and while some may seem arbitrary, please know that they are in place for a season. If you have questions, ask a Forest Ranger!
MC
A Little Backstory
Fossil Creek is one of only two bodies of water with a Wild and Scenic River designation. The designation came in 2009 and has undergone tremendous efforts in restoration. This was largely in part thanks to public outcry at closing the APS dam and restoring the creek to its former glory. This was a big deal in and of itself since this was first in a series of dam retirements to happen across the country. While the Childs power plant is significant to Arizona history, it not longer had any use in present day energy needs and was found to be detrimental to this delicate riparian habitat. And with that, the dam was taken down and Fossil Creek restored. There are still historic placards in place to remember and pay tribute to the important role the hydroelectric played in Arizona development. The Fossil Creek corridor is also home to several important archeological sites still held sacred to the Yavapai-Apache tribes. So in protecting important habitat and species, the preservation of Fossil creek is also protecting a delicate piece of American history and sacred sites for indigenous people. Truly a special place, worth preserving.
The Habitat
Fossil creek crosses both the Tonto National Forest as well as the Coconino National Forest, plus two designated wilderness areas, Fossil Creek Wilderness and Mazetzal Wilderness. It is the home of all native species of fish and wildlife, as discussed here. Large limestone deposits call Travertine, are what create the beautiful cascading water falls that you see throughout the creek. The travertine traps whatever falls into it, creating a fossilized look and hence the name of the creek. The source of the creek are 7 spring sites within the Mogollon rim area, allowing the creek to flow at a consistent 20,000 gallons per minute.
Now, on to the good stuff
If you are visiting Fossil Creek for a relaxing day use experience in which you can drive up to the creek itself or enjoy a short 1-mile hike, lots 1-8 are for you (the access point if via Camp Verde and Clear Creek). These lots are located in the larger Fossil Creek area and entail a rugged 14-mile dirt road. It is really encouraged to take a high clearance vehicle as the road is rarely maintained. While, small cars are capable of making it down there, who wants to put that much wear-and-tear on their vehicle? It also increases the chances of needing a tow out of there which can range from $800 or $1,500 (remember AAA doesn't tow you off dirt roads). Now most people making the trek to Fossil Creek for the express purpose of viewing "The Waterfall", which entails a 2-mile round trip hike. The hike is not strenuous but does have some sections of steep incline, so just be aware and take you time! The waterfall isn't going anywhere! While the waterfall is truly beautiful, it gets really packed with people and there are so many other really fantastic sites to visit within this site, as seen from the USFS Flickr account. Don't limit yourself to just one spot, there are plenty of other to walk to and visit. Please be mindful of your parking during the permit season, as you can receive a violation if you are not parked in the correct spot.
Now, if you are looking for more of a longer, sweat enduring working out while visiting the creek, then purchasing a permit for Lot 9 is the one for you (the access point is via Strawberry). This lot is home to a ten-mile round trip hike with a 1500 ft elevation change, most of which happens in about 3 miles. While those may just seem like numbers, know that that is a lot of elevation gain/loss if a short period of trail. There is very little shade coverage on this trail and it boasts an impressive number of rescues. My advice, just be safe and know your limits; please don't bring down a cooler of beer as your only means of hydration for the day. Everyones water needs are different, so just plan accordingly. Hiking is high temperatures and sun exposure can turn deadly. This is also the site of the partially deconstructed dame site and the infamous "Toilet Bowl". I encourage everyone to view the Toilet Bowl....from a distance. This is no innocent Toilet Bowl and has in fact claimed lives. Death in Fossil Creek in not unheard of, so don't put yourself in unnecessary danger.
Final Notes
Please take care of our shared outdoor space. Everyday, trash is left behind my weary day users ranging from coolers to micro-trash such as Capri Sun straw wrappers. Please just be mindful that we all want to enjoy a clean, safe and beautiful Fossil Creek. Pay attention to the rules, and while some may seem arbitrary, please know that they are in place for a season. If you have questions, ask a Forest Ranger!
MC
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