In the Grand Canyon State, there are scores of hikes, easy and strenuous, that both wind through and lead to breathtaking scenery. The hike to Fossil Creek might be tough, but it is one of the best hikes near Strawberry, Arizona and you'll have a wonderful reward awaiting you (and a chance to wash off the sweat and relax in beautiful water). What could be better than that? Check out this incredible crystal blue creek in Arizona for your next weekend adventure.
Fossil Creek is a popular swimming spot in Arizona, and it's easy to see why. Between the waterfalls, hiking trails, wildlife, and crystal blue water, it has everything you could want in one place. Have you ever seen water so clear before? We haven't either.
Fossil Creek is popular for swimming, especially in the summer months. Plus, the water remains a pleasant 70 degrees year-round, so you can enjoy it no matter if it's snowing or scorching outside.
The creek flows from Fossil Springs 14 miles where it meets the Verde River downstream of the Childs power plant. Water gushes out of a 1,600-foot deep canyon at a rate of 20,000 gallons per minute from a stream at the bottom. What amazing views of the Arizona landscape!
You can access Fossil Creek one of two ways: by driving 14 miles down a rough dirt road where you'll find access points to the creek, or, the more fun way (in our opinion) - a strenuous four-mile hike one way and 1,500 feet of elevation down to the headwaters of Fossil Creek. This trail begins outside the town of Strawberry at the Fossil Springs trailhead parking lot.
There's also a waterfall trail at Fossil Creek that you won't want to miss. Located just outside of Camp Verde, it's one mile long and leads to this breathtaking destination.
Isn't that water just beautiful? It's rich in calcium, which creates a material called travertine. This rock-like substance encases whatever falls into the streambed, forming fossil-like formations, which gives the creek its name.
The fall colors at Fossil Creek are just one of the sights you'll get to enjoy on your hike! What spellbinding foliage.
Take this fun visual tour of the falls and the creek in this delightful video:
Have you ever been to this mesmerizing crystal blue creek in Arizona? Let us know how you liked it in the comments! For more information, visit the USDA Forest Service website.
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