Fossil Creek is a Lush Oasis in the Middle of Arizona’s High Desert
“Most people come to Fossil Creek to sunbathe, wade, hike and birdwatch. It’s also a great place to take photographs.”
Photos and Write-up by Deborah Lee Soltesz
Fossil Creek seems to appear out of nowhere, gushing 20,000 gallons a minute out of a series of springs at the bottom of a 1,600 foot deep canyon.
Over the years these calcium laden waters have laid down huge deposits of a type of limestone called travertine.
Travertine deposits encase whatever happens to fall into the streambed, forming the fossils for which the area is named.
Tonto Bench, Fossil Creek
These deposits create deep pools along the length of the creek, providing opportunities to find more secluded swimming holes than the popular pool at the waterfall.
The large, natural waterfall on Fossil Creek is the destination of an easy, one mile hike on Waterfall Trail.
A large, deep pool at the base of the fall is a popular swimming hole. This permanent water source has created a stunningly beautiful, green riparian zone rich with flora and fauna at the bottom of this arid canyon in Arizona’s high desert.
Fossil Creek is one of two “Wild and Scenic” rivers in Arizona.
This special designation was achieved when the Irving power plant was decommissioned, and removal of flume and dam on the creek allowed this magnificent creek to once again flow freely through Arizona’s arid landscape.
Most people come to Fossil Creek to sunbathe, wade, hike and birdwatch. It’s also a great place to take photographs.
The lushness of the riparian area strikes a sharp contrast to the brittle desert that surrounds it.
Increasing popularity has led to the Coconino and Tonto National Forests to implement a parking permit reservation system in 2016. Reserved parking permits give visitors the peace of mind knowing they’ll have a spot waiting for them in this remote location. Many visitors drive two or three hours to get to the creek.
The final descent to the creek at the bottom of a canyon is on an extremely rough, rocky jeep road. In prior years, the area would often be closed to entry when it reached capacity, and potential visitors would be turned away after the long, difficult drive.
Learn more about visiting Fossil Creek, Fossil Springs Wilderness, and the Coconino National Forest: www.fs.usda.gov/coconino
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