Fossil Creek & Fossil Springs Guide

Permits, trails, waterfall access, and everything you need to plan your visit.

What Is Fossil Creek?

72°F

Year-round water temp

20,000

Gallons per minute

Fossil Creek is a spring-fed stream in central Arizona known for its turquoise pools, travertine waterfalls, and a swim-through cave. The spring that feeds it (Fossil Springs) pumps out 20,000 gallons of 72°F water per minute, year-round.

There are two separate waterfall areas along the creek, miles apart with different access points and different permits. The Bob Bear Trail (from Strawberry) reaches the dam waterfall and cave upstream. The Dixon Lewis Trail (from Camp Verde) reaches a different waterfall downstream.

A Tonto Pass does not work here. Fossil Creek has its own permit system.

Permits

From April through October, a day-use permit ($6/vehicle) is required. The two sides of Fossil Creek have separate permits on Recreation.gov, so make sure you book the right one for the trail you plan to hike.

Bob Bear Trailhead Permit (Tonto NF)

For the Bob Bear Trail to Fossil Springs, the dam waterfall, and the cave. Accessed from Strawberry via Fossil Springs Road.

Fossil Creek Day Use Permit (Coconino NF)

For the Dixon Lewis Trail (downstream waterfall), Fossil Creek Bridge, and other downstream parking areas. Accessed via FR 708 from Camp Verde.

Good to know
  • Permits are released on a rolling basis and sell out fast, especially weekends.
  • Each permit covers one vehicle and all passengers.
  • Print or save your permit before you go. There is no cell service in the canyon.
  • A Tonto Pass does not work at Fossil Creek.

From late October through March, no permit or fee is required on either side. Exact dates vary each year, so check Recreation.gov for the current schedule. Off-season roads may be rough or gated, and restrooms may be closed.

Trails

Two main trails access different parts of Fossil Creek. They reach separate waterfalls miles apart, so make sure you pick the right one (and book the matching permit).

Bob Bear Trail

Tonto NF · Fossil Springs / The Dam

AllTrails

The classic route to the most famous spot on Fossil Creek. Formerly Fossil Springs Trail #18.

  • Destination: Dam waterfall and swim-through cave (Mermaid Grotto)
  • Access: Bob Bear Trailhead near Strawberry via Fossil Springs Road
  • Heads up: Steep descent means a tough climb back out
~4 mi one way1,400 ft descentModerate–strenuousOut & back

Dixon Lewis Trail

Coconino NF · Downstream Waterfall

AllTrails

The easy option. Quick walk to a different waterfall with swimming and cliff jumping.

  • Destination: Downstream waterfall, swimming hole, cliff-jumping spots
  • Access: Dixon Lewis parking area off FR 708 from Camp Verde
  • Heads up: Different waterfall from the dam/cave upstream. Parking fills fast.
~1 mi one wayMinimal elevationEasyOut & back

Tips for Visiting

Planning Ahead

  • Permits sell out fast, especially weekends. Set a reminder for when new dates drop on Recreation.gov.
  • Parking fills up by mid-morning during permit season. Plan to arrive by 8–9 AM.
  • No cell service in the canyon. Download your permit and maps before you go.

Rules & Gear

  • Dogs are prohibited April through October to protect the Wild & Scenic River ecosystem.
  • Carry-in, carry-out. No trash cans. Glass containers are prohibited.
  • Bring water shoes. The creek bottom is rocky and the travertine gets slippery.

Best Time to Visit

May–September is best for swimming (water is 72°F year-round, but warmer air helps). October–March offers solitude and free access with no permit required.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you need a permit for Fossil Creek?
Yes. From April through October, you need a $6 day-use permit per vehicle, booked through Recreation.gov. From late October through March, no permit is needed. Permits sell out fast, so book early.
What is the difference between Fossil Creek and Fossil Springs?
Fossil Springs is the spring source. Fossil Creek is the stream it feeds. Most people use the names interchangeably. When someone says 'Fossil Springs waterfall,' they usually mean one of the waterfalls along Fossil Creek.
How do I get to Fossil Springs waterfall?
Two trails, two different waterfalls. The Bob Bear Trail (Tonto NF side, from Strawberry) is ~4 miles and reaches the dam waterfall and swim-through cave upstream. The Dixon Lewis Trail (Coconino NF side, from Camp Verde) is ~1 mile and reaches a separate downstream waterfall. They're miles apart and require different permits.
Is Fossil Creek in the Tonto National Forest?
Partly. It sits on the boundary between Tonto National Forest and Coconino National Forest. The Bob Bear Trailhead is on the Tonto side (from Strawberry), and the Dixon Lewis Trail is on the Coconino side (from Camp Verde). Each side has its own permit.
When is Fossil Creek open without a permit?
Late October through March. Exact dates vary each year, so check Recreation.gov. The water flows year-round, but off-season roads may be rough and restrooms may be closed.
Do I need a Tonto Pass for Fossil Creek?
No. Fossil Creek uses its own permit system ($6 via Recreation.gov, April through October). A Tonto Pass won't get you in.

Book Your Fossil Creek Permit

Permits are required April–October.

Reserve on Recreation.govTonto Pass Guide