Fossil Creek & Fossil Springs Guide

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

What Is Fossil Creek?

Wild & Scenic

1 of 2 in Arizona

72°F

Year-round water temp

20,000

Gallons per minute

Fossil Creek is fed by Fossil Springs, a massive natural spring whose mineral-rich water creates striking travertine dams, turquoise pools, and waterfalls as it flows through a narrow canyon between the Tonto and Coconino National Forests.

People often use “Fossil Springs” and “Fossil Creek” interchangeably, but they’re distinct: Fossil Springs is the spring source, and Fossil Creek is the stream it feeds. There are two separate waterfall areas miles apart: the dam waterfall and cave near the springs (reached via Bob Bear Trail), and a downstream waterfall with swimming holes (reached via Dixon Lewis Trail). They require different permits, so read the trails and permits sections carefully.

The Bob Bear Trailhead sits on the Tonto National Forest side, so Fossil Creek is relevant to Tonto Pass visitors. However, it uses its own separate permit system, not the Tonto Pass.

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

Formerly the Fossil Springs Trail (#18). Descends ~4 miles from the Bob Bear Trailhead near Strawberry to Fossil Springs and the dam waterfall, the iconic spot with the large cascade and swim-through cave (sometimes called the Mermaid Grotto). Longer and harder, but takes you to the most famous features on the creek.

~4 mi one way1,400 ft descentModerate–strenuousOut & back

Dixon Lewis Trail

Coconino NF · Downstream Waterfall

A short, easy walk from the Dixon Lewis parking area (off FR 708 from Camp Verde) to a separate downstream waterfall with a swimming hole and cliff-jumping spots. A different waterfall from the dam/cave upstream, but much easier to reach. The parking lot fills up fast during permit season.

~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 day-use permit ($6 per vehicle) booked through Recreation.gov. From late October through March, no permit or fee is required. Permits are limited and sell out quickly, especially on weekends — book as early as possible.
What is the difference between Fossil Creek and Fossil Springs?
Fossil Springs is the natural spring source that produces roughly 20,000 gallons of constant 72°F water per minute. Fossil Creek is the stream fed by Fossil Springs, flowing through a canyon with travertine pools and waterfalls. When people say 'Fossil Springs waterfall' they usually mean the waterfalls along Fossil Creek.
How do I get to Fossil Springs waterfall?
There are two main trails that reach different parts of Fossil Creek. The Bob Bear Trail (formerly Fossil Springs Trail #18) starts on the Tonto National Forest side near Strawberry and descends about 4 miles (1,400 ft elevation loss) to Fossil Springs and the iconic dam waterfall with its swim-through cave. The Dixon Lewis Trail (Coconino NF side) is a shorter ~1-mile walk to a separate downstream waterfall with swimming holes. These are different destinations miles apart — make sure you book the right permit for the trail you want.
Is Fossil Creek in the Tonto National Forest?
Fossil Creek straddles the boundary between the Tonto National Forest and the Coconino National Forest. The Bob Bear Trailhead is on the Tonto NF side (accessed from Strawberry via Fossil Springs Road), while the Dixon Lewis Trail and other downstream access points are on the Coconino NF side (accessed via FR 708 from Camp Verde). Each side has its own separate permit on Recreation.gov.
When is Fossil Creek open without a permit?
Fossil Creek is open without a permit or fee from late October through March (exact dates vary slightly each year — check Recreation.gov). During the off-season, roads may be rough or gated, water levels are the same year-round since the springs flow at a constant rate, and facilities like restrooms may be closed.
Do I need a Tonto Pass for Fossil Creek?
No. Fossil Creek has its own separate permit system and is not covered by the Tonto Pass. During permit season (April–October), you need a $6 Recreation.gov day-use permit instead. During the off-season, no pass or permit is needed. A Tonto Pass will not get you into Fossil Creek.

Book Your Fossil Creek Permit

Permits are required April–October.

Reserve on Recreation.govTonto Pass Guide