Fossil Creek & Fossil Springs Guide

Permits, trails, and waterfall access for your visit.

Tonto Pass doesn't work here.

Grab a Recreation.gov permit instead.

$6/vehicle via Recreation.gov, April–October

Free November–March

Book on Recreation.gov
OverviewPermitsTrailsTipsFAQ
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About Fossil Creek

A spring-fed stream in central Arizona with turquoise pools, travertine waterfalls, and a swim-through cave. Fossil Springs pumps 20,000 gallons of 72°F water per minute year-round.

There are two separate waterfall areas miles apart with different trailheads and different permits: the Bob Bear Trail upstream (dam waterfall + cave) and the Dixon Lewis Trail downstream. A Tonto Pass does not work here.

Permits

$6/vehicle permit required April–October via Recreation.gov. Each side of the creek has a separate permit — book the one that matches your trailhead.

Tonto NF · from Strawberry

Bob Bear Trail

Book on Recreation.gov

Coconino NF · from Camp Verde

Dixon Lewis Trail

Book on Recreation.gov

Permits sell out fast. No cell service in the canyon — save your permit offline. Free November–March.

Trails

Moderate–Strenuous

Bob Bear Trail

Tonto NF · Dam waterfall & Mermaid Grotto · from Strawberry

AllTrails

The classic route to the dam waterfall and swim-through cave (Mermaid Grotto). Steep descent means a tough climb back out, so start early.

4 mi one way1,400 ft descentOut & back
Easy

Dixon Lewis Trail

Coconino NF · Downstream waterfall · from Camp Verde

AllTrails

Short walk to a separate downstream waterfall with swimming and cliff-jumping. Different waterfall from Bob Bear, with its own permit.

1 mi one wayMinimal elevationOut & back

Tips for Your Visit

  • Permits sell out fast. Set a reminder for when new dates drop on Recreation.gov.
  • Arrive by 8–9 AM. Parking fills up mid-morning during permit season.
  • No cell service in the canyon. Download your permit and maps before you go.
  • Bring water shoes. The creek bottom is rocky and the travertine gets slippery.
  • Dogs are prohibited April–October to protect the Wild & Scenic River ecosystem.
  • Carry-in, carry-out. No trash cans. Glass containers are prohibited.
  • Best for swimming May–September. October–March is free, uncrowded, and beautiful.

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 source — a natural spring that feeds the creek year-round. That water flows into Fossil Creek, which is the stream running through the canyon. Most people use the names interchangeably, and that's fine. The trails, permits, and swimming holes are all 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.

Reserve Your Fossil Creek Permit

Permits are required April–October via Recreation.gov.

Reserve on Recreation.govTonto Pass Guide