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Fossil Creek & Fossil Springs Guide
Permits, trails, and waterfall access for your visit.
- $6/vehicle, April–October
- Free November–March
Reserve a Permit Before You Go
A Tonto Pass doesn't work here. Grab a Recreation.gov permit instead: $6 per vehicle, required April through October.
Each side of the creek has a separate permit — book the one that matches your trailhead.
Tonto NF · from Strawberry
Bob Bear Trail
Moderate–Strenuous · 4 mi one way · 1,400 ft descent · Out & back
Coconino NF · from Camp Verde
Dixon Lewis Trail
Easy · 1 mi one way · Minimal elevation · Out & back
Permits are sold on Recreation.gov.
The Two Waterfalls
A spring-fed stream in central Arizona with turquoise pools, travertine waterfalls, and a swim-through cave. Two separate waterfall areas sit miles apart, each reached from its own trailhead.
Dam waterfall & Mermaid GrottoThe classic route to the dam waterfall and swim-through cave (Mermaid Grotto). Steep descent means a tough climb back out, so start early.Bob Bear Trail
Downstream waterfallShort walk to a separate downstream waterfall with swimming and cliff-jumping. Different waterfall from Bob Bear, with its own permit.Dixon Lewis Trail
72°F spring water, year-roundFossil Springs pumps 20,000 gallons per minute. Best for swimming May–September.
The off-seasonOctober–March is free, uncrowded, and beautiful.
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.
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 you 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.
Planning More of the Forest?
Most Tonto sites need the $8 Tonto Pass. See where it's required and where to buy it.