Fossil Springs

Fossil Springs is one of the best places I have hiked since moving to Arizona 6 years ago. The reason it is literally an oasis tucked away in canyon. The hike begins near Strawberry, Arizona at the base of the Mogollon Rim. The trail starts at the top and descends just under 4 miles into a canyon. This area is wilderness and the trail is an old road used to access the dam in the canyon. The descent is gradual but remember 4 miles down means 4 miles back up and out at the end of the day. You can see the trail winding its way down into the canyon as you hike along. It took us about 1 3/4 hours to hike down and that was at a slow pace.

Once you reach the bottom of the canyon, you will come to a fork. Take the trail to the left to Fossil Springs Dam. You will soon come to a dry creek bed which we mistook for Fossil Springs, do not let this fool you, continue along the trail and cross over the creek bed. Approximately 100 yards later you will find yourself in a thick vegetated area. The trail will fork again to your left- which appears as a side trail. Take this fork and it will lead you to the hidden oasis of Fossil Springs. You will cross over the spring where it bubbles up and out of the ground. We actually filled our water bottles with this fresh water before our hike out.

The natural spring produces an amazing amount of water and forms swimming holes and waterfalls. Rope swings have been attached inviting you to jump into the water and cool off from your hike down. Once you've enjoyed this swimming hole head further down the trail about 1/4 of a mile and you will come to the Fossil Creek Dam. (This is currently being taken down as of 2009). A nice flowing waterfall forms here, and their are alcoves which have been cut out by the water you can swim into. The water here is amazingly clear blue. Rope swings are also at this location.

Plan on spending the majority of your time enjoying this little oasis. Many people backpack down and spend the night. Remember the hike out is long, up hill the entire way, and exposed to the sun pretty much at all times. WATER, WATER, WATER is a must have for this hike!!!!!! Oh and bug spray!!!


Length: 7.75 mile round trip
Elevation Change: 1280 feet
Difficulty: Moderate- the hike is not difficult but long and exposed
Hiking Time: Full day
Directions from Phoenix: Hwy 87 North towards Payson. Drive thru Payson to Strawberry. At Strawberry take a left on Fossil Creek Road. Stay on it for about 5 miles. The first 2 miles is paved, the next 3 miles will be on a well-maintained dirt road that any car can drive on. After about 5 miles you'll see a turnoff that leads to a parking lot on the right side.
Trail Information: RANGER DISTRICT
Payson Ranger Station
1009 East Highway 260
Payson, Arizona 85541
Phone (928) 474-7900
Fax (928) 474-7999