Best Day Hikes in Camp Verde City, Arizona

Ok... living in Arizona, hiking isn't always possible in the summer. I mean how much fun is it to hike in 110 degree weather? It's not... at all!!! But my perspective on hiking completely changed when I found Fossil Creek.

This 20 mile creek is full of fun and adventure, but is not so easy to get to. It is located just outside of Camp Verde City... but when I say just outside of, I mean a twenty mile dirt road drive outside of Camp Verde. However, don't let this scare you off! I have been there several times and each time I have seen numerous small cars do the drive. You don't need an off roading vehicle to get there.

After this 20 mile dirt road, you will come upon many different dirt parking lots. On the weekends these lots may be full, but during the week it's completely empty! Park at whatever lot, the further up you go the shorter the hike will be...obviously!

Ok, this hike really is amazing. As the hike begins it seems like it is going to be a strictly desert hike, but little do you know. The trail suddenly shoots down. And to my surprise... I began to hear the sound of a waterfall! As the trail and I approach the creek, I noticed the water was completely clear!

The greatest thing about this hike, is that Fossil Creek is a swimmer friendly creek. Along the trail there are many swimming pools with their own water fall! Better yet, the water is supplied by a hot spring, so the water is at a perfect temperature of 74 degrees year-round!

Now as the trail progresses, it becomes more difficult. I wouldn't recommend kids or elderly people. The trail ends at a thirty foot waterfall and a very deep pool. This waterfall is known for cliff jumping. 40-50 feet high cliffs surround this pool! Cliff jumping is a must, especially the cliff directly above the thirty foot cliff.

Fossil Creek has quickly became my favorite AZ hiking spot. I greatly enjoy it and I hope you will too!!!