Everyone In Arizona Must Visit This Epic Natural Spring As Soon As Possible

Located within the Verde Valley, Sycamore Canyon is the second largest canyon in Arizona and is home to some fantastic trails and beautiful wilderness. The major waterway here is Sycamore Creek, which runs through the canyon and creates a lush riparian environment in the desert. Parsons Spring, located several miles into the canyon, empties into a massive pool that is perfect for swimming.

Alan English CPA/Flickr

Getting to Parsons Spring requires driving 11 miles down a dirt road (FR 131) and then a four-mile hike from the trailhead through the canyon via Parsons Trail #144. The hike is a relatively easy one, although it does require crossing the creek a few times. The trail is well-defined and shaded by towering sycamores, cottonwoods, and other local trees. In some areas you can spot centuries-old petroglyphs.

Alan English CPA/Flickr

Just shy of four miles sits Parsons Spring, which empties 5,000 gallons per minute into a huge pool. The size varies during the year, so some seasons it looks to be the size of an Olympic-sized pool and at other times, it is even bigger! The water itself ranges from crystal clear to a muddy red.

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This area of Sycamore Canyon tends to be the busiest but it is still a much smaller crowd than you might see in other similar areas since it requires more hiking than some people are willing to do. Most people tend to visit in the spring or fall, when heat is less intense. Summer can be an iffy time to visit: monsoon storms cause flooding and day temperatures can be stifling for those not used to physical activity in the heat.

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Max Rae/Flickr

Nonetheless, it makes a wonderful day trip that combines a beautiful natural setting with refreshing water. Just remember to check the weather forecast, leave no trace, and stay vigilant for snakes and other wildlife.

If you want to see what to expect on a hike here, check out this video from Youtube user cw50must.

For more details on visiting Parsons Spring, check out the National Forest Service website. They provide directions to the trailhead and a map, as well as other activities in the area.

Looking for some other hikes that will lead you to a cool water destination? Be sure to take a look at our article from June, “These 8 Water Hikes In Arizona Will Keep You Cool This Summer.”