In the Grand Canyon State, there are scores of hikes, easy and strenuous, that both wind through and lead to breathtaking scenery. The hike to Fossil Creek might be tough, but it is one of the best hikes near Strawberry, Arizona and you’ll have a wonderful reward awaiting you (and a chance to wash off the sweat and relax in beautiful water). What could be better than that? Check out this incredible crystal blue creek in Arizona for your next weekend adventure.

Fossil Creek is a popular swimming spot in Arizona, and it's easy to see why. Between the waterfalls, hiking trails, wildlife, and crystal blue water, it has everything you could want in one place. Have you ever seen water so clear before? We haven't either.
Coconino National Forest/Flickr
Fossil Creek is popular for swimming, especially in the summer months. Plus, the water remains a pleasant 70 degrees year-round, so you can enjoy it no matter if it's snowing or scorching outside.
Coconino National Forest/Flickr
The creek flows from Fossil Springs 14 miles where it meets the Verde River downstream of the Childs power plant. Water gushes out of a 1,600-foot deep canyon at a rate of 20,000 gallons per minute from a stream at the bottom. What amazing views of the Arizona landscape!
Coconino National Forest/Flickr

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You can access Fossil Creek one of two ways: by driving 14 miles down a rough dirt road where you'll find access points to the creek, or, the more fun way (in our opinion) - a strenuous four-mile hike one way and 1,500 feet of elevation down to the headwaters of Fossil Creek. This trail begins outside the town of Strawberry at the Fossil Springs trailhead parking lot.
Alan Stark/Flickr
There's also a waterfall trail at Fossil Creek that you won't want to miss. Located just outside of Camp Verde, it's one mile long and leads to this breathtaking destination.
Deborah Lee Soltesz/Flickr
Isn't that water just beautiful? It's rich in calcium, which creates a material called travertine. This rock-like substance encases whatever falls into the streambed, forming fossil-like formations, which gives the creek its name.
Greg Walters/Flickr
The fall colors at Fossil Creek are just one of the sights you'll get to enjoy on your hike! What spellbinding foliage.
Coconino National Forest/Flickr

Take this fun visual tour of the falls and the creek in this delightful video:

Have you ever been to this mesmerizing crystal blue creek in Arizona? Let us know how you liked it in the comments! For more information, visit the USDA Forest Service website.

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Marisa Roman | March 28, 2021

Where can I find the bluest water in Arizona?

Sometimes it's nice to feel like you’re in the tropics without ever needing to board a plane. Besides Fossil Creek in Arizona, what is another place where we can find crystal-clear blue water? Havasu Creek is likely the easiest and most popular answer. Located within the Grand Canyon, Havasu Creek is a stream that runs from Supai all the way to the Colorado River. Picture almost a milky, light blue color at this incredible creek. 

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There are so many wonderful swimming holes in Arizona, it’s hard to choose just one. So, why not choose a handful and make multiple day trips throughout the summer?! There are small, little-known swimming holes throughout the state, which end up being the most refreshing way to stay cool through the summer. From Grasshopper Point just a few miles north of Sedona to Lake Mohave on the west coast of the state, there are plenty of opportunities to get wet in nature. Check out this list of the 7 best swimming holes in Arizona with the clearest water.

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Fossil Creek, Arizona, USA