Arizona's Most Refreshing Hike Will Lead You Straight To A Beautiful Swimming Hole
By Katie Lawrence|Published May 31, 2019
×
Katie Lawrence
Author
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015.
Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).
It’s no secret that Arizona summers can be absolutely brutal. The only way to avoid being pent up indoors all season long is to find the best places to cool off, and this stunning swimming hole is one such spot. The next time you’re in the Mogollon Rim area, consider devoting a day to hiking the Bell Trail to a pristine tropical oasis that is the perfect place to spend a summer afternoon. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy by the water after diving in to cool off!
Though officially rated as moderately difficult, we consider this trail fairly easy compared to others in the area. The Bell Trail is dog-friendly (on leash) and is open year-round. For more information, visit the Forest Service website here.
To reach the Bell Trail from Flagstaff, head south on Interstate 17 for 40 miles to the AZ-179 interchange. Turn east beneath the highway and continue driving for 1.5 miles to the old Beaver Creek Ranger Station turnoff. From here, continue north for just 0.25 miles and you’ll arrive at the parking area and trailhead.