Fossil Springs Arizona: Complete Guide to Hiking & Permits
Fossil Springs is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Arizona, known for its crystal-clear blue water, lush canyon scenery, and refreshing swimming spots tucked deep in the Coconino National Forest. Located near Camp Verde, this hidden oasis requires a bit of planning to visit—especially since a permit is required during peak season and there are multiple trail options to choose from. In this guide, I’ll break down everything you need to know about visiting Fossil Springs, including how to get a permit, the differences between the Bob Bear and Flume Trail routes, what to expect on the hike, and tips to make the most of your trip.
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Quick Guide to Fossil Springs
Fossil Springs is one of the most unique waterfall hikes in Arizona, known for its bright turquoise water, lush greenery, and refreshing swimming holes tucked into the desert landscape. Located near Camp Verde in the Coconino National Forest, it’s a bit more of an adventure to get to—which is part of what keeps it so special. There are a few different ways to reach Fossil Springs depending on how far you want to hike, including the popular Bob Bear Trail, the more gradual Flume Trail, and a shorter waterfall route with easier access.
Where is Fossil Springs?
Fossil Springs/ Fossil Creek is located in Northern Arizona. There are multiple ways to access the area, which we will get into. It takes about 1.5-2 hrs depending on where in the valley you are coming from. It is located between Strawberry/Pine area and Camp Verde. If you’re not overly familiar with the area, it is southeast in relation to Sedona and Flagstaff, northwest to Payson.
What is the Best Time to Visit Fossil Springs?
Time of the Year
A Permit is Required from April 1- October 1 (the summer season). This is when people primarily visit, as it’s warmer and they seek the relief of the cool Fossil Springs water. Although swimming is best in summer, this season is the HOTTEST, so you need to be smart, because the hike in is long. Both times I went in May. I would suggest April-May or October-November.
Time of the Day
The parking gates from both directions open at 8am and close between 3-4pm. They are day use parking lots, you cannot park overnight. You need to be in before 4 on the Bob Bear Side and 2pm on the Camp Verde Side, but you can get out afterwards. They don’t want people parking in the dark, for good reason. I suggest starting at 8am or 2pm (you can always wait in your car a while) to minimize your time in the heat of the day.
Fossil Springs Permit: How to Get One
Permits are required from April 1- October 1- the busy season via recreation.gov. Once I go over trail options below, I will give you the specific permit links!
“During this season, a maximum of one permit per person per calendar month may be reserved (one permit=one day).” Permits are made available on the first of the month one month ahead of time. For example, permits for the month of April are available beginning March 1.
The permit allows parking for one vehicle only at your chosen parking lot. Maximum vehicle length is 22 ft. All persons listed on the permit must be accommodated inside the vehicle with a legal seatbelt. The permit guarantees parking within the specified parking lot, but specific parking space assignments are not made. Parking spaces are occupied on a first-come, first-serve basis.”
Fees are $6 per car. Permits for April are released on March 1, April 1 for May dates, etc.
For the Fossil Creek side, 20% of permits are released 3 days prior. “For example, if you wanted a permit for August 4th and were unable to secure a permit one month in advance, permits will be available for purchase for that date on August 2nd at 7:00 a.m. Arizona Mountain Standard Time.”
Fossil Springs Trail Options: Which Route Should You Choose?
There are a few different ways to reach Fossil Springs, and the best option depends on how far you want to hike and what kind of experience you’re looking for. Most people choose between the popular Bob Bear Trail or the more gradual Flume Trail, while a shorter waterfall access route is also available depending on road conditions and parking access. Here’s a brief overview of the trails:
Fossil Springs vs. Fossil Creek
It is VERY important that you understand the difference between Fossil Springs and Fossil Creek. Although the two waterfalls are only a few miles apart, to get to the parking lots for each takes HOURS. Not many people see both waterfalls at the same time either. So let’s get into each waterfall, parking lots, and the permit process.
Fossil Creek via Waterfall Trail
As I show in the photo above, Fossil Creek is accessible from Camp Verde. If you’re at the closest parking lot, it is 2.6 mi RT and does NOT have a lot of elevation gain. This tends to be the most popular for families because it’s not as much work to get to. Both are beautiful and have that same clear, clean, blue water. I don’t know the exact heights, but Fossil Creek is not as tall as Fossil Springs.
Fossil Springs via Flume and Bob Bear Trail
Fossil Springs is HARDER to get to. You need to be prepared, from either direction. Summer is HOT and dry. You won’t have access to water for the whole trail either. Fossil Springs is popular amongst adventurers, or high adventurers as I may say. On top of the waterfall, there is also a popular large cave where the water looks VERY BLUE, that is popular for photos and videos. You can go to Strawberry, AZ and hike the Bob Bear Trail to get here OR go via Camp Verde and hike the Flume Trail. I have done both directions. Bob Bear Trail is a bit shorter. Both have similar elevation gain.
Hiking to Fossil Springs: Bob Bear Trail
The Bob Bear Trail is the most popular way to reach Fossil Springs—and for good reason. This route is shorter and takes you directly to the main waterfall and swimming area.
- Distance: ~4 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate to difficult (steep on the way back up)
- Best for: First-time visitors, waterfall access, shorter hike
- What to expect: A steady descent into the canyon with shade along parts of the trail, ending at the iconic waterfall and bright blue pools
Parking at Bob Bear Trail
You won’t have an issue parking at Bob Bear, as there are enough spots for everyone with a permit. We started at 8am and were one of the first ones there- secured a shaded spot!! The trailhead has very clean pit toilets and trash, as you can see below. There was a bit of a dirt road to get to the trailhead, but very short.
The Trail to Fossil Springs
The trail is pretty narrow and rocky, but not too bad! There is limited shade, as trees are SHORT. The views are good, but the best of it is at the end. Definitely bring a friend or a group- it makes the time pass more quickly! It is dog-friendly and my dog is very adventurous, but due to the length and the heat, I chose not to take her and I felt it was the best decision. It took us 25-30 min per mile, so 2 hours down and 2 hours up.
Hiking to Fossil Springs: Flume Trail
The Flume Trail is a longer but more gradual option that offers scenic views along the way and tends to be less crowded than Bob Bear.
- Distance: ~10 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Best for: Avoiding crowds, a more gradual incline, scenic hiking
- What to expect: A longer route that follows an old flume system with beautiful canyon views before reaching Fossil Springs
Parking
If you plan on hiking to Fossil Springs via the Flume Trail, you’ll come from Camp Verde. This route has a 14 mile washboardy dirt road- keep this in mind. You shouldn’t need 4×4, but high clearance is important.
Parking wise, get a permit for Irving/Flume Trailhead if possible. The parking lots are far apart and you don’t want to add to your already-long hike.
road to fossil springs from camp verde
The Trail to Fossil Springs
The Flume Trail starts by crossing the creek, actually. It’s so clear and beautiful. Then you gradually follow the trail up the side of the canyon until you reach the falls. I like the views on the Flume Trail more than on Bob Bear Trail. We actually mountain biked the trail (did it in college- college kids are nuts, haha). This trail is rocky as well, but not as narrow.
This was one of those low-quality photo, high-quality people days, haha.
What to Expect at Fossil Springs
Let’s go over what to expect when you reach Fossil Springs, no matter from which direction. You’ll be ON TOP of the falls, seeing down into the small canyon. You’ll see signs pointing you in the correct direction, along with signs saying that you can’t camp or have campfires.
Top Of Fossil Springs
You can see in the photo above a circular “hole” that water is rushing into. This is called “The Toilet Bowl” because of the rapid circular spinning of the water. Unfortunately, many people have died trying to swim in here. There is an underwater arch/cave that connects The Toilet Bowl to the calm waters, It is not worth it. The same week I did this hike, two college kids died getting in here.
Bottom Of Fossil Springs
This part of the waterfall is safe to swim in, but I would still suggest not getting too close to the edges or to the fall itself. Mother nature can be brutal. Be careful! The water is sooooo refreshing in the middle of the summer.
The Cave
The cave at Fossil Springs is almost cooler than the waterfall itself! For whatever reason, the water looks SOOOO CLEAR AND SOOOO BLUE in this cave. It is located just downstream from the falls ACROSS the creek- it’s large and obvious. It’s all in the same area- trust me, you’ll find it. If you’re not comfortable swimming, bring flotation gear. In the cave, there are lot of “shelves” or places you can hold onto and enjoy the water. If you want to take some videos underwater, grab THIS PHONE CASE!
What to Bring to Fossil Springs
Fossil Springs is a bit more remote than your average Arizona hike, so coming prepared is key—especially since you’ll likely be hiking several miles and spending time swimming at the waterfall.
Here’s what I recommend bringing:
- 💧 Plenty of water – There’s no potable water available, and the hike back out can be steep and hot
- 🥾 Sturdy hiking shoes – The trail can be rocky and uneven, especially on the way back up
- 🩴 Water shoes or sandals – The creek has slippery rocks, making these super helpful for exploring and swimming
- 🧴 Sunscreen – Even with some shade, the Arizona sun is strong—especially in warmer months
- 🧢 Hat + sunglasses – Extra sun protection goes a long way on the hike out
- 🥪 Snacks or a packed lunch – This is the perfect spot to hang out for a few hours
- 🎒 Backpack – To comfortably carry everything in and out
- 🗑 Trash bag – Pack out everything you bring in (this area is protected and well-maintained because of it)
- 🧻 Toilet paper or wipes – There are limited facilities, so it’s best to be prepared
- 📱 Downloaded maps – Cell service is very limited in this area
- 🩱 Swimsuit + towel – You’ll definitely want to get in the water
Final Thoughts on Visiting Fossil Springs
Fossil Springs is easily one of the most unique and rewarding waterfall hikes in Arizona, offering a rare mix of bright turquoise water, lush canyon scenery, and refreshing swimming spots that feel worlds away from the desert. While it does take a bit more planning—between securing a permit, choosing the right trail, and preparing for the hike—the experience is more than worth it.
Whether you take the shorter Bob Bear Trail, opt for the more gradual Flume Trail, or find a quicker route to the waterfall, each option leads to one of the most beautiful hidden gems in the state. It’s the kind of place you’ll want to spend a few hours relaxing, swimming, and soaking in the scenery.
If you’re looking for more places like this, be sure to check out my guides to Arizona swimming holes, waterfalls in Arizona, and hikes near Phoenix to keep exploring.
