The Crack at Wet Beaver Creek: An Arizona Water Hike
Summer in Arizona means it is time for water hikes and swimming! The Crack at Wet Beaver Creek is a great hike in Coconino National Forest near Sedona, Arizona. It does include a 7 mile hike, so you need to be prepared to be exposed to the sun- which I will help you with! If you’re looking for an adventure that includes canyon views and a beautiful swimming hole with some cliff jumping, this is the hike for you! “The Crack” at Wet Beaver Creek is one of the best summer hikes in Arizona.
This post contains affiliate links that I do profit from, if you choose to support my business. These links are at no cost to you.
Where is “The Crack” in Arizona??
The Crack at Wet Beaver Creek is located in Northern Arizona. If you’re coming from Phoenix, Arizona, you’ll drive 1-1.5 hrs north on I-17 to the 179 which is the same turn-off for Sedona (the closer turn-off, that is- you can also get to Sedona via Cottonwood). You’ll turn RIGHT to Wet Beaver Creek instead of turning LEFT to go to Sedona.
What Time Is Best to Visit The Crack at Wet Beaver Creek
Time of the year
No Permits or Fees are Required all year round. Most people hike from May-October. I went in June, I believe. Keep in mind, it is HOT (usually 10-15 degrees less than Phoenix, but still hot) so you need to be smart, because a 3.5 mile hike in is decently long. I would suggest April-May or October-November. If you’re going to go June-August, go at sunrise or sunset.
Time of the Day
There are no gates, the parking lot is open all day so you can go at sunrise, sunset, or anytime during the day. Like I mentioned above, keep in mind the temperature during the day in the summer. You need sun protection, proper shoes, and proper hydration.
I’ve Created a FREE Summer hiking guide for you!
Wanting to upgrade your hiking gear/outfits? I’ve been working on creating COLORFUL, functional, and minimal weight outfits to maximize my comfort! I myself are from Arizona, but clothing choices are applicable to Hawaii as well. Download my free guide with links!
Hiking to The Crack at Wet Beaver Creek
Parking
Once you turn off the I-17 and turn right, you drive 2.1 miles until the end of the road and you will see a dirt parking lot for The Bell Trail, the trail to The Crack at Wet Beaver Creek. Parking is free and you do not need permits. Always remember to leave no trace.
Click Here to View the Trail on AllTrails.
The Bell Trail
The Trail to “The Crack” at Wet Beaver Creek is called The Bell Trail. This trail is 7 miles long, which is a bit long. The elevation gain is slow and steady and not too bad for the 3.5 mile hike in. You need to be protected from the sun, because this hike has very limited shade. I remember feeling that the 3.5 miles in felt quick, but felt HOT on the way out. Conditions are sandy at times and bushes can be overgrown at time. I’d call it a moderate hike. I would NOT recommend bringing dogs because of how hot it gets out here.
Fossil Springs via Bob Bear Trail
As you may notice, most people are wearing sandals for the hike. I love wearing my sandals for water hikes, but hiking 7 miles in them is a bit long for me, and after being wet can cause blisters. I prefer to hike in trail runners and dry socks, change into sandals for swimming, and then put shoes back on.
Wet Beaver Creek- The Destination
“The Crack”
The end of this hike is referred to as “The Crack” as the canyon becomes more narrow. This area is full of beautiful areas to go swimming. In addition, there are cliffs that people cliff jump from.
As a medical provider trained in Wilderness Medicine, I suggest the utmost caution when cliff jumping. I have seen many young patients become paralyzed cliff jumping, as it is very hard on your central nervous system to hit the water from a high distance. I know it’s fun, just be careful please!
Gear to Hike to The Crack at Wet Beaver Creek
It’s hard to plan for water hikes, in my opinion. What shoes do you wear? What do you bring for being in the water? Is it worth bringing a separate swim suit, etc? Here’s what I bring!
First, YOU NEED SUN PROTECTION. To achieve this, I wore a visor, sunglasses, and this Mountain Hardwear Crater Lake Sun Hoodie. Underneath, I just wore a sports bra. Shorts wise, I’m wearing my REI Amphib Shorts– very comfortable and light. I always recommend Darn Tough Socks– my most comfortable and sweat-wicking socks. I always debate between Boots and Trail Runners for hiking and for this one decided on my light, mobile Altra Timp 5 Trail Runners. I did separately bring my Teva Sandals to swim in, and a swimsuit (I changed in and out of it by holding my Nomadix Towel around me). This towel is perfect as it is compact, but very wicking.
