If you're tired of the same old club scene and want to get in touch with nature over spring break, there's no better place to camp in Arizona than near the small town of Strawberry. Strawberry is the starting point of Forest Road, which winds its way down treacherous switchbacks, through a deep canyon and down to the trailhead of Fossil Springs.
Fossil Creek and Fossil Springs are little-known wonders of the "rim country" that is central Arizona. As this scenic canyon approaches the base of the Mogollon Rim, it suddenly transforms from a rather typical high desert canyon to an amazing water wonderland.
The trail first takes you across the actual Fossil Creek. Be prepared to get your feet wet because there is no dry point to cross, and the strong current can easily blow you over. There is a rope to hold onto, and one person in your group is just about guaranteed to fall in the creek and float downstream for 30 yards.
After crossing the creek, you witness four natural waterfalls flowing down the side of the canyon. Here is where the steepest and most challenging part of the hike lies. Fortunately, the uphill climb that leads to the switchbacks of the trail runs parallel to the waterfalls, which encourages you to keep on truckin'.
The hike then turns to more of a walk that is long and scenic. With warm temperatures and little shade, it becomes rather tedious. Though you can see the water for most of the hike, you can't actually get to it until you reach the campsite, so bring plenty of your own water to stay cool. The campsite is in an open area that is near a swimming hole and is ideal for tenting.
Also note: The Fossil Creek area is sometimes used by nudists. If that sort of thing bothers you, beware! If not, have fun!
Because of the spectacular views, lush greenery and lack of tourists, Fossil Creek and Fossil Springs are the perfect spring break getaways.
Location: Take I-17 north from Phoenix. Exit State Route 260 heading east to Camp Verde. Turn right on Forest Road 708 (sign says Fossil Creek) less than 10 miles from I-17. The forest road is very winding and also very wash boarded, but it's passable by standard vehicles if you take it slow.
Reach the reporter at tyler.thompson@asu.edu.
