Fossil Springs
Fossil Springs begin approximately three quarters of a mile above the old Fossil Creek Dam. A series of springs gush 20,000 gallons a minute year-round at the bottom of a 1,600 foot deep canyon, creating a lush riparian oasis rich with life, and feeding Fossil Creek Wild and Scenic River. Over the years these calcium laden waters have laid down huge deposits of a type of limestone called travertine, creating deep pools for miles along the creek. The Wilderness and surrounding area are on the Tonto and Coconino National Forests, and are managed by the Coconino National Forest.
During the spring-summer season, camping is prohibited in Fossil Springs Wilderness and the surrounding area, and a reserved parking permit is required to park at the trailheads that access the Wilderness. See Fossil Springs Wilderness and Fossil Creek on the USFS Coconino National Forest website for maps, regulations, permit reservations, and other details.
Photo by Deborah Lee Soltesz, August 9, 2016. Source: USFS Coconino National Forest. Original public domain image from Flickr