Fossil Spring, Strawberry, Arizona

## Overview Fossil Spring is a remarkable natural spring located within the Tonto National Forest, near the small community of Strawberry in Gila County, Arizona. The spring emerges from the side of a limestone escarpment, feeding into the lush Fossil Creek drainage — a striking ribbon of green that contrasts vividly with the surrounding high desert and pine forests of the Mogollon Rim country. According to the Gila County Hydrogeologist, Fossil Spring produces some of the best water in Arizona. The spring flows from ancient limestone formations, and the water is rich in dissolved calcium carbonate — the same mineral responsible for the travertine deposits and "fossil" formations that give the spring and creek their name. Historically, the spring has been valued as a drinking water source by locals and hikers alike, though visitors should note that no natural water source can be guaranteed safe without treatment. Fossil Creek, fed by Fossil Spring, was designated a Wild and Scenic River by Congress in 2009, making it one of only two such rivers in Arizona. The creek's flow — estimated at roughly 20,000 gallons per minute from the spring system — supports a rare riparian ecosystem that includes native fish species and lush vegetation in an otherwise arid landscape. The area holds cultural significance for indigenous peoples of the region and has a long history of human use stretching back centuries. ## Directions The trailhead is accessible by most vehicles, though the last portion of the road is unpaved. 1. Follow **Highway 87** north toward Payson. You will pass through the communities of **Pine** and **Strawberry**. 2. After Strawberry, turn **left onto Fossil Creek Road**. 3. Continue on Fossil Creek Road for approximately **5 miles**. The first 2 miles are paved; the remaining 3 miles are a well-maintained dirt road passable by most cars. 4. About 5 miles down Fossil Creek Road, you will see a **left turn leading to a parking area**. This is the trailhead. **Trailhead GPS:** N 34° 24.402' W 111° 34.106' **Spring GPS:** N 34° 25.457' W 111° 34.400' **Trailhead Elevation:** 5,600 ft **Spring Elevation:** 4,320 ft **Elevation Change:** 1,280 ft **Round Trip Distance:** ~7 miles **Difficulty:** Moderate (6 out of 10) ## What to Expect The trail begins with a steady downhill descent from the rim, offering sweeping views of the **Mogollon Rim**, surrounding pine forests, and the valley mesas below. The path is well-traveled and easy to follow. As you descend, you'll notice a dramatic shift in the landscape — the dry pine forest gradually gives way to a brilliant band of green vegetation marking the spring-fed riparian zone. This visual transition is one of the hike's highlights and signals that you're approaching Fossil Spring. Before reaching the spring, you'll cross a rocky riverbed. During drier periods this may be mostly dry, but the boulders are large and stable enough to walk across even when water is present. The spring itself becomes apparent where the vegetation shifts from leafy riparian growth back toward pine — look for water flowing directly out of the ground from the limestone formation. This is a popular spot for visitors to collect water, and locals familiar with the area can point out additional places where water emerges directly from the rock face. The water from Fossil Spring has been reported to taste exceptionally clean and pure, with its high mineral content giving it a distinctive character. The travertine-rich water creates beautiful blue-green pools and natural dams downstream along Fossil Creek. **Seasonal Notes:** The Fossil Creek area is subject to a **permit system** during peak season (typically April through October) managed by the U.S. Forest Service. Visitors should check with the Tonto National Forest for current permit requirements and road access conditions before planning a trip. Summer temperatures at the lower elevation near the spring can be significantly warmer than at the trailhead. The hike back out is entirely uphill, so plan accordingly and bring plenty of water for the return climb.