See Spring, Christopher Creek, Arizona

## Overview See Spring is a natural spring located near Christopher Creek in the Mogollon Rim region of Gila County, Arizona. Nestled within the Tonto National Forest at an elevation of roughly 7,000 feet, this spring sits in a forested landscape of ponderosa pine and mixed conifer — a striking contrast to the desert terrain Arizona is best known for. The Mogollon Rim, a dramatic 200-mile escarpment cutting across central Arizona, is home to numerous springs fed by snowmelt and rainfall percolating through layers of ancient sedimentary rock. See Spring is one such outlet, producing naturally flowing fresh water that visitors have historically used as a drinking water source. The water quality at See Spring has been reported by visitors as outstanding, with clear, cold water emerging from the forested hillside. The surrounding area offers beautiful scenery typical of the Rim Country — towering pines, rocky outcrops, and abundant wildlife. The spring is situated off the beaten path, so reaching it requires a capable vehicle and a willingness to navigate unpaved forest roads. ## Directions **Note:** The GPS coordinates listed for this spring (34.307144, -111.016846) may differ slightly from the user-submitted coordinates below. The submitter provided what they consider the more accurate pinpoint location at **34.35335418325044, -111.00757103222183**, which places the spring farther north along the Mogollon Rim. It is recommended to check both coordinates before your trip. 1. From Payson, Arizona, head east on **AZ Route 260** (the Rim Road) toward the Mogollon Rim. 2. Continue on Route 260 until you reach the **Mogollon Rim Visitor Center**. 3. At the visitor center area, look for a crossroad heading **north**. This is likely an unpaved or poorly maintained forest road — high-clearance or 4WD vehicles are strongly recommended. 4. Follow this road north until you reach the **Carr Lake Trailhead**. 5. At the crossing near Carr Lake Trailhead, take a **left turn**. 6. Take another **left** at the next junction to approach the spring area. 7. From where you park, expect a short walk of a few hundred feet to reach the exact spring location. *These directions are based on the original user submission and have not been independently verified. Forest roads in this area can be seasonal and may be closed or impassable during winter months or after heavy rain. Check with the Tonto National Forest ranger station for current road conditions before heading out.* ## What to Expect See Spring is a remote, backcountry spring — don't expect paved paths or signage. The surrounding Mogollon Rim country is rugged and beautiful, with excellent opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and photography. The Carr Lake Trailhead nearby provides access to additional trails along the Rim. The spring produces naturally flowing water year-round, though flow may vary seasonally. Visitors have reported the water tastes clean and refreshing, but as with any natural water source, conditions can change and no guarantees of purity can be made. A few things to keep in mind: - **Vehicle access:** The final stretch of road is unpaved and potentially rough. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended, and 4WD may be necessary in wet conditions. - **Timing:** Plan to arrive and depart during daylight hours. The area is remote, with limited cell service, and navigating forest roads after dark can be challenging. - **Wildlife:** The Mogollon Rim area is home to elk, deer, black bears, and mountain lions. Store food properly and be aware of your surroundings. - **Seasonal closures:** Some forest roads in the area close seasonally (typically during winter and early spring mud season). Check with the Payson Ranger District of the Tonto National Forest for current conditions. This is a wonderful destination for a day trip from Payson or a stop during a longer Rim Country adventure. Bring friends or family — the area offers plenty of space to explore and enjoy the high-country scenery that makes this part of Arizona so special.