At .8 miles, you will come to the first of four creek crossings. of swimming in a natural pool is not lost in Upstate New York. The FallGal and myself brought our 13 year old daughter along to fill her shoes. It’s difficult to describe to someone you spent the day swimming in “The Crack,” much less explain that it’s in “Wet Beaver Creek,” but don’t let a dirty joke deter you from one of Arizona’s better and lesser-trafficked natural swimming holes.. I’m dipping my toe into landscape photography and wanted to catch a good sunrise hike to test out my new (to me) Sony A7II. West Fork Oak Creek Trail: Easy hike with a nice swimming hole - See 1,237 traveler reviews, 688 candid photos, and great deals for Sedona, AZ, at Tripadvisor. Grasshoppers and coachman flies seemed to work well in August. You’re going to beat them up. This scenic watering hole near Aspen offers cliff jumping for the adventurous, since there are 20-foot rock walls surround the punchbowl. Some canyoneering is technical, requiring advanced skills in anchor building, rappelling, navigation, etc. This isn’t that sort of trip. CLEAR CREEK CAMPGROUND [CLEA]: Nice Forest Service campground with a swimming hole in West Clear Creek. Fun for kids, teens, adults. Cool water species such as smallmouth bass and green... Camp, Hike, Swim swim Swimming Hole hike Hiking Trail camp Campsite Bring duct tape! Bell Trail follows Wet Beaver Creek to one of the most sought-after swimming holes in the region: The Crack. Here are details on how to get there. West Clear Creek was always the most magical place in Arizona for this native son. This is a popular spot with an attractive kid friendly freshwater swimming hole and creek area. He is an aspiring surfer, member of the Southern California Mountaineers Association, and likes to explore mountains and canyons. A well-maintained dirt track allows cars to drive close to this oasis, leaving just a little under a mile of flat trail to the creek. This place can get packed, so get an early start and remember to practice the "pack it in, pack it out" philosophy when visiting. For me this is what West Clear Creek is all about. West Clear Creek flows along the boundary of this desert canyon country camp and is a popular place for hiking, swimming, wading and fishing. The road to Cash Tank Trailhead is no joke. We are missing Doc since she is still in Colorado "learning" stuff. It is around a mile or so heading down stream to get to this beautiful swimming hole. (It’s always advisable to have a paper map, even when you have a handheld GPS. ... about 30 kms west of Townsville, this is a popular bush swimming and camping spot. Take FR 81 for about 4 miles to FR 81E. Tweet Share Email. You will know that you’re exiting the central portion of West Clear Creek when you come to Big Spring. This swimming hole is at its best after a good wet season. The Mogollon Rim, Munds Mountain [Apache-Sitgreaves, Coconino, and Tonto National Forests] Map from National Geographic, Trails Illustrated covers the West Clear Creek Area, among others, and makes a good companion for your trip. A shallow pebbly beach entry is perfect for young families, and the deeper water will keep the big kids happy too. And it’s wise to pack for an extra night or two: extra fuel, water purification, and some dehydrated food, as well as a reliable first aid kit. West Clear Creek (WCC) Wilderness Area starts in the ponderosa pine forests on the north side of the Mogollon Rim, about 40 minutes southeast of Flagstaff. It winds along Wet Beaver Creek with several side trails down to the water. Blue Hole. Again, dogs not advised. West Clear Creek is well stocked by the forest service with brown trout and various other fish. WOW Brian! Mogollon Rim, Munds Mountain [Apache-Sitgreaves, Coconino, and Tonto National Forests] Map, Quartz Trail, McDowell Sonoran Preserve – Scottsdale, Arizona, Tonto Natural Bridge State Park – Payson, Arizona, Maverick Trail, Brown’s Ranch – Scottsdale, Arizona. Natural Atlas is powered by contributors like you. about 3 miles (each way) to swimming hole in Tea Creek . The scenery is stunning but the journey is challenging. (34°33’28.7″N 111°25’13.7″W)Source: USDA.gov From here you have options to swim, river hike, and fish, although the best swimming holes are deeper into the canyon. A well-maintained dirt track allows cars to drive close to this oasis, leaving just a little under a mile of flat trail to the creek. The route runs through a suspension bridge over Clear Creek and then on the right along the creek. Rewarding you with its twisting path downstream to serenity, solitude and canyoneering fun. When you think of a swimming hole, this is probably what you envisage: a large volume of water cascading into a big, deep pond flanked by 20-metre cliffs. Enjoy a picnic on the sandy beach and look up towards the top of the cliffs. Passage Creek in Virginia’s George Washington National Forest offers several spots for water lovers to play. The swimming hole is cool and refreshing about 5 kms along Alligator Creek Rd. While they are all worth exploring, the crown jewel of the region is West Clear Creek. I’m so glad to read some of the history of the cable down there on this site. The Calloway Trail takes you into the central portion of West Clear Creek. Coconino sandstone walls encase the lush canyon. You’ll get to see a nice section of the upper canyon, and a good swim. There are 40 fishable miles throughout the wilderness area. Near Trails. Hiking poles or a walking stick (which you’ll find plenty of along the way) are essential for keeping your balance on slick rocks in the river. Contribute. The waterfall is gorgeous, but it’s the setting and the remote nature of the swimming hole that provide the wow factor here. People know Camp Verde for its wineries and Out of Africa. From either access point, you’ll walk downstream for about three miles, to the next trail out of the canyon. If you’re ambitious enough, climb further up and you’ll find yet another swimming hole. Do keep in mind that the water’s temperature here is quite cold, even in the summer months. Superb Article–Thanks About .4 miles in you will see and old cabin that has cactus growing from the roof. Hard to imagine a better swimming hole than Bull Pen, a deep pool along West Clear Creek. Once on the canyon floor you will find yourself at a very shallow part of the creek. Are the hanging Gardens a part of the hike to Maiden Falls? Bell Trail. To get here, continue east on RT 260 past the turnoff for FR 618 (above) a short way to a sign for Clear Creek Campground. Not only is the swimming terrific; the natural scenery surrounding the swimming hole is absolutely beautiful. The FallGal and myself brought our 13 year old daughter along to fill her shoes. Drive 45 minutes south of Austin to reach the glorious Blue Hole, located just outside of Wimberley. First Post - West Clear Creek - Tramway Trail This beautiful canyon offers natural springs, secret side canyons, and ample pools for fishing and swimming. This trail eventually forks into two directing you to a serene sand and rock small beach on the creek bend. 2. This trail starts at the end of Bullpen Rd and your adventure begins in beautiful thickets of trees and plants. You’ll need a license, of course, which you can pick up in Flagstaff, Sedona, Camp Verde, or most likely one of the smaller towns in the area. Required fields are marked *. It makes up the bulk of the Arizona transition zone, bridging the Colorado Plateau, in the northeastern part of the state, and the Basin and Range region in the south. The swimming hole is about ¾ mile up the creek and you can’t miss it. Clear Creek Campground Camp Verde, Arizona 40.0 miles E. West Clear Creek flows along the boundary of this desert canyon country camp and is a popular place for hiking, swimming, wading and fishing. It's about 10 feet at its deepest but swim around before you decide to dive in because some areas are only a few feet deep. Impending weather should be considered a sign of a potential flash flood. Brian writes about science, conservation, and ways that people interact with nature for various publications, as well as his blog, briangruters.com. West Clear Creek near Hanging Gardens is so remote and difficult to reach that I only saw three people during the whole trip. We are missing Doc since she is still in Colorado "learning" stuff. Get ready to pick up and put down your pack and inner tube assembly ad nauseum. Day 1 The drive from the valley started at 5am on Saturday morning and… If you want to avoid some of the crowds at the Bull Pen Trailhead of West Clear Creek this may be your answer. A 2.5-mile natural trail with 20 stops and each stop is one of the native plant species. As always, be careful as this creek can flash flood during Monsoon rains. Click here for more information. If non-technical canyoneering and low-impact camping is your thing, you’ll be hard pressed to find a nicer place to pass a warm summer weekend. Hiking shoes—an old pair of tennis shoes will work fine. West Clear Creek Trail #17. Highlights of this section are the White Box narrows, a 70-yard swim through a corridor of ashen sandstone, and the Hanging Gardens waterfall, a mossy, drippy wonder with space for camping, about two miles south of Cash Tank. Go toward the campground and follow signs to the Day Use Area. West Clear Creek offers water holes for swimming, excellent fishing, and back country camping. First Post - West Clear Creek - Tramway Trail This beautiful canyon offers natural springs, secret side canyons, and ample pools for fishing and swimming. Walk the trails to discover this canyon that is rugged yet accessible and a great swimming opportunity. The route runs through a suspension bridge over Clear Creek and then on the right along the creek. The waterway forms a slender riparian corridor that … To access upper West Clear Creek from the north, near Happy Jack, AZ, you should plan to enter on the Tramway Trail, accessible from Forest Road 81E, off Lake Mary Road, 7 miles north of the split from state highway 87. The most popular swimming hole is next to the Elizabeth Furnace campground, but it can be quite busy on weekends. Trail. So beautiful! However you’re sure to cool off during summer’s hot weather. Red Creek drops sharply in the steep canyon to provide swimming holes and waterfalls. You’ll find this swimming hole about 15 miles east of Camp Verde along West Clear Creek. You just need to follow "Swimming Hole" signs. Hike to the … These spots mark the ends of a steep canyon that is known for waterfalls and slides. To float your pack there are two ready options: 1)  Bring an inner tube, inflate it, and set your pack across. Loved your article – glad to see you writing! Found in Australia’s North West, the famous fern pool is a peaceful haven tucked away in the Karijini National Park and is the perfect swimming hole for one of the country’s warmest regions. Some of the highlights of this hike are: beautiful scenery, amazing swimming holes, a super fun rope swing, and cliff jumping. 3. West Clear Creek is the longest drainage of the rim, winding for 30 miles and up to 2,000 feet below the rim. As Glendale High School kids we only knew of the route by word of mouth. Getting to West Clear Creek . This moderately easy to reach swimming hole is located about 15 miles east of Camp Verde along West Clear Creek. Learn about swimming holes such as West Clear Creek Trail No. Drive west out Clear Creek Road in southern Redding and head for the Clear Creek overlook. Nice swimming spots that are accessible exist along the first mile of the Red Creek Trail from the Laneville Trailhead. It is one of my favorite spots. Image of swimming, rocks, river - 2867133 More Links . A pleasant swimming hole in the West Clear Creek Wilderness in central Arizona. There is also a nice (primitive, backpacking) camping area right by the swimming hole where there may also be a lean-to for camping without a tent. Near Trails. After the fifth swim or so you stop deflating and inflating the tube, which means you’ll be hiking one-handed, carrying an inner tube, further exposing it to sharp plants. One of my favorite tram memories is two of us deciding to send our duffel ( no tech gear in those days) bag full of camping gear down the cable. There are two restrooms at the trailhead in case you need to use them before the 3.5-mile hike to the swimming hole. 15 miles west of Camp Verde on West Clear Creek, you’ll find the classic swimming hole called Bull Pen. The narrows close in to 30 feet in some places and rise 100 feet overhead. Its a deep remote canyon with a nice stream. In every corner of the state, there's a beautiful swimming hole to cool down with a relaxing dip in the crystal-clear water. Your email address will not be published. West Clear Creek I just took a three day two night trip into Clear Creek Wilderness in Arizona, with my friend Cliff. This is a popular summer swimming hole at a bend in Clear Creek. Shake the summer heat at some of the best swimming holes found in and around Austin. Before you get there, plan on making at least one short swim, and possibly more, depending on the water level. This part of the canyon the travel is rugged and difficult and will test even the most fit outdoor enthusiast. I can’t imagine driving there without in case it rained. There’s an out-and-back trail that’s two miles long that will take you to the falls, and the best place to take a dip is about halfway through that hike. West Clear Creek offers water holes for swimming, excellent fishing, and back country camping. Take Highway 89 from Sedona to Flagstaff, through Oak Creek Canyon, and you will encounter cliffs, spires, and winding switchback roads that lurch up 2000 feet over a few miles. Everywhere else all but guarantees solitude. To my knowledge there are no access point in this whole section (unless you rock climb). The West Clear Creek Wilderness, established in 1984, is a narrow but lengthy wilderness that follows the contours of West Clear Creek from its western terminus at Bull Pen Ranch to the headwaters of Willow Creek and Clover Creek to the north and east. Cool water species such as smallmouth bass and green... Camp, Hike, Swim swim Swimming Hole hike Hiking Trail camp Campsite Balancing your pack on the inner tube is tricky, especially when the water is moving quickly. Several portions of the river form narrows—high-walled sections where the river reaches from wall to wall—which are challenging yet gorgeous obstacles for anyone planning to hike. Losing your pack isn’t really a concern, but submerging it will add weight; and if you haven’t waterproofed well you could be in trouble. West Clear Creek From Flagstaff, take Lake Mary Road to Forest Road 81, which is about 7 or 8 miles past the Happy Jack Ranger Station. And lastly, the sections of river that are just slightly too shallow to float a pack through are numerous, like stones in the stream. Take Route 55 west from Front Royal for five miles and then turn south onto Fort Valley Road. Leslie. There is an amazing swimming hole with a rope swing located on Meadow Branch of Sleepy Creek Just below Devil’s Nose. West Clear Creek Swimming Hole is a swimming hole on West Clear Creek in Mogollon Rim, Coconino National Forest, AZ. After a long cold winter, many of the locals had Spring Fever and were more than ready to break out the tank-tops and flip-flops. This swimming hole is fed by a few waterfalls, so expect some clear and gorgeous water. Unlike its dammed sister East Clear Creek (dammed at Blue Ridge Res. Terry and I have been to this swimming hole 4 times now and have had it all to ourselves every time.There is no formal trail. You’ve got a deep hole for swimming and rocks to climb. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Photo about A pleasant swimming hole in the West Clear Creek Wilderness in central Arizona. About two miles downriver from Big Spring is a trail that continues through several campsites and finally leads to Bull Pen Ranch, just 12 miles east of Camp Verde, AZ. Local legend says the 8-year-old son of a rancher discovered the spot in the 1880s, and overheated locals and … Tweet Share Email. 15 miles west of Camp Verde on West Clear Creek, you’ll find the classic swimming hole called Bull Pen. West Clear Creek Swimming Hole is a swimming hole on West Clear Creek in Mogollon Rim, Coconino National Forest, AZ. At times smooth, and at others abrupt, this route passes by some of the Mogollon Rim’s most secluded canyons: Tonto Creek, Fossil Creek, Chevelon Canyon and West Clear Creek are just a few of the canyons in the area. The falls are actually a pleasant 40 … The trees didnt have leaves yet and the water was still pretty chilly, but that didnt stop us from getting into the summer spirit. Thick with vegetation and lacking much in the way of developed trails or signage, West Clear Creek Wilderness is true back country for most of its 40 or so miles, with limited access, by either vehicle or foot, along the way. The swimming hole can be accessed by a 0.1-mile easy trail from the parking area. You just need to follow "Swimming Hole" signs. This swimming hole is fed by a few waterfalls, so expect some clear … That has changed -- the state bought the land and now you walk right across it. West Clear Creek Camping: RV camping and tent camping is allowed outside of West Clear Creek Wilderness in the Coconino National Forest. May 4, 2012 - This is the closest we have been to a complete group on our overnights. Early on, a swimming hole … Devil’s Punchbowl is a local favorite swimming spot and for good reason. The water is always pretty cold so go in early Summer through early Fall when the temps are above 85 degrees.There are more areas to explore further down stream if you are into some bush whack and more slippery rocks. The swimming hole can be accessed by a 0.1-mile easy trail from the parking area. Learn about swimming holes such as Bullpen Day Use Area, Blodgett Basin Trail No. West Clear Creek. This is the last exit from the canyon for about two days. This is the heart of West Clear Creek Wilderness Area. Swimming through these sections is chilly work, requiring at least a basic idea of how to swim with a pack and keep your gear dry (discussed at the end of this article). In those days, we never encountered any other folk–just lots of trout and deer–and all that magnificent scenery. Notify me of follow-up comments by email. If you’ve been through hiking, that trail will come out of nowhere and be a very welcome sight. Ellery Creek Big Hole, West MacDonnell Ranges. I discovered the hard way by hiking this one alone. The swimming hole is about ¾ mile up the creek and you can’t miss it. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. Last week we listed the best swimming hole in every state in the nation. Plunge into the cool water for an invigorating swim at this natural waterhole near Alice Springs. Those comfortable driving at 60-miles per hour with the window down can experience pine scent in high relief, like the smell of smoke where nothing should be burning, as they wind their way out of the barren lands of southern Arizona. Being a significant Aboriginal site, the area has a very spiritual feel. Depending on where in the roughly 200-mile crosscut of Arizona you make this transition, the journey from desert to mountain can be smooth or abrupt. But this treasure isn’t without tribulations. The only tricks you’ll need here are floating a pack, and packing as lightly as possible. And very few people willing to do the hard work it takes to get to the best parts. You’ll come up to a natural waterslide that plunges into the swimming hole area. and again, in Winslow) this creek offers clearer water, bigger pools, chub fishing, and to me what seems like more resilient trout overall. Clear Creek Campground Camp Verde, Arizona 40.0 miles E. West Clear Creek flows along the boundary of this desert canyon country camp and is a popular place for hiking, swimming, wading and fishing. If you want to avoid some of the crowds at the Bull Pen Trailhead of West Clear Creek this may be your answer. Hard to imagine a better swimming hole than Bull Pen, a deep pool along West Clear Creek. West Clear Creek Trail is a 8.8 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Sedona, Arizona that features beautiful wild flowers and is rated as moderate. West Clear Creek From Flagstaff, take Lake Mary Road to Forest Road 81, which is about 7 or 8 miles past the Happy Jack Ranger Station. Rounded and smooth sandstone formations surround the waters and shady trees jut out of the rocks. About 3.5 miles into the hike, you'll stumble upon this picture-perfect desert oasis—a clear, cold, deep pool wedged in a slot canyon. It takes some route finding along the creek and negotiating some slippery rocks once in the creek but the payoff seems worth it. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); The next access point is the Calloway Trail (forest service trail #33), accessible from the south rim of the canyon, via Forest Road 142B, 6 miles south of the State Highway 87/Lake Mary Road split on Highway 87. Thanks for the valuable information. Bring layers. 2)  For a little more money you can invest in a light pack with holes to drain water, plus a dry bag, which will keep your stuff dry and—bonus—trap air so that your pack floats in the water. At its headwaters are Willow Creek and Clover Creek, whose waters converge and then flow through WCC’s serpentine maze of basalt and sandstone. You’ll come up to a natural waterslide that plunges into the swimming hole area. 17, Bullpen Day Use Area, Blodgett Basin Trail No. bobcat (creator) Teague O’Mara/Flickr. Clear Creek State Park: Swimming - See 85 traveler reviews, 76 candid photos, and great deals for Sigel, PA, at Tripadvisor. It is also home to some of Arizona’s most pristine and isolated beauty: the numerous canyons that wind their way through the Mogollon Rim are one of the state’s best kept secrets. Bob Crouch, Your email address will not be published. The real gem is Wet Beaver Creek, and, specifically, “The Crack” swimming hole — a mini-oasis amongst the rocky terrain. 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