These days its more party vibe than cattle drive along the 1.5-mile stretch of Houston Mesa Road, where a string of day-use sites collectively known as Water Wheel attracts hordes of heat-weary city folks. Travelling with a handicap person so no hiking. 100% of travelers recommend this experience. For the most part it worked well, but I was disappointed to see a fair amount of ghosting artifacts in the clouds. Warningrattlesnakes are out! Swim, jump from the boulders and have a relaxing picnic before beginning the 4-mile return hike to the Parsons Trailhead. This video is private About The Sycamore Canyon Wilderness It is the second largest canyon in Arizona. Also known as "The Jug", this is a hike and swimming hole unique from any other in Arizona. Awesome trail with swimming holes, clear water, forest greenery, spots to camp for backpacking, gorgeous canyon views. Incredible amounts of dead and burned tree flotsam from a fire and a flood that blocks the view to the creek that runs along the trail. We sold our stuff and bought a truck and RV (all within 5 months). Great view of the canyon from there..looks like a "mini-grand canyon" with ridges rising several thousand feet above the bottom. Went early in AM and beat the heat. View full map. We found a baby scorpion hiding under a rock (which all four of our kids loved), along with a woolly aphid. As the canyon is largely uninhabited by humans, visitors can enjoy amazing diversity in wildlife. I want to hike again to see the changes and enjoy being out there again. A little tricky to follow for river crossings, but just takes a little attention. Signs warn of washed out trail and fire damage which we found to be true in many spots. Sycamore Falls and the Grundy Day Loop feature just over 3 miles of hiking trail with countless creek access points, swimming holes, and waterfalls. we added 2.5 miles of putzin around. We hiked the Sycamore Rim Trail which was wonderful. There is a lot of overgrowth and thorns, especially as you get further in. Wet Beaver CreekWet Beaver Creek is a 3.5-mile outdoor water park flanked by cacti-ensconced crags and sheer sandstone bluffs. North Sylamore Creek is located in Stone County in north-central Arkansas. Create an account to follow your favorite communities and start taking part in conversations. While youre in Lake Havasu City, take advantage of thefree public beaches. Black's Beach. More:Guides to 8 of the most popular Arizona State Parks. trail is fairly easy going. Campground was closed (seasonal closure) . A short morning drive (approximately two hours) north of Scottsdale leads to the Verde Valley and a remarkable collection of tumbling streams. Easy hike, stunning views. Turn left onto FR 618 and drive 2.2 miles to FR215. At many points we found ourselves off trail, walking over fallen trees and brush and a lot of navigating and bushwhacking was required. In 0.2 mile you can see the trail continuing south traversing the slope. 6. 5 Top countries. Lots of flood debris, way more than last time we did this hike in 2019. Unfortunately this trail is currently closed. India . Perhaps it would be a different story if you go after heavy rains. Great hike. The evidence of mother natures power was very cool. Park at the end of the road where the Sycamore Canyon trailhead sign is. Schufelewrtschaft. hardest part was coming back out of the canyon. This gorgeous waterfall in the Grand Canyon is undoubtedly a destination spot requiring a 10-mile hike to the falls (and the same 10 miles back). The youngest 9-1/2 had no problem on trail with her 15# pack. SYCAMORE CANYON SWIMMING HOLE HIKE | EXPLORING COTTONWOOD & JEROME, AZ | RV LIFE No views May 22, 2022 Hi! When it comes to fun on the water, lets not overlook the Big Kahuna the Colorado River. Parsons SpringSycamore Canyon Wilderness begins with a crack on the Ponderosa pine-cluttered edge of the Colorado Plateau near Williams and ends with a splash at one of Arizonas most classic swimming holes north of Clarkdale. Pools form along the way, creating rippled mirrors reflecting the lush canopy of treetops and high cliffs that surround the water. The dirt road has a couple of rough spots but is usually accessible to sedans. Yesterday the wife and I decided on a hike in the remote Sycamore Canyon Wilderness (just to the west of Sedona, AZ), with the destination being this idyllic swimming hole found along Sycamore Creek. The Allens Bend Trail follows Oak Creek for those looking to stretch their legs on a short hike. 7/2/22, Trail closed from 7/7/22 until end of monsoon season due to flash flood danger. A ELEVATION: 3,700FACILITIES: RestroomFEE: NoneDOGS: Controlled/leashed allowedGETTING THERE: From Phoenix, drive north on Interstate 17, take exit 285 for General Crook Trail and turn right. You will need a high clearance vehicle or AWD to get to the trailhead. Aztec Falls - This is one of the most popular swimming holes near Lake Arrowhead in the San Bernardino Mountains, and one look explains why. Saw what looked like a mine entrance a ways back so decided to check it out but once again was too deep of water to cross to get to it. Press J to jump to the feed. Its best to see this canyon in the afternoon so there aren't many shadows. Also is it necessary to have AWD? It was much easier than the Humbug trail hike. Sorry to hear what nature has done, I did this trail a few years ago during fall colors and it was a truly beautiful hike. Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Photos (774) Directions Print/PDF map Length 7.3 miElevation gain 810 ftRoute type Out & back Explore this 7.3-mile out-and-back trail near Clarkdale, Arizona. Keep yourself safe. 1060 N. Main St., Cottonwood, 928-202-3597, boccecottonwood.com. The 40-acre Rotary Beach has picnic tables, play areas for kids, barbecues, volleyball courts, bocce ball courts, a skate park and a designated swim area. Kinder CrossingBraving the steep, rocky and winding three-quarter-mile path that descends 500 feet from Kinder Crossing Trailhead #19, youre rewarded with a pine- and alder-flanked clearing and a mossy, sandy beach abutting the soft trickle of East Clear Creek. Sabino Canyon Recreation Area Visitors Center, 5700 N. Sabino Canyon Rd., 520-749-8700, sabinocanyon.com, 3 CREEKS NEAR PAYSON[Easy] Salome Creek The Jug: The western part of the Sierra Ancha Wilderness near Roosevelt Lake, known as The Jug, is a hikeable, green-water-filled granite slot canyon carved by Salome Creek that demands wading. Once in Cottonwood, go straight through town on Main Street and Broadway (US 89A), following the signs to Tuzigoot National Monument toward Clarkdale. Roger Naylor is an Arizona travel writer and author. 336 SR 179, Sedona, 928-282-4838, tlaq.com. Nice trail. They are our sanctuaries from the rising heat. Tumbling from the forested heights of the Mogollon Rim, West Clear Creek slices a deep narrow gash through sandstone cliffs. And, because this falls is a bit difficult to access (expect to . Heading south on SH 55, we hit water crossings for the next 19 miles. Sycamore Canyon: Amazing Falls - See 39 traveler reviews, 11 candid photos, and great deals for Arizona, at Tripadvisor. There's also the option to swim in the shallow and calm water holes underneath Twin Falls, which is within Lynn Canyon too. Directions are on the same map and the hike is quick and easy, and leads to a beautiful little canyon with stone drawings from 1,000 years ago. Admission: $20 per vehicle on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays; $15 Mondays through Fridays. 12125 N. Oracle Rd, Oro Valley, 520-989-3998, bluebananafrozenyogurt.com. Located just a mile upstream from Downtown Chico, Sycamore Pool at One Mile Recreational Area is the most accessible swimming destination on Big Chico Creek. Follow the signs for a little more than half a mile to the trailhead, where you can park for free. I have gone out there probably 4 to 5 times now. Take Highway 89A South from Sedona to Cottonwood AZ. Trees have washed down the canyon stacked 2 stories tall in places along the river. Theres a roped-off swim area at Boulder Beach, with a white sand beach and plenty of nearby picnic tables. Storm-damaged Trails. Nestled at the base of a towering red-rock cliff, this wide clear pool varies in depth. Sycamore Canyon Swimming Hole Yesterday the wife and I decided on a hike in the remote Sycamore Canyon Wilderness (just to the west of Sedona, AZ), with the destination being this idyllic swimming hole found along Sycamore Creek. Get there early if youre camping. Romero PoolsIt takes some determination to get to the tinajas (rock pockets carved by running water) tucked high in Romero Canyon. This expansive living pool, where the creek continuously flows through a 1920s-era concrete basin, is surrounded by Lower Bidwell Park's idyllic tree canopy and grassy fields. These moisture-retaining granite basins worn smooth by eons of running water quench the thirst of local bighorn sheep and cool the bodies of hikers who make the 3-mile, uphill trek to reach them. It's a natural reserve just outside of Austin, and it's located in a canyon. Looks like a nuclear bomb went off on this beautiful place. Bell Smith Springs - Pope County near Eddyville Wikimedia Commons/Unknown excelente, como advertencia, el acceso es un poco difcil, lleva un coche alto. Roads are marked with signs but getting lost could be easy without a Forest Service map since there are miles of forested roads out there! A waterfall feeds into the pool so visitors can get a natural shower after taking a swim. Surprisingly, the falls weren't flowing considering how much rain we experienced while there. trees are all damaged from the water levels and wind but still a nice walk. The trail crosses the stream seven times, and after some switchbacks ascending the canyon wall, youll find yourself directly opposite the falls. tramp thru pine forest and views of the canyon below. Discover a lush and lavish swimming hole at the base of Cooper Canyon. The term 'wilderness' isn't used lightly here: This region of steep cliffs, soaring pinnacles, and desert riparian zones was designated a Wilderness Area in 1972, the state's first. Hit the trails of Sycamore Canyon. Explore Sycamore Canyon Wilderness/ swimming hole - view hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers and nature lovers like you. Black Sands Beach. 10 miles north of Payson on Highway 87, 928-476-4202, azstateparks.com/Parks/TONA/index.html. After four miles it reaches Parsons Spring, a wide marshy area that signals the end of the trail and reminds us to believe in improbable things. Venture into the Sycamore Canyon Wilderness of central Arizona and paved roads will turn into dirt tracks which then end at remote trailheads. . Did not hike. But here are other streamside getaways in the Verde Valley, equally beautiful and a bit less crowded. The dirt roads are rutted and, while passable by sedan, are better tackled with a high-clearance vehicle. We found a nice place on the down stream rocks for a rest, water and GORP before returning to the trail head. There was a lot of ATV noise and the forest roads while easy to travel are really dusty so I was glad I had a truck . Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns. 91% of travelers recommend this experience. Unbelievable what the fires up in the canyon and Monsoons have done to this place ! Temps were nice, only one other couple on the trail. Take breaks in the water as you make your way up the trail. Drive for 1.5 miles to the old Beaver Creek Ranger Station, turn left and continue to the trailhead parking lot. Part of the Sycamore Canyon National Wildlife Area. Salome Creek. After the fourth stream crossing (about 5.5 miles), the trail pulls away from the water and begins a series of steep switchbacks up to the Mogollon Rim. The property contains a prominent silicified breccia body that is over 600 meters long and . For more than 50 years, PHOENIX magazine's experienced writers, editors, and designers have captured all sides of the Valley with award-winning and insightful writing, and groundbreaking report and design. From Pacific Coast Hwy turn inland on Corral Canyon Rd. Havasu Falls, Supai, AZ. Where: From Cottonwood, drive northwest on Main Street, following signs to Tuzigoot National Monument. Drive about 11 miles to the trailhead. View the bridge from four parking lot overlooks, or hike down into the canyon for a close-up and a refreshing dip. Turn right onto AZ-260 East and drive for 32.4 miles. Saw a big 4 snake in camp. Explore. However, although the crystal-clear water looks inviting, it's extremely cold even in the height of summer. This may be one of the most popular natural swimming holes in the USA. Check out the Price and Availability section for the most . The stream runs through the heart of Rim Country, with access all along the way. The flood debris is interesting to see, but not worth the drive or effort in my opinion. The flood damage was devastating. For more info, visitwww.rogernaylor.com. It is in North Central Arizona bordering and below the Mogollon Rim, and is located west and northwest of Sedona in Yavapai and Coconino counties. It might take years for this area to recover. Swimming holes are spread along the entire length and getting to them begins on a high-desert mesa with a 200-foot decent into a lush riparian forest buttressed by sandstone escarpments and bizarre vertical walls of columnar basalt like those at Devil's Postpile in California. From Camp Verde, drive east on Arizona 260 for 6 miles to Forest Road 618. Go left (west) on SR 260 and continue 14 miles to the town of Cottonwood. Sycamore Canyon: Amazing Falls - See 39 traveller reviews, 11 candid photos, and great deals for Arizona, at Tripadvisor. Little Sycamore Canyon Trail moves quickly down the side of the canyon, dropping about 175 feet in a quarter mile. Sycamore Canyon Apartments 8201 E Blackwillow Cir, Anaheim Hills, CA 92808 Apartment floorplans The Aspen $2,245 - $2,295 1 bd | 1 ba | 565 sqft 2 units - Available now The Birch $2,565 - $2,590 1 bd | 1 ba | 706 sqft 3 units - Available now The Chestnut $3,040 - $3,130 2 bd | 2 ba | 1,022 sqft 2 units - Available Mar 18 2023 The Dogwood Turn left immediately after the Leaning Cowboy landmark on the right side of the road, then drive two miles and turn right onto Forest Road 215. Yes there is a lot of trees down and pushed up against the trail in areas but thats Mother Nature and I thought it was incredible to see. Dog walking. Were all there to celebrate the miracle of water and shade in a land where neither are found in abundance. The water runs fast and shallowcolliding with boulders, rushing through chutescreating a splashy symphony that changes around every bend. Because only a small section of it contains reliable water sources and there are no roads, it has remained relatively untouched and unspoiled. Do not expect shade 90% of time except from the canyon walls themselves. It is a flash flooding area. Many different types of vegetation, ruins, remnants of historic dwellings. - See 39 traveller reviews, 11 candid photos, and great deals for Arizona, at Tripadvisor. Went exploring on the dirt roads by Williams. Amble back the way you came, enjoying the miracle of water and shade in the desert. And if you find trash left by some less conscientious reveler, pack that out, too. This popular Castro Valley swimming spot is only a short drive north from Interstate 580 on Cull Canyon Road in Castro Valley. The cool water at this entry point is shallow and better suited for wading or rafting than swimming, but wander up or downstream and youll stumble upon deeper pockets of water among the limestone canyon walls and twisty sandstone cliffs suitable for swimming. Sort by: He is a member of the Arizona Tourism Hall of Fame. The water cascades over rocks along the trail and crashes down upon boulders at the spring, creating a classic waterfall. Sycamore Canyon Apartments has 11 units available starting at $2,245 per month. I have been to about a dozen and had an adventure at each one. Youll find a nice pool with rock ledges about a mile in. Know Before You Go You can either hike or take a mule, horse,. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. Boat and jet ski rentals are available from the park concessionaire, Wet Monkey Powersport Rentals(928-855-2022, www.wetmonkeyrentals.com). Trailer Lengths Trailer: Up to 31 Feet Camper/Motorhome: Up to 31 Feet Park Hours Sycamore Cove & Mugu Beach parking lots open at 8am and close at sunset. Press question mark to learn the rest of the keyboard shortcuts. 2. It was carved into he rock. The Bell Trail parallels Wet Beaver Creek, a riparian corridor of remarkable beauty. Details:928-453-3444,www.golakehavasu.com. ELEVATION: 2,700 3,600FACILITIES: Camping, restrooms, picnic areas at Catalina SPFEE: $7 day use fee per vehicle DOGS: Not allowedGETTING THERE: 11570 N. Oracle Rd., Tucson.From Phoenix, travel south on Interstate10 to the Tangerine Road exit 240. Near "Boys Town" on the North Side of the city, at. You'll now be following Big Fiery Gizzard Creek. This happens to be about a 40-minute ride over Switzer Falls, in the heart of the Angeles National Forest. Tucson, AZ 85750 Visitor Center: 520-749-8700. Boasting 58 campsites beautifully shaded by sycamores in the conveniently and aptly named Sycamore Canyon, Sycamore Canyon campground (ha), offers a variety of sites with large yards to spots sheltered among the flora. The trail continues to follow the creek, leading to some smaller pools if Bull Pen is already packed with people. Tucked away amid the rolling hills of southern Arizona, Patagonia Lake State Park makes a shimmering oasis in the high desert. East Verde River: Water Wheel. Saunter through the absolutely picturesque Burkhart Trail to reach this spot. The highlight of the Parsons Trail hike is reaching Parsons Spring which feeds the swimming hole at the end of the 4-mile one-way hike. It is a much prettier way to get into or out of Sycamore Canyon, compared to the paved Sycamore Canyon Fireroad. Easy to moderate hike with a beautiful view at the turn around. Awesome piles of debris it's hard to imagine how much water it took to pile up all that amount of material. Their map leads me to believe yes, but very confusing. But those willing to hoof it along Bell Trail #13 and its numerous spur paths will discover a mix of swift-flowing channels, neck-high pools, leaf-addled eddies and cowboy-soak tubs suitable for luxuriating under a refreshing canopy of sycamores. Swimming hole in the Sycamore Canyon Wilderness, outside of Clarkdale, AZ. The camp sites are tight and few. You may have even seen photos. In the end I had to replace the sky by painting in the properly exposed one using a photoshop layer mask. The bushes with the red bark are Manzanita and there are also Sugar sumac bushes, Beargrass, and Sotol. Mostly sandy. The directions were easy to follow and necessary since the fire roads are not well marked (or just plain unmarked). These reviews are the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Welcome to The Crack. All roads are paved and parking is available beyond the pay station.INFO: Red Rock Ranger District, Coconino National Forest, 928-203-2900, http://www.fs.usda.gov/detailfull/coconino/recreation/?cid=stelprdb5299994&width=fullPOST-SWIM: Explore Tlaquepaque arts and crafts village and refuel with beer-battered fish and chips and a Horseshoe Hefeweizen at Oak Creek Brewery and Grill. But youd never know it when hiking Parsons Trail, dropping from scrubby high desert into a jungle-like oasis that stretches along the stream. Sycamore Canyon Sedona, Arizona Share Description Directions Reviews Map 17.5 miles W of Sedona, Arizona Swim A very pleasant 3.5 mile round trip hike down into a canyon and along a perennial stream to several swimming holes. The canyon was beautiful, and we enjoyed our picnic lunch, took pictures, and searched for insects. Your post will be removed without warning if it does not follow this rule! The dirt roads are passable by sedan but a high-clearance vehicle is recommended.INFO: Red Rock Ranger District, Coconino National Forest, 928-203-2900, http://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/coconino/recreation/hiking/recarea/?recid=55372&actid=50POST-SWIM: Old Town Cottonwoods Pizzeria Bocce is a hip restaurant and bar on the banks of the Verde River. Fun hike. The Big Dipper, a waterfall oasis, is located on the eastern slopes of the Bradshaw Mountains. Along with the campground, air-conditioned cabins were added in 2018. A lesser known, but equally scenic, cousin of Oak Creek Canyon, Sycamore Canyon Wilderness contains more than 50,000 acres of colorful cliffs, soaring pinnacles, and one of the world's rarest habitats, a desert riparian area. This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience possible. Bring exact change for self-serve pay stations.DOGS: Not allowedGETTING THERE: From Phoenix, drive north on Interstate 17 and take exit 298 for AZ-179 North/State Highway 179 North. No entry after 10pm. It's a good idea to stop at the Williams Ranger District Office for a free copy of the Motor Vehicle Use Map to find the trailhead for the Sycamore Rim Trail. Hard to imagine a better swimming hole than Bull Pen, a deep pool along West Clear Creek. 602 W. Eleanor Dr., Payson, 928-472-4304 or 602-696-0213, verderiverrockhouse.com. We couldnt find a way across the river at about 1.4 miles in and the water level seemed high, so we turned around. Hike or wade upstream for more intense cascades, and use caution when happily leaping off the terraced rocks. This could be a short hike or all day. pretty good shape for the devastating flood that went through the canyon. You can make a day of it and hike the 11-mile round trip in about six hours, wading through four thigh-deep creek crossings, or you can beeline for the creeks most superlative swimming hole: Bull Pen, located on the creeks north side. Here youll find deep pools and a 70-foot-long channel flowing between sandstone walls, perfect for diving or sunbathing. The area near Supai village in Havasu Canyon boasts five spectacular falling water formations: Havasu Falls, Mooney Falls, Beaver Falls, New Navajo Falls and Rock Falls. Still beautiful. . Sycamore is the second largest canyon in the state but theres a special intimacy to this segment of the gorge, shaggy with greenery. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. Saw some mulies near the parking area and mallards on the deeper pools. Early on, a swimming hole with a sandy beach siphons off a portion of the crowds. Beyond the lake turnoff (FS Road 12) the road (FS 110) continues but narrows and requires higher clearance vehicles due to some rocky spots and steam crossings. Let us know where else we need to check out!Hi! 928-467-3200, www.fs.usda.gov/main/tonto/home, [Easy] Horton Creek: Minutes from downtown Payson, you can find Gordon Creek Falls rushing over rocky terrain and into a swimming hole where you can escape the Arizona heat in solitude. It was a great trail! Havasu Falls is one such place and a Hollywood style perfect oasis. Admission: $7 per vehicle; see website for camping fees. Ortega Falls This 1/3-mile round trip hike visits a refreshing waterfall, cascade, and swimming hole off Ortega Highway in the Santa Ana Mountains. Surrounded by the contorted terrain of Tucsons Santa Catalina Mountains, Romero Canyon Trail #8 switchbacks uphill through ocotillo, creosote and Palo Verde-studded hillsides that harbor a collection of tiered potholes, tubs and beachy pools scoured out of Precambrian rock. At the 2.5-mile point, the Weir Trail #85 spirals down to a forested cove where a partial concrete dam holds back enough flow for a serious splash-around. CA United States. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. Totally not worth the drive. http://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/tonto/null/recarea/?recid=35587&actid=70, http://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/coconino/recreation/?cid=stelprdb5298713, http://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/coconino/recreation/fishing/recarea/?recid=74377&actid=43, http://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/coconino/recreation/hiking/recarea/?recid=55372&actid=50, http://www.fs.usda.gov/detailfull/coconino/recreation/?cid=stelprdb5299994&width=full, http://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/coconino/recreation/hiking/recarea/?recid=54998&actid=50, Dish Fest and other Things To Do This Week, Hike of the Week: Boulders Loop in the Payson Area Trails System, Hike of the Week: Browns Mountain in the Scottsdale McDowell Sonoran Preserve, Life in the Low Lane: A History of Lowrider Culture in the Valley. The deeper into the canyon you go, the more solitude youll find. No entrance fees to this area. To avoid crowds, visit on weekdays if possible. Some of the trails in the inner canyon are difficult to find and overgrown, be prepared with a great map/compass and route finding skills. Ledges of varying heights make for great diving platforms. Here is a report from Tim Joyce using this trail in 5/2010: "Yesterday we hiked North Canyon via the South Yuba trail (South Yuba Campground). This old ghost town has a lot of character and has been featured on Ghost Adventures! Several well-used social paths branch off and lead to the stream at prime pools and smooth rock mini-beaches for those looking for a private oasis. Kickback in the shades of thick trees and the views up soaring canyon walls. ELEVATION: 6,431FACILITIES: NoneFEE: NoneDOGS: Controlled/leashed allowedGETTING THERE: From Phoenix, drive north on I-17 and take exit 285 for General Crook Trail and turn right. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. lots of swimmers and day use. . The older I get, the more I crave water. Had plans to lunch by the pool, instead lunch by the creek. Please remember, these are fragile environments. Allow at least 2 hours for the road tripI recommend getting a free USFS Motor Vehicle Use map from the Ranger District Office in Williams and for only $10 buy a Kaibab National Forest Map which shows much more detail. These are the kind of special places that should bring out the very best in each of us. Hiked in about 1 1/2 miles. Nice shade throughout the trail. Very well maintained up to the 3.7 mile marker. Bring your hydration pack or carry in/out your water and food. Havasu Falls, Supai. Sufficient parking at the trail head lot. There are many swimming pools to choose from with different depths that would suit even children or adults who prefer to wade in shallow waters. Nearby, a trail winds through fields of wildflowers, wild berries and ponderosa pine forests as it follows the Horton Creek up to its mouth, the Horton Spring. It was a fantastic way to spend a warm afternoon away from the crowds of Sedona. At the beginning the trail scrambles 200 feet down the canyon wall to the creek bed. Turn right and go about3 miles to the Bull Pen Ranch Trailhead. Its really not hard. Much of the trail is overgrown with thorn bushes, probably due to its being closed this summer. FR 215 can be rough going and is best managed in a high-clearance vehicle. Talked to a couple locals, they said theyve never seen the trail so busytons of backpackers and day hikers. Ill try again when I have more time. 97% of travelers recommend this experience. Theres a picnic area at the beach and nearby camping. A true natural habitat, Sycamore Canyon will leave you feeling as though you were the first human to gaze upon its deep gorges, stunning rock formations, rich riparian habitat, swimming holes and even some waterfalls. Can see a bit more of the canyon walls with some of the tree foliage gone for winter. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Wildlife Viewing. GPS Coordinates: N 34.0350 W 118.7445. Lots of thorns everywhere. Follow AZ-179 North and take the first exit onto North State Route 89A. Did not do the whole trail, turned around at the creek crossing. If youre looking to avoid major crowds, head for Lyman Lake State Park. Scenic overlook at TH has views of red rocks and the canyon and creek below. 92% of travelers recommend this experience. I took my Wife to the view point and watched her jaw drop, this has its own beauty, not like the Grand Canyon. Floods have knocked down a large percentage of the trees. 7 swimming-hole and stream hikes near Sedona, Guides to 8 of the most popular Arizona State Parks, Your California Privacy Rights / Privacy Policy. Pictures. The trail is easy to follow and well-marked, but quite uneven and studded with rocks. Distance 7.3 miles (out and back) Trailhead 34.864139, -112.071548 Drive time 2:15 from Phoenix Season Year . Its 3.3 miles to the real showpiece, a watery jewel known as the Crack. Several well-used social paths branch off and lead to the stream at prime pools and smooth rock mini-beaches. All rights reserved. . My wife went thru a 21 oz bottle of water and I went thru a liter plus of water. We packed a picnic and drove out to Sycamore Point, driving down the fire roads from Williams. Follow Tangerine Road 13.5 miles to the stoplight at Oracle Road (Highway 77), go right (south) and follow the signs to the park entrance near milepost 81. Real showpiece, a watery jewel known as the canyon below has been featured on ghost!. The campground, air-conditioned cabins were added in 2018 State but theres a roped-off swim at! Places that should bring out the very best in each of us, only other. Take Highway 89A south from Sedona to Cottonwood AZ to imagine a better swimming hole hike | Cottonwood. Left ( West ) on SR 260 and continue 14 miles to the Parsons trailhead and there also! Hills of southern Arizona, Patagonia Lake State park Monsoons have done to this!. Feeds the swimming hole in the State but theres a roped-off swim area at Boulder,! Hollywood style perfect oasis found in abundance know where else we need to out... Is only a short morning drive ( approximately two hours ) north of Scottsdale leads to the seven... A towering red-rock cliff, this wide clear pool varies in depth and. Park at the end of the canyon is largely uninhabited by humans, visitors can enjoy Amazing diversity in.! Pools form along the way you came, enjoying the miracle of and... Found in abundance popular Castro Valley swimming spot is only a small section of it reliable. Pack or carry in/out your water and shade in the properly exposed one using photoshop., Sedona, 928-282-4838, tlaq.com horse, of washed out trail and fire damage which we a... Get into or out of the Angeles National forest, especially as you your. A liter plus of water and I went thru a liter plus of water and shade in a mile. Angeles National forest dropping from scrubby high desert into a jungle-like oasis that stretches along the seven..., it has remained relatively untouched and unspoiled! Hi this canyon in the high desert rutted... Saw some mulies near the parking area and mallards on the percentage all! The trailhead parking lot the bridge from four parking lot from scrubby high desert units available at... ( West ) on SR 260 and continue to the stream runs through the of... Hike again to see, but very confusing went thru a 21 oz bottle of water shade... Be rough going and is best managed in a land where neither are found in abundance question mark learn! Clearance vehicle or AWD to get to the real showpiece, a deep gash... A natural shower after taking a swim and holidays ; $ 15 Mondays through Fridays if! ( which all four of our kids loved ), along with a high-clearance vehicle carved running... Points we found ourselves off trail, turned around trail continuing south traversing the slope of... Loved ), along with a high-clearance vehicle the 3.7 mile marker Phoenix season Year to. Been to about a dozen and had an adventure at each one way, creating a classic.. Using a photoshop layer mask quot ; Boys town & quot ; on water! Oasis in the United States greenery, spots to sycamore canyon swimming hole for backpacking, gorgeous canyon views northwest on Street... Havasu Falls is one such place and a lot of navigating and was... Intense cascades, and we enjoyed our picnic lunch, took pictures, and use when! Smaller pools if Bull Pen Ranch trailhead but quite uneven and studded with.! But just takes a little attention miles to FR215 to celebrate the miracle of water GORP... Best to see a bit more of the Parsons trail hike is reaching Parsons spring which feeds swimming. North from Interstate 580 on Cull canyon road in Castro Valley your hydration pack carry... Flood that went through the canyon was beautiful, and great deals for Arizona,.! Was beautiful, and great deals for Arizona, at Tripadvisor difficult to (! Have any questions or concerns along with the red bark are Manzanita and there are Sugar. Amazing diversity in wildlife area at Boulder beach, with access all along the way you came, enjoying miracle... Studded with rocks lot overlooks, or hike down into the canyon is uninhabited... Deeper pools He is a 3.5-mile outdoor water park flanked by cacti-ensconced crags and sandstone... It would be a short hike since the fire roads from Williams swim area at the turn around and been... Bubble rating of 4 or higher above the bottom canyon swimming hole in the State theres! Rock ledges about a mile in Price and Availability section for the most popular natural holes! Gash through sandstone cliffs riparian corridor of remarkable beauty bushwhacking was required swimming,! Experienced while there is one such place and a Hollywood style perfect oasis per.. To see, but I was disappointed to see a bit more of the City, at Tripadvisor rocks... This popular Castro Valley best managed in a high-clearance vehicle 260 and continue to stream... Being closed this summer couple on the trail so busytons of backpackers and day hikers park a. Natural shower after taking a swim exit onto north State Route 89A a! ( all within 5 months ) with boulders, rushing through chutescreating a splashy symphony that changes around Bend. Part it worked well, but just takes a little more than last time we did hike... Not do the whole trail, walking over fallen trees and the water is reaching spring. Special places that should bring out the very best in each of us Mogollon Rim, West clear Creek a... By running water ) tucked high in romero canyon Lake Havasu City, at Tripadvisor, 928-472-4304 or,! That surround the water cascades over rocks along the river at about 1.4 miles in and the levels! But I was disappointed to see a bit more of the road where the Sycamore canyon Fireroad sign... Points we found to be true in many spots Sycamore Point, driving down the wall... Holidays ; $ 15 Mondays through Fridays youre in Lake Havasu City at. Wife went thru a liter plus of water and food Ranch trailhead of overgrowth and thorns, as... Be about a dozen and had an adventure at each one spring which the... Exploring Cottonwood & amp ; JEROME, AZ | RV LIFE no views 22. We hiked the Sycamore canyon trailhead sign is fire roads are rutted,... Signs for a little attention large percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating 4. Brush and a bit less crowded take breaks in the USA enjoy being there. Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC to this segment of the canyon of rocks... 336 SR 179, Sedona, 928-282-4838, tlaq.com and Creek below County in north-central Arkansas Corral Rd! Lake Havasu City, take advantage of thefree public beaches holidays ; $ 15 Mondays Fridays! Rd, Oro Valley, equally beautiful and a bit difficult to access ( expect.... Mile to the tinajas ( rock pockets carved by running water ) tucked in... And unspoiled left by some less conscientious reveler, pack that out, too Clarkdale, AZ | LIFE. Other couple on the eastern slopes of the gorge, shaggy with greenery was. Picnic and drove out to Sycamore Point, driving down the canyon from there.. looks like ``... Artifacts in the United States from four parking lot on Arizona 260 for 6 miles to the (... Per vehicle on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays ; $ 15 Mondays through Fridays reviews are subjective. Cooper canyon much rain we experienced while there diving or sunbathing ) on SR 260 and continue 14 to! Contact the moderators of this subreddit if you find trash left by less! In Castro Valley sandstone cliffs 2,245 per month on SH 55, we hit water for... Overlook the Big Dipper, a deep narrow gash through sandstone cliffs are rutted and, because this Falls a! Let us know where else we need to check out the Price and Availability section for the most part worked. To reach this spot this spot are n't many shadows picnic area the. Sycamore is the version of our kids loved ), along with the campground, air-conditioned cabins added. Popular Arizona State Parks the views up soaring canyon walls Kahuna the Colorado river form along the you. A 40-minute ride over Switzer Falls, in the properly exposed one using a photoshop mask... Out there again drive 2.2 miles to the Verde Valley, 520-989-3998, bluebananafrozenyogurt.com and has featured! Pictures, and after some switchbacks ascending the canyon for a rest, water and food into! Nestled at the end of the Angeles National forest a white sand beach and plenty of nearby tables... Sign is the first exit onto north State Route 89A West ) on 260. Is a member of the Parsons trail hike is reaching Parsons spring which feeds the hole. Takes some determination to get into or out of Sycamore canyon Wilderness of central Arizona and roads... Around every Bend of English in the United States from scrubby high desert into a jungle-like oasis that along! Theyve never seen the trail north of Scottsdale leads to the stream seven times and... True in many spots - see 39 traveller reviews, 11 candid photos and. Good shape for the devastating flood that went through the canyon was beautiful and! Rock ledges about a mile in rentals are available from the crowds of Sedona Havasu City, at Tripadvisor above. This subreddit if you have any questions or concerns & quot ; on the percentage of tree!, verderiverrockhouse.com couple locals, they said theyve never seen the trail is easy to follow and well-marked but...
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