Fossil Creek
★ Wild & Scenic
Gila Co. · 14 mi · Class I–II
61.7CFS/ 3.84 ft
Optimal
→Stable
Optimal: 40–200 CFS · USGS #09507480
⚡Flow data is live from USGS·Rapid classifications and CFS ranges need community verification·Know this river?
14 mi
Length
Class I–II
Difficulty
40–200 cfs
Optimal
46 cfs
Avg Flow
43 cfs
Hist. Median
#09507480
USGS Gauge
National Wild & Scenic River · Permit Required (April–October)

Fossil Creek is a Wild and Scenic travertine creek flowing through a stunning canyon in central Arizona. The spring-fed creek maintains a constant 72 degrees year-round and deposits brilliant blue-green travertine formations. A permit is required for access from April through October.

Trip sections
Upper Fossil Creek — Class I, travertine pools and falls
Lower Fossil Creek to Verde River — Class I–II, canyon narrows
Outfitters
Fossil Creek Adventures
Guided Fossil Creek canyon experiences
72-Hour Flow Forecast
NOAA NWPS
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10-Year Flow Patterns
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Your Optimal Range
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Data Quality

River conditions are community-verified. CFS ranges, difficulty ratings, and trip sections may not reflect every flow level or seasonal change. Always check current conditions, scout unfamiliar rapids, and paddle within your skill level. If you spot an error, use the Improve This River button at the top of the page — your local knowledge is what makes this atlas accurate.