West Clear Creek

The deep, rocky canyon cut by West Clear Creek, as it slices its way free of the Mogollon rim, is home to one of the most unique Wilderness Areas in the Southwest. This gorge is so narrow that in places the stream fills it from wall to wall. To descend one has to swim or wade, not once but as many as 15 or 20 times. Lower reaches of the canyon are more accessible and provide excellent places for secluded recreation such as swimming, hiking, trout fishing, and wildlife watching. In addition to the many colorful birds in this area, it is home to some interesting larger creatures such as black bear, javelina, and mountain lion.

Location: 60 miles south of Flagstaff just off a paved State Highway 260. Elevation is 3,200 ft.

Access: Drive 50 miles south of Flagstaff on I-17, take any Camp Verde exit and head east through Camp Verde. Drive 6 miles on State Highway 260. Just past FR 618 is the Clear Creek Campground. T urn north to the campground.

Campground Season: All year for both the primitive campground near Bull Pen and at Clear Creek Campground near Forest Highway 9.

Attractions: Fishing, Camping, Waterplay, Sightseeing, Wildlife viewing, Photography

Facilities: Primitive campground with vault toilets at Bullpen, Hiking trails, Drinking water, cooking grills, vault toilets, and Hiking group area at West Clear Creek Campground

Notes:
Hiking through the canyon's inner gorge is difficult and can be dangerous. It is not recommended for inexperienced hikers.
No mechanical vehicles in Wilderness.

For more information contact:
Red Rock Ranger District, P.O. Box 20249, Sedona AZ 86341, (928) 282-4119
or
Mogollon Rim Ranger District, HC 31, Box 300, Happy Jack AZ 86024, (928) 477-2255 FAX 527-8282