This different way to get to Fossil Creek is rewarding, but only accessible via a steep 4.5-mile hike down from the top of the mountains to the bottom of the canyons. There are multiple warning signs at the beginning of the trailhead from the Sheriff’s Department stating that hundreds of people are rescued from this trail each year and if you can’t hike 10 miles, at a 100-degree temperature outside, at 6500 feet elevation, do not attempt this trail. This trail is not for kids or pets. However, if you have the ability to complete this trail, it is advisable to bring at least one gallon of water for each person.
What is truly amazing about when you reach the water at the bottom is that you can see why this trail was originally named Fossil Springs Trail. When you reach the first sign of water, it is evidently noticeable that there is a gushing spring providing clean water pumping straight from the Earth below. As you venture down the creek following the water, you can see multiple natural springs jutting out from rock walls covered in blackberry vines. There were natural springs everywhere. If you follow the marked trail to follow the sign to “The Dam” roughly about 10-15 minutes, you are greeted by the marvelous sight of a huge waterfall. Crystal clear water poring straight over a steep ledge that falls in two places. One is a huge, roaring, swirling hole of crashing water with steep, flat rock walls surrounding on each direction that is seemingly completely closed off to the calm, delicate pool of water and continuance of the creek right next to it.
Under the water, you are bewildered with the sight of thousands of bubbles rushing out from a small arched opening at the bottom of this ginormous rock wall that is the only gateway connecting the two sides of the falling water. There is a mermaid like cave near the waterfall where the walls look fossilized and the turquoise hue of the water truly shines. Just around the corner from this massive waterfall, the creek follows a path that lead directly into a cave so big, from the outside it looks pitch black looking in. Swimming in, the blackness disappears and you are left with detailed views of cave walls surrounding you in sapphire colored water. Activities include: hiking, snorkeling, cave exploring, waterfall watching