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Temporary closure of Fossil Creek Road begins Monday, April 25, 2016
Release Date: Apr 24, 2016
Contact(s): Media Contact: George Jozens 928-527-3412, Media Contact: Brady Smith 928-527-3490
Camp Verde, Arizona — Forest engineers announced today a temporary closure of the road into Fossil Creek on the Coconino National Forest will begin Monday, April 25, 2016.
This closure is from the intersection of Forest Roads 502 and FR 708 upstream to the gate east of the Waterfall Trailhead parking area and is necessary to allow large machinery to operate and newly poured concrete at the new entryway at the FR 502 and FR 708 intersection the adequate time to cure and dry. The Fossil Creek road, Forest Road 708, will be closed to all vehicles east of the FR 502 and FR 708 intersection from 8:00 a.m. Monday, April 25, until 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, April 27. The creek may be accessed by Forest Road 502 south of the intersection with Forest Road 708.
A drastic increase in use and over-crowded conditions at this popular undeveloped recreation area has created serious traffic problems and safety issues for visitors to the area. In order to alleviate these issues and give everyone a more fun and pleasant experience, the Red Rock Ranger District is implementing a reservation system for parking at the day use picnic sites and trailheads in the Fossil Creek and Fossil Springs area. Starting May 1, 2016, a reserved parking permit will be required to park in the Fossil Creek area during the high-use season (May 1 through October 1 in 2016). Permits may be purchased online at Recreation.gov .
This reservation guarantees a parking space at one of the nine designated parking lots along the creek between the hours of 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. There is a $6 administration fee for each permit. Glass containers, camping, and fires are prohibited within the permit area.
Visitor’s can make a reservation (required starting May 1) online at Recreation.gov, or by calling toll free 1-877-444-6777. For further questions related to the gate or closure, call the Forest's public affairs contact George Jozens at 928-527-3412.