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Temporary closure order continues Monday, Tuesday (May 15-16, 2017) for Fossil Creek, Childs
Release Date: May 12, 2017
Contact(s): Red Rock Visitor Center 928-203-2900, Media Contact: Brady Smith, George Jozens (928)224-8306
Sedona, Arizona — A closure order for portions of the Fossil Creek Wild and Scenic River Corridor, nearby forest roads, and the Childs dispersed camping and recreation area on the Verde River is extended to May 16 to allow the contractor to finish the installation of vault toilets at several locations along Fossil Creek.
During this time, the Waterfall, Irving, Tonto Bench, Fossil Creek Bridge, Homestead, Sally May, Purple Mountain, and Mazatzal parking lots within the Fossil Creek corridor will be closed, as will the Childs recreation area on the Verde River. Forest Road 708 from State Route 260 to Fossil Creek (on the Camp Verde side), and Forest Road 502 to Childs will also be closed. Boaters on the Verde River are advised to avoid itineraries that would require being picked up at Childs.
This temporary closure order is needed to protect public health and safety while construction takes place, and to ensure vehicle traffic on roads in the area does not interfere with construction traffic.
The Fossil Springs Trailhead parking area and Fossil Springs Trail will remain open during the closure period. Visitors are warned that there is no direct access to Fossil Creek from the Fossil Springs Trailhead. The Fossil Springs trail is a very difficult, eight-mile round-trip hike. Hundreds of people are rescued on this trail each year, which puts a substantial burden on local emergency responders. Do not attempt this hike without being prepared—especially as temperatures rise.
Vault toilets are needed in Fossil Creek to provide better sanitation for visitors’ use of the corridor. The Coconino and Tonto national forests will replace temporary porta-potties with eight vault-style toilets at locations along Fossil Creek to protect human health and safety and sensitive natural and cultural resources.
Visit Fossil Creek Wild & Scenic River for more information about the area. The Fossil Creek Hotline is also available with up-to-date information about closures at (928) 226-4611.