East Clear Creek is what gets crossed in this case. It's a perennial stream that flows through a picturesque canyon and eventually ends up in the Little Colorado River. The trail that leads to the crossing drops down a gradual slope through an open forest of ponderosa pine and Gambel oak.
East Clear Creek is small, but great for wading and splashing around. A few of the deeper pools are big enough for swimming and fishing. All of them make great reflecting pools for the rock bluffs that form the canyon walls, so bring your camera.
Just above the creek you'll find the remains of an old cabin set on a rocky bench. It's hard not to imagine how enjoyable it must have been to live in such a beautiful place, with peace and quiet as big as the landscape. If that's the way you feel, you might want to give it a try, at least for a while. There are a number of backpacking campsites in the trees near the crossing.
When hiking several trails on a single "hike", log it with a generic name that describes the hike. Then link the trails traveled, check out the example.
WARNING! Hiking and outdoor related sports can be dangerous. Be responsible and prepare for the trip. Study the area you are entering and plan accordingly. Dress for the current and unexpected weather changes. Take plenty of water. Never go alone. Make an itinerary with your plan(s), route(s), destination(s) and expected return time. Give your itinerary to trusted family and/or friends.
Permit $$
None
Directions
Road
FR / Dirt Road / Gravel - Car Okay
To hike Location: 70 miles (about 2 hours) south of Flagstaff in the cool pinesof Mogollon Rim country.
Access: Drive about 55 Miles south of Flagstaff on Forest Highway 3. Drive north 9 miles on AZ 87 to FR 95. Turn south (right) 4 miles to FR 513B. Turn left on 513B about 2 miles to the trailhead.FH 3 and AZ 87 are paved. All other roads are graveled and suitable for passenger vehicles except FR 513B which can be muddy. FR 95 is closed every winter.
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