Wet Beaver Creek Wilderness

Near Rimrock, Arizona

Creek
Emerald pool in the red rock canyon of Wet Beaver Creek

Photo: Smiles1479, Public domain via Wikimedia Commons

Map showing location of Wet Beaver Creek Wilderness
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34.6667°N, 111.6833°W
© OpenStreetMap

About Wet Beaver Creek Wilderness

The Wet Beaver Creek Wilderness Area protects a perennial stream that flows through a stunning red rock canyon. The Bell Trail follows the creek upstream, passing numerous swimming holes carved into the sandstone. The most famous destination is "The Crack," a narrow slot canyon with emerald pools, approximately 3.5 miles from the trailhead. The journey offers increasingly beautiful pools the further you hike.

Access & Directions

The Bell Trailhead is located off Forest Road 618, accessible from I-17 Exit 298. A Red Rock Pass or Interagency Pass is required for parking. The trail is well-maintained but can be muddy after rain. Creek crossings are required—be prepared to get wet.

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Safety Information

This is a designated wilderness area—pack out all trash and practice Leave No Trace principles. Flash floods can occur during monsoon season. Some pools are quite deep with limited visibility. The Crack requires swimming through a narrow passage.

Best Time to Visit

Spring and fall offer the best conditions. Summer can be hot on the exposed trail sections. Water levels are highest in spring.

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