Fossil Creek, Arizona

The most clear, blue, turquoise water that I have seen in Arizona. A little piece of the Caribbean in the desert.  Just 2.5 hours north of Phoenix, this oasis is the perfect day trip during a hot summer day. Get there early to beat the crowds (trust me, it’ll get packed after 10am). Parking permits are required April through October and are available at www.recreation.gov. Parking lots open at 8am and it’s just a quick 30 minute walk along the river to the waterfall. Try and get a permit for Lot 05 Waterfall Trailhead Parking – it’s the closest to the trailhead.