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Common Ground News

Is Stoneman Lake Road open?

Author

Chloe Ramirez

Updated on March 12, 2026

Is Stoneman Lake Road open?

Stoneman Lake road (Forest Road 213) is also currently open. All other main forest roads in that district are closed. As well, be aware that even though a forest road might start on an open road in the desert, if it begins to climb in elevation the driver could encounter deep snow and 4-wheel driving conditions.

Keeping this in consideration, is Stoneman Lake open?

Area Status: Open

There is still some debate over whether Stoneman Lake is the remains of a volcanic crater or whether it fills a deep, collapsed sinkhole.

Likewise, can you swim in Stoneman Lake? Central Arizona's Stoneman Lake is a cool retreat for those weary of summer's heat. Check before you go - There is seldom any water in Stoneman Lake.

Similarly one may ask, is Stoneman Lake Road paved?

NOTE: Stoneman Lake Road, while well traveled, is only paved for 7 of 16 miles at the I-17 end of the road; the rest of the road is graded cinder road and might not be suitable for some cars or may be closed in severe weather conditions.

Is Fossil Creek Road closed?

Note: As of October 2020, the road leading to this trailhead from Strawberry, AZ is closed indefinitely. To access this trail you must drive from Camp Verde. For more information please see the park website: The dry desert is contrasted by the clear blue waters of Fossil Creek.

Is the Mogollon Rim closed?

All forest roads on the Mogollon Rim Ranger District that are north of milepost 308 on State Route 87 are open, as well as those that are west of milepost 244 on SR 260. Stoneman Lake road (Forest Road 213) is also currently open. All other main forest roads in that district are closed.

Is Stoneman Lake dry?

Stoneman Lake is small and shallow, with an average surface area of less than 100 acres (40 ha) and depth of less than 10 ft (3.0 m). As such, it is subject to considerable fluctuations due to local rainfall and snowmelt conditions, and may even dry up completely.

What forest is the Mogollon Rim?

Coconino National Forest

Is there water in Mormon Lake?

According to the Coconino National Forest's website, Mormon Lake, about 30 miles south of Flagstaff, is the largest natural lake in the state of Arizona, when it's full. Gold has heard a number of stories about why the lake doesn't hold water.

How do I get to the Mogollon Rim?

Driving Forest Road 300

From Payson, go east on State Route 260 for about 29 miles to the top of the Mogollon Rim. The Mogollon Visitor Center is on the right. Opposite it, turn left onto Forest Road 300. Or, if you'd like to visit Willow Springs Lake first, continue for another mile on 260.

Is Mogollon Rim open for camping?

The Red Rock Ranger District and Oak Creek Canyon visitor centers remain closed. Some developed campgrounds in the Mogollon Rim Ranger District are open and dispersed camping is allowed.

How far is Mormon Lake from Flagstaff?

29 miles

Can you go to Fossil Creek without a permit?

Visitors must buy a permit in advance and present a hard copy of it at the parking lot entrance. Those without printed permits will not be allowed to enter. Permits cost $6 on the Fossil Creek Wild and Scenic River page at gov and allow entrance to a specific lot. The permits are good for day use only.

Do I need a permit to go to Fossil Creek?

Permit & Season Information

Advance permits are required to park a vehicle in the Fossil Creek permit area April 1–October 1. During this season, a maximum of one permit per person per calendar month may be reserved (one permit = one day). Permits are made available on the first of the month one month ahead of time.

Can you drive a car to Fossil Creek?

Note that in order to access Fossil Creek, you'll need to drive a rough, windy road about 22 miles through the mountains. It'll take you about an hour. The Waterfall Trailhead parking lot was booked by the time we made the reservation, so we settled for the Irving parking lot down the road.

How long of a hike is Fossil Creek?

Waterfall Trail is the most popular area at Fossil Creek. The one-mile trail follows the creek to a natural waterfall, where crowds spend the day swimming. This rewarding hike showcases the beauty Fossil Creek has to offer.

Is Fossil Creek open to the public?

Permits Required April 1 to October 1

Spring-Summer Season (April 1 - October 1): A reserved, printed permit is required. During the Spring-Summer Season, the Fossil Creek and Springs area is day use only. Camping, campfires, and glass containers are prohibited.

Where is Fossil Creek located?

Arizona

How high is Fossil Creek waterfall?

Enjoy a beautiful waterfall with a 25 foot cliff to jump off. There are multiple swimming areas, breathtaking scenery, and nearby camping spots along the adventure.

Can you bring dogs to Fossil Creek?

Dog-Friendly: Yes (must have a leash!) Accessibility: 30 parking spaces at each trailhead! (There are 9 trailheads!) Fee/Permit: Permit required during peak season (March 1 to October 1).

How do I get to the swimming hole in Fossil Creek?

From Phoenix, head north on the I-17 to Camp Verde and exit on the SR260 and head east 10 miles to Fossil Creek Road. Turn right and continue along Fossil Creek road until you reach the creek approximately 14 miles down the road.

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Is Stoneman Lake Road open?