Verde Hot Springs

Verde Hot Springs is one of those local not-so-secret secrets. Once upon a time, the springs were part of a hotel carved into a mountain overlooking the Verde River. In the ‘60s, the hotel burned to the ground, leaving behind plenty of lore and two pools that sit in the old foundation. The larger of the two is completely outdoors and looks out to the Verde River and valley. The smaller and warmer pool is inside a small roofless building that’s covered in psychedelic paintings. Part of the adventure of Verde Hot Springs is getting there. The unmaintained Fossil Creek Road is an unpaved, suspension-destroying shake fest that twists through naked desert mountains. Once you turn off Route 260 onto Fossil Creek Road, it takes over an hour to drive to the springs campground, so take your time. Pull over and search for the waterfalls, swimming holes, and hiking trails that sit just off the road.
From the campground, you’ll have another mile of hiking before making a river crossing to the springs. If this is your first time, be sure to go during the day. Follow the river toward the old power plant and keep your eyes open for a pile of rocks left behind by fellow adventurers, or use your intuition to find a calm spot of the river to cross. Please bear in mind you’re a long way from help if you find yourself with a sprained ankle.