Clear Creek Canyon (2BIII)

Location: ~7 miles south of Winslow, Arizona
Rating: Basic Canyoneering 2B II or 2B III depending on distance and commitment
Length: 2 to 14 hours depending on turnaround point
Mileage: Highly variable depending on route choice
Longest Rappel: None
Start: Clear Creek Reservoir area
End: Out and back
Permits: None
Wet Suit: Not needed
Shuttle: Not required

*Note: There are multiple canyons named Clear Creek in Arizona. This description refers to the canyon located south of Winslow near Clear Creek Reservoir along the Mogollon Rim.

Overview: Clear Creek Canyon offers a flexible and scenic canyon experience with moderate walls, flowing water, and numerous pools. This route is best considered a non technical canyon hike with canyoneering characteristics rather than a defined technical route.

The creek originates far upstream and flows through a long stretch of canyon terrain, creating sections of open canyon, light narrows, and swim worthy pools. Because of its length, this canyon is best suited for exploration rather than a fixed route. Distance and difficulty depend entirely on how far you choose to travel.

Water is typically present year round. Expect frequent wading and possibly swimming depending on conditions. Terrain may include uneven footing, vegetation, and creek crossings.

Although the canyon is not especially deep, escape options can be limited in certain sections. Flash flooding is a serious hazard and should not be underestimated.

Approach: From Winslow, head south on Hwy 87 to Hwy 99. Continue south on Hwy 99 for approximately 5 miles past the Clear Creek Reservoir crossing.

Multiple dirt roads branch off along this stretch. Around 5 to 5.5 miles from Hwy 87, locate a suitable dirt road and parking area near the canyon rim. Use a map or GPS for precise access, as multiple entry points exist.

From the parking area, head toward the drainage and locate a safe descent into the canyon. Entry into the canyon requires route finding and may involve steep scrambling depending on where you choose to descend.

Route Description: From the rim, descend into Clear Creek Canyon using a suitable scramble route. Once at the canyon floor, travel upstream through the canyon.

Expect:

• Frequent creek crossings and wading
• Possible swimming depending on conditions
• Light scrambling and uneven terrain
• Vegetation and brush in sections
• Route finding along the creek corridor

There is no single defined trail. Travel is dictated by terrain, water levels, and vegetation. This canyon can be explored for short distances near the reservoir or extended into a longer and more committing outing depending on your route choice.

Explore as much of the canyon as possible before hiking back to your vehicle.