Bell Trail Wet Beaver Creek
Hike to a stunning desert oasis, 'The Crack,' for a refreshing swim in Wet Beaver Creek. Enjoy scenic desert trails and natural beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Bell Trail Wet Beaver Creek
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike to a stunning desert oasis, 'The Crack,' for a refreshing swim in Wet Beaver Creek. Enjoy scenic desert trails and natural beauty.
"An oasis in the high desert, so worth the unshaded hike in!"
💧 Bring More Water Than You Think
The trail is hot with minimal shade. Stay hydrated to avoid heat exhaustion!
☀️ Start Your Hike Early
Beat the midday sun and secure parking by starting your adventure at dawn.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Crack Swimming Hole
End of Bell Trail
An iconic, refreshing oasis with clear water, perfect for swimming and cliff jumping. A true reward after the hike.
Wet Beaver Creek Access Points
Along Bell Trail
Numerous spots to access the creek for wading, exploring, or simply enjoying the sound of flowing water.
Desert Scenery and Wildlife
Bell Trail
Experience striking desert landscapes and keep an eye out for local wildlife like javelinas and deer.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Trail Etiquette and Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Bring More Water Than You Think
The trail is hot with minimal shade. Stay hydrated to avoid heat exhaustion!
☀️ Start Your Hike Early
Beat the midday sun and secure parking by starting your adventure at dawn. 
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The trail has loose rocks, so good hiking shoes are essential for a comfortable and safe trek.
♻️ Leave No Trace
Pack out everything you pack in to keep this beautiful spot pristine for everyone.
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Bring More Water Than You Think
The trail is hot with minimal shade. Stay hydrated to avoid heat exhaustion!
☀️ Start Your Hike Early
Beat the midday sun and secure parking by starting your adventure at dawn.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The trail has loose rocks, so good hiking shoes are essential for a comfortable and safe trek.
♻️ Leave No Trace
Pack out everything you pack in to keep this beautiful spot pristine for everyone.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Leashed dogs are welcome on the Bell Trail, making it a great outing for furry friends too!
🚗 Parking Tips
Arrive early for the main lot. Overflow parking is available but adds to the hike distance.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Bell Trail's stunning 'Crack' swimming hole, calling it a refreshing oasis and a must-visit spot. The trail offers beautiful desert scenery and opportunities to explore Wet Beaver Creek. However, the lack of shade and potential for crowds, especially on weekends, are common drawbacks.
"This is such a wonderful trail because there are so many things to do. Regardless of how far you want to walk there are lots of opportunities to swim and lots of spots to go down to the river. if you go down to the river and walk it rather than the trail there are tons of swim spots, swings into the water, rocks to jump off of, fishing spots and many other things. I personally found a very cool old structure that I presume to have been a water house that drew water up from the river. If you go down to the river the second you can hear it and walk the river you should be able to find it, it’s on the opposite side of the river though so you will have to cross the rocks to get there."
Eva Fabre
"Parking was easy, there was a Pay Station for the park pass at the entrance of the hike gate you had the option to purchase a “day pass” or a week pass.
The restroom was okay, toilet paper was low and was a bit untidy but honestly not horrible compared to others.
The trail itself was beautiful! A lot of loose rocks. Not a lot of shade so bring sunscreen and plenty of water + snacks.
We carried our 2 and 4 year old and started super early but the little ones got tired of the trail fast so we had to cut the hike shorter unfortunately"
Jennifer Henson
"Nice out and back hike to the crack. Great swimming hole, but it can be busy during the weekend."
Hoai Le
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bell Trail is located about 25 minutes southeast of Sedona, near Rimrock and Camp Verde. Many travelers use GPS to navigate to the trailhead, which is often marked as Bell Trail No. 13.
Generally, high clearance is not required for the Bell Trail trailhead. Most standard vehicles can access the parking area.
Parking can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Arriving very early in the morning is highly recommended. Overflow parking is available but adds to the hike.
The initial part of the Bell Trail is relatively flat and easy, but it becomes more moderate with some climbs as you approach the rocks and the Crack. It's considered moderate overall.
While Bell Trail leads to the most popular spot, 'The Crack,' Wet Beaver Creek can be accessed from various points. However, Bell Trail is the recommended route for reaching the main swimming hole.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Many visitors report that Bell Trail is free to access and does not require a permit. However, some reviews mention a pay station for a day or week pass, so it's wise to be prepared for that possibility.
Bell Trail is an outdoor natural area and is generally accessible from sunrise to sunset. There are no official operating hours, but it's best to hike during daylight.
While some sources indicate it's free, others mention a pay station for park passes. It's advisable to check for any posted fees at the trailhead or be prepared to pay a day-use fee.
Yes, swimming is a major draw at The Crack! The clear, cool water is perfect for a refreshing dip, especially after the hike.
Yes, there is a vault toilet at the trailhead, though its condition can vary. It's always a good idea to bring your own hand sanitizer.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike to 'The Crack' swimming hole is approximately 3.5 miles one-way, making it a 7-mile round trip. Some sources cite 6 miles round trip.
The elevation gain is around 597 feet over the 7-mile round trip, making it a moderate hike with some uphill sections.
No, the Bell Trail is known for having very little shade, making it crucial to bring sun protection and plenty of water.
The trail features a mix of easy flat sections and some moderate climbs, with a lot of loose rocks.
Yes, 'The Crack' is a popular spot for cliff jumping, with various heights available for adventurous visitors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly at the Bell Trailhead. You'll need to bring your own snacks and water for the hike. Restaurants are available in nearby Sedona or Camp Verde.
Picnicking is a great idea! Pack your own food and drinks to enjoy by the creek. Remember to pack out all your trash.
Bring plenty of water, high-energy snacks like trail mix, fruits, and sandwiches. Avoid bringing items that can spoil easily in the heat.
📸 📸 Photography
The Crack swimming hole itself is incredibly photogenic. Also, look for scenic overlooks along the trail and the unique rock formations near the creek.
Early morning offers soft light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the serene beauty. Late afternoon provides golden hour light.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive desert scenery and the swimming hole. A waterproof phone case is useful if you plan on getting close to the water.
Drone usage is often restricted in national forests and wilderness areas. It's best to check current regulations with the Coconino National Forest before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key recommendations: Start extremely early to avoid the worst heat, bring significantly more water than you think you'll need, and pack plenty of snacks. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are a must for little feet navigating the loose rocks. While dogs are allowed, ensure they are well-behaved and leashed.
💰 Budget Travelers
Key savings: Pack all your own food and water to avoid purchasing expensive items near the trailhead. Since there are no facilities, this is the most economical approach. Focus on the natural beauty and the refreshing swim as your main entertainment, rather than seeking paid attractions.
🐶 Dog Owners
Important considerations: Ensure your dog is comfortable with hiking on uneven, rocky terrain. Bring plenty of water specifically for your dog, as they can dehydrate quickly in the heat. Always clean up after your pet and keep them under control to ensure a positive experience for all visitors.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of 'The Crack'
+1While 'The Crack' is the main attraction, the journey along Bell Trail is also rewarding. The trail winds through striking desert scenery, offering glimpses of Arizona's unique flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for wildlife; sightings of javelinas and deer have been reported by hikers. The trail itself presents a moderate challenge, with some loose rocks and uphill sections, ensuring you earn that refreshing swim.
It's important to remember that 'The Crack' can get crowded, especially on weekends. To fully enjoy this natural wonder, consider visiting during the week or arriving very early in the morning. This will not only help you avoid the largest crowds but also the most intense midday heat.
+1Navigating the Bell Trail
While the trail is generally considered moderate, the heat can significantly increase the difficulty. Starting early is highly recommended by many who have experienced the hike. This strategy not only helps with temperature regulation but also increases your chances of securing parking at the trailhead, which can be limited.
+1For those looking for a less strenuous experience, the initial part of the trail offers pleasant walking and access to various points along Wet Beaver Creek. However, the most iconic swimming spot, 'The Crack,' is at the end of the 7-mile journey. Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles by packing out all trash and respecting the natural environment.
+1Planning Your Visit: Practicalities
This trail is a fantastic option for dog owners, as leashed dogs are welcome. It's a great way to include your furry companions in your Arizona adventures. However, remember to bring extra water for them as well, given the lack of shade and the desert heat.
When it comes to dining, there are no facilities at the trailhead. This means all your food and drinks need to be packed in. Plan for a picnic lunch or substantial snacks to fuel your hike and enjoy by the creek. Remember to pack out everything you bring in to help preserve the natural beauty of the area.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit