Clear Creek Reservoir - Image 1
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Clear Creek Reservoir

4.7
·62 reviews·, United States

A desert oasis near Winslow, AZ, offering cool waters for paddleboarding, kayaking, fishing, and unique bouldering challenges.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful paddling

CrowdLow
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Clear Creek Reservoir - Image 1

Clear Creek Reservoir

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful paddling

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A desert oasis near Winslow, AZ, offering cool waters for paddleboarding, kayaking, fishing, and unique bouldering challenges.

4.7
(62 reviews)

"Beautiful lake and view, not too hard to access and a great spot to cool off!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Weekday Paddling Bliss

Visit on a weekday for a more private experience on the water. :kayak:

Cold Water Dip

The water is refreshingly cold, perfect for cooling off on hot days! :snowflake:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Paddleboarding Paradise

Paddleboarding Paradise

Main Reservoir Area

Glide across the cool, clear waters surrounded by desert landscapes. A perfect way to beat the heat!

Bouldering Adventures

Bouldering Adventures

Rock formations near the water's edge

Challenge yourself with unique boulder problems, including impressive dynos and challenging lines.

Fishing Hotspot

Fishing Hotspot

Various points around the reservoir

Cast a line for Tiger Muskie, sucker, and trout in this picturesque fishing destination.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Heat & Crowds

Escape the Arizona sun at Clear Creek Reservoir! Visit on a weekday for a more serene experience, especially if you plan to paddleboard or kayak. The water is refreshingly cold, making it ideal for hot summer days.

Access & Activities

Clear Creek Reservoir is an oasis near Winslow, perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. While access is generally good, be prepared for a drive through the desert. The water temperature can be quite cool, even in summer.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful paddling
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Escape the desert heat
Crowd
Medium
When
October
Why
Beautiful mountain views
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Last Day of Summer, V3 Clear Creek Reservoir, Winslow, AZ A jumpy little gem from Clear Creek 💥 The start dyno is definitely the compiest dyno I’ve ever done outside! *I think the technical way to finish this boulder is straight up versus going out right like I did in the video 😂 🎥: @b_enix_
sierrablaircoyl
226.7K likes • 3.3M views

Weekday Paddling Bliss

Visit on a weekday for a more private experience on the water. :kayak:

Cold Water Dip

The water is refreshingly cold, perfect for cooling off on hot days! :snowflake:

Lazy day on Clear Creek Reservoir. Go in a weekday if you can and you have the place mostly to yourselves. Got our right before a storm hit and then had some lunch in Winslow. #az #azcheck #paddleboarding #winslow #paddling #clearcreek
azpaddlegirl
453 likes • 7.8K views
Wrath of Kong, V5 Clear Creek Reservoir, AZ Another one of my favorite lines at Clear Creek 🩵 📷: @b_enix_
sierrablaircoyl
8.9K likes • 144.8K views

Bouldering Challenge

Try the 'Last Day of Summer' dyno for a unique climbing experience. :rock:

Fishing Variety

Catch Tiger Muskie, sucker, and trout. :fishing_pole:

Mchood Park/ Clear Creek reservoir! Near Winslow in the middle of the desert, is this beautiful oasis! It is definitely worth the drive for a kayak or paddleboard trip! The water is cold, best to go when you can’t stand the heat in Phoenix! #PaddleAZ #KayakAZ #Arizona #ExploreArizona #ArizonaAdventure #Winslow #NorthernArizona #OptOutside #Kayak #hikeaz #exploreaz You can camp. It’s busy with l...
sarah_elizabeth_williams
181 likes • 3.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Weekday Paddling Bliss

Visit on a weekday for a more private experience on the water. :kayak:

Cold Water Dip

The water is refreshingly cold, perfect for cooling off on hot days! :snowflake:

Bouldering Challenge

Try the 'Last Day of Summer' dyno for a unique climbing experience. :rock:

Fishing Variety

Catch Tiger Muskie, sucker, and trout. :fishing_pole:

Easy Access

Type 'Clear Creek Reservoir' into Google Maps for direct navigation. :round_pushpin:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(62 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Clear Creek Reservoir for its beautiful, peaceful atmosphere and stunning mountain and lake views, especially in October. It's noted as an accessible oasis perfect for paddleboarding, kayaking, and fishing, offering a refreshing escape from the heat.

"Beautiful and peaceful in October."

Nick Sullivan

"This place has one of the best views of the mountains and lakes near Colorado Springs. You should definitely check it out if you want to see some breathtaking nature."

Maruf Ahamed

"Beautiful lake and view , not to hard to access and I will have to come check out in summer ."

Jared Jacobson

What People Like

Beautiful views
Peaceful atmosphere
Refreshing water

What People Dislike

Can get crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Clear Creek Reservoir is located near Winslow, AZ, off the I-40 freeway. From Phoenix, you'll typically drive north towards Flagstaff and then east on I-40. The drive is through the desert, and you'll find it's a worthwhile oasis. Use 'Clear Creek Reservoir' in your GPS for direct navigation to the parking lot. Instagram+1

Yes, it's relatively easy to find by typing 'Clear Creek Reservoir' into your GPS. It's located right outside Winslow, making it a convenient stop if you're traveling along I-40. Instagram

The drive is through a desert landscape, which can be quite scenic. It's a good option for a day trip when you want to escape the heat of cities like Phoenix. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is no mention of an entrance fee for Clear Creek Reservoir in the provided information. It appears to be a public access area. Instagram+1

Clear Creek Reservoir is an outdoor natural area, so it's generally accessible during daylight hours. Specific operating hours are not listed, but it's best to plan your visit during daylight for safety and enjoyment. Instagram

Based on the information, reservations are not mentioned for general access to Clear Creek Reservoir. However, if you plan on camping, it's always a good idea to check for any specific reservation requirements. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Clear Creek Reservoir is popular for paddleboarding, kayaking, fishing, and bouldering. It's a great spot to cool off and enjoy nature. Instagram+4

The water at Clear Creek Reservoir is described as cold, with temperatures varying between 10-15°C (50-58°F) depending on proximity to the inlet. It's perfect for cooling off in the summer heat. Instagram+1

You can fish for Tiger Muskie, sucker, and trout at Clear Creek Reservoir. Reddit

Yes, Clear Creek Reservoir is known for its bouldering opportunities, including challenging dynos and various lines. Instagram+2

It can get busy, especially on hot summer days. Visiting on a weekday is recommended for a more peaceful experience. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The reservoir offers beautiful views of mountains and lakes, making it a picturesque spot. Capture the serene water, desert surroundings, and any wildlife you might encounter. The bouldering action also makes for dynamic shots. Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. However, the stark desert light can also create dramatic images. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Clear Creek Reservoir offers a refreshing escape for families looking to cool off. The cold water is perfect for kids to splash around in, and paddleboarding or kayaking can be a fun family activity. Instagram+1 While there aren't specific playground facilities mentioned, the natural environment provides ample space for exploration and play. Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as amenities might be limited. Instagram

🎣 Anglers

Clear Creek Reservoir is a promising spot for fishing, with reports of Tiger Muskie, sucker, and trout. Reddit The tranquil setting makes for a relaxing fishing trip. Remember to check local regulations and ensure you have the appropriate fishing license before you go. The reservoir's accessibility makes it a convenient location for a day of fishing.

🧗‍♀️ Adventurous Climbers

For the adventurous, Clear Creek Reservoir presents a unique bouldering opportunity. The rock formations offer challenging routes, including dynamic dynos that will test your skills. Instagram+2 It's a great chance to combine your love for climbing with the beauty of a desert oasis. Be sure to have a spotter and appropriate safety gear.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Water Activities at Clear Creek Reservoir

Clear Creek Reservoir is a fantastic destination for water enthusiasts looking to escape the Arizona heat. Paddleboarding and kayaking are incredibly popular here, offering a serene way to explore the water and enjoy the surrounding desert scenery. The water is notably cold, making it an invigorating experience, especially during the peak summer months. Instagram+3

For those who enjoy fishing, the reservoir is home to Tiger Muskie, sucker, and trout, providing a good opportunity for anglers. Remember to check local fishing regulations and obtain any necessary licenses before casting your line. Reddit

While not explicitly detailed, the presence of a bridge and creek suggests potential for swimming, though the cold water temperature might deter some. Always exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings when engaging in any water activities. Instagram

Bouldering and Climbing

Clear Creek Reservoir is a surprising gem for bouldering enthusiasts. The rock formations near the water's edge offer a unique setting for climbing. Social media content highlights challenging routes, including impressive dynos and difficult lines that attract climbers. Instagram+2

One notable problem mentioned is 'Last Day of Summer,' which features a particularly 'compiest' dyno. Another is 'Wrath of Kong,' a V5 line. Climbers often use paddleboards for safety, ensuring they are positioned underneath during attempts, especially for dynamic moves. Instagram+1

This bouldering scene adds an adventurous dimension to the reservoir, appealing to those who seek both aquatic and terrestrial challenges. It's a testament to the diverse recreational opportunities available at this desert oasis.

Best Times to Visit for Different Experiences

To make the most of your visit to Clear Creek Reservoir, timing is key. For a peaceful paddleboarding or kayaking experience, aim for weekday mornings. This is when you're most likely to have the reservoir mostly to yourself, allowing for a truly serene escape. Instagram

If your primary goal is to beat the intense Arizona heat, summer afternoons are ideal. The cold water provides a welcome respite from the scorching temperatures. Instagram+1

For those who appreciate scenic beauty and a tranquil atmosphere, October is highlighted as a beautiful time to visit, offering stunning mountain views without the peak summer crowds. Reddit

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