East Verde River – Third Crossing - Image 1
1 / 3

East Verde River Third Crossing

4.6
·77 reviews·Payson, United States

A serene riverside escape near Payson, offering shady picnic spots, easy trails, and shallow creek access perfect for families and relaxation.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Mornings

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdLow
Loading map...
East Verde River – Third Crossing - Image 1

East Verde River Third Crossing

Best Time

Mornings

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene riverside escape near Payson, offering shady picnic spots, easy trails, and shallow creek access perfect for families and relaxation.

4.6
(77 reviews)

"A hidden gem worth visiting for cooling off, peaceful picnics, or a walk along the river."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Buy Day Pass Early

Purchase your Recreational Pass at the machine before Shoofly Ruins. Don't forget cash!

♻️ Pack It In, Pack It Out

Leave no trace! Take all your trash with you to keep this beautiful spot clean.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

First Crossing Day Use Area

First Crossing Day Use Area

Near Payson

Shady spots, trails, and shallow creek access perfect for families and a relaxing outdoor escape.

River Trails

River Trails

Along the East Verde River

Wander along scenic paths, enjoy peaceful picnics, and explore the natural beauty of the riverbanks.

Shallow Creek Access

Shallow Creek Access

East Verde River

Ideal for toddlers and cooling off, with gentle waters and beautiful surrounding scenery.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Respect Closures & Pack Out Trash

Some areas around East Verde River Third Crossing may be closed. Always check current status and respect signage. Visitors are strongly urged to pack out all trash to preserve the natural beauty for everyone. Reddit

Day Pass & Early Arrival

A Recreational Pass is required for parking, purchase at the machine before the ruins. Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a parking spot and enjoy the best of this serene river spot. Reddit

Best Times

When
Mornings
Why
Beat the heat and crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
More peaceful experience
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Trout become active
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

East Verde River in Payson. First Crossing Day Use Area.

🚗 Buy Day Pass Early

Purchase your Recreational Pass at the machine before Shoofly Ruins. Don't forget cash! Reddit

♻️ Pack It In, Pack It Out

Leave no trace! Take all your trash with you to keep this beautiful spot clean. Reddit

reddit.com

Water Wheel Falls in Payson

reddit.com

Are there any river/creeks only a few feet deep that have clear water?

💧 Stay Hydrated

Bring plenty of water, especially if you plan on hiking or spending extended time outdoors. Reddit

👟 Easy Trails

Enjoy light hiking and exploring along the riverbanks. Trails are generally easy and scenic. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Buy Day Pass Early

Purchase your Recreational Pass at the machine before Shoofly Ruins. Don't forget cash! Reddit

♻️ Pack It In, Pack It Out

Leave no trace! Take all your trash with you to keep this beautiful spot clean. Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

Bring plenty of water, especially if you plan on hiking or spending extended time outdoors. Reddit

👟 Easy Trails

Enjoy light hiking and exploring along the riverbanks. Trails are generally easy and scenic. Reddit

👨‍👩‍👧 Toddler Friendly

The shallow creek areas are perfect for little ones to splash and play safely. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(77 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the First Crossing Day Use Area a beautiful and relaxing spot with easy hiking and shallow creek access, perfect for families. While praised for its natural beauty and amenities like bathrooms and bear-proof trash cans, some areas may be closed, and visitors are strongly reminded to pack out all trash and purchase the required day pass.

"First Crossing Day Use Area near Payson is a beautiful and relaxing spot for a quick outdoor escape. The area has plenty of shady spots and access to trails for light hiking and exploring.

It’s a great spot for families, with shallowa for kids and scenic views all around. Arrive early to get a good parking spot and bring cash for the $10 fee. Whether you’re looking to cool off in the water, enjoy a peaceful picnic, or take a walk along the river, First Crossing is a hidden gem worth visiting!"

Kaitlynn Baker

"Nice easy hiking area, day use. It's has a bathroom and picnic tables. Bear proof trash cans, which I thought was cool.
A Recreational Pass is Required to park here. The fee machine is on the way to the Crossings.
Please pick up after yourself so we can all enjoy the area. Thankfully it was cleaned up by a volunteer while I was there, they are angels.
Don't forget to drink water while hiking."

Mister Wayne

"DON'T FORGET TO BUY YOUR DAY PASS!! You have to purchase your day pass at the machine which is located right before Shoofly Ruins. But it's a nice calm spot next to the creek. No hiking required. Great place to bring toddlers, and maybe enjoy a picnic in the shade. FYI - There IS a bathroom here."

Chad Zindel

What People Like

Beautiful scenery
Shallow creek access
Shady picnic spots

What People Dislike

Area closures
Trash left behind

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The East Verde River Third Crossing is located near Payson, Arizona. Access typically involves driving towards the Shoofly Ruins area to find the day-use areas and parking. Always check for current road conditions and any posted closures before you go. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available at the First Crossing Day Use Area. However, it's recommended to arrive early, especially on weekends, as spots can fill up quickly. Reddit

The day pass machine is conveniently located right before the Shoofly Ruins, on the way to the crossings. Make sure to purchase your pass here before proceeding to the parking areas. Reddit

The First Crossing Day Use Area offers access to the river. There are trails that lead down to the bridge and other paths that take you directly to the creek. Reddit

Road conditions can vary. While some reviews mention easy access, it's always wise to check local forest service updates for any alerts or closures, especially after inclement weather. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, a Recreational Pass is required to park at the First Crossing Day Use Area. The fee can be paid at a machine located before the Shoofly Ruins. Reddit

The day pass typically costs around $10, but it's best to confirm the current price at the fee machine upon arrival. Reddit

You must purchase your day pass at the designated machine, which is situated on the way to the crossings, just before you reach the Shoofly Ruins. Reddit

There have been reports of certain areas being closed to the public. It's crucial to respect all posted signs and closures to ensure safety and preserve the environment. Reddit

While not explicitly mentioned in all reviews, typically a standard Recreational Pass is required. It's advisable to check with the Tonto National Forest for specific pass acceptance. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy light hiking, picnicking in shady spots, wading in the shallow creek, and fishing. The area offers a relaxing outdoor escape with scenic views. Reddit

Absolutely! The shallow creek areas are perfect for toddlers to play safely, and the picnic tables offer a comfortable spot for families to relax. Reddit

Yes, there is a bathroom facility available at the First Crossing Day Use Area, which is a convenient amenity for visitors. Reddit

You can wander along the trails that lead down to the creek or the bridge. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the natural beauty of the East Verde River. Reddit

Yes, fishing is permitted in the East Verde River. Reviews mention that trout become more active as the weather warms up, making it a good spot for anglers. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the scenic river views, the shaded picnic areas, and the gentle flow of the creek. The natural landscape offers beautiful backdrops for photography. Reddit

Yes, the river, surrounding trees, and rock formations provide excellent opportunities for landscape photography, especially during the softer light of morning or late afternoon. Reddit

While not guaranteed, the natural environment may offer chances to photograph local birds or other small wildlife. Patience and a good zoom lens are key. Reddit

Early mornings offer beautiful soft light and fewer crowds, while late afternoons can provide warm, golden hour lighting. Reddit

The trails leading down to the creek and the bridge offer picturesque spots. Exploring along the riverbanks will reveal various scenic perspectives. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Young Children

The First Crossing Day Use Area is a fantastic spot for families with young children. The shallow creek access is a major draw, providing a safe and fun environment for toddlers to splash and play without the risks associated with deeper water. The presence of picnic tables in shady areas makes it easy to enjoy a meal or snack break while keeping an eye on the kids. Reddit

Remember to bring plenty of water and sun protection for everyone. The easy, light hiking trails are also manageable for little legs, allowing for short explorations along the riverbanks. Ensuring you have your day pass sorted upon arrival will make your family outing smooth and enjoyable. Reddit

🎣 Anglers and Nature Enthusiasts

For those interested in fishing, the East Verde River is known to be home to trout, which become more active as the weather warms. The First Crossing area provides accessible points along the river for casting a line. Beyond fishing, the scenic trails offer a pleasant experience for nature lovers who enjoy light hiking and observing the riparian environment. Reddit

Remember to check local fishing regulations and obtain any necessary licenses. The peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty make it a rewarding destination for a day spent connecting with nature. Be sure to pack out all trash to help preserve this delicate ecosystem. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Understanding the East Verde River Environment

The East Verde River is a vital waterway in the Tonto National Forest, offering a refreshing escape from the Arizona heat. The First Crossing Day Use Area is a popular access point, known for its shady spots and gentle river access, making it ideal for families and those seeking a relaxed outdoor experience. Visitors often praise the bear-proof trash cans, highlighting the forest service's efforts to maintain the area's cleanliness. Reddit

It's important to note that environmental stewardship is key here. Many visitors emphasize the need to pack out all trash and respect the natural surroundings. This helps preserve the river's beauty and ensures it remains a welcoming place for future visitors. Remember to always check for any posted closures as certain areas may be restricted for conservation or safety reasons. Reddit

Beyond the immediate picnic areas, the river supports a diverse ecosystem. Anglers might find success fishing for trout, especially as the weather warms. The surrounding trails offer opportunities for light hiking and exploring the riparian landscape, providing a more immersive experience in the natural beauty of the area. Reddit

Navigating Access and Fees

Accessing the East Verde River Third Crossing, particularly the First Crossing Day Use Area, requires a bit of planning regarding fees and entry. A Recreational Pass is mandatory for parking, and visitors are advised to purchase this at the designated fee machine. This machine is typically located on the route to the crossing, just before reaching the Shoofly Ruins, so plan to stop there first. Reddit

Many travelers recommend arriving early, especially during peak seasons or weekends, to guarantee a parking spot. This also allows for a more peaceful experience before the area becomes busy. Bringing cash for the fee machine is a good precaution, as electronic payment systems can sometimes be unreliable. Reddit

It's also crucial to be aware of any area closures. Social media discussions and local advice highlight that some sections might be off-limits. Always heed posted signs and verify current access status with the Tonto National Forest to avoid any inconvenience or potential fines. Reddit

You may also like