
East Verde River Third Crossing
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
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds

East Verde River Third Crossing
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
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.
"A hidden gem worth visiting for cooling off, peaceful picnics, or a walk along the river."

🚗 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.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

First Crossing Day Use Area
Near Payson
Shady spots, trails, and shallow creek access perfect for families and a relaxing outdoor escape.

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
East Verde River
Ideal for toddlers and cooling off, with gentle waters and beautiful surrounding scenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respect Closures & Pack Out Trash
Day Pass & Early Arrival
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
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!
♻️ Pack It In, Pack It Out
Leave no trace! Take all your trash with you to keep this beautiful spot clean.
Water Wheel Falls in Payson
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.
👟 Easy Trails
Enjoy light hiking and exploring along the riverbanks. Trails are generally easy and scenic.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 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.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially if you plan on hiking or spending extended time outdoors.
👟 Easy Trails
Enjoy light hiking and exploring along the riverbanks. Trails are generally easy and scenic.
👨👩👧 Toddler Friendly
The shallow creek areas are perfect for little ones to splash and play safely.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
The day pass typically costs around $10, but it's best to confirm the current price at the fee machine upon arrival.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🏞️ 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.
Absolutely! The shallow creek areas are perfect for toddlers to play safely, and the picnic tables offer a comfortable spot for families to relax.
Yes, there is a bathroom facility available at the First Crossing Day Use Area, which is a convenient amenity for visitors.
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.
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.
📸 📸 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.
Yes, the river, surrounding trees, and rock formations provide excellent opportunities for landscape photography, especially during the softer light of morning or late afternoon.
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.
Early mornings offer beautiful soft light and fewer crowds, while late afternoons can provide warm, golden hour lighting.
The trails leading down to the creek and the bridge offer picturesque spots. Exploring along the riverbanks will reveal various scenic perspectives.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
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.
🎣 Anglers and Nature Enthusiasts
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the East Verde River Environment
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.
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.
Navigating Access and Fees
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.
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.





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