Maiden Falls Adventure
Details
Maiden Falls is one of the many gems in West Clear Creek (Close to Camp Verde). A tranquil pool above feeds the falls, flowing along a twisting watercourse before tumbling down a wall painted in a kaleidoscope of colors.
It is a very rugged, remote, 7 1/2 out-and-back adventure located within the West Clear Creek Wilderness near Camp Verde, Arizona.
The route requires a steep 2,000-foot canyon descent, boulder scrambling, bushwhacking, and mandatory swimming through deep pools to reach the final cascades.
The hike back up the canyon is steep and tiring - Elevation gain: 2000 feet.
YOU WILL NEED A DRY BAG. YOU WILL NEED A DRY BAG.
Details:
Mileage: Round Trip: Around 7 1/2 miles
Elevation gain: 2000 feet
Time to complete hike: Around 8 hours.
Difficulty: Very Strenuous
Time of total time from Walmart and back: 12 ½ hours.
Time from Walmart to Trailhead: Around 2 hours
Pace: Steady - this is not a race.
Meeting location: Walmart: 2501 W Happy Valley Rd Phoenix, AZ 85085
On Walmart there is a large Walmart sign. We will meet directly across from this sign on the other side of the parking lot.
Once we leave Walmart we will meet again to ensure all vehicles are together at the junction of highway 260 and Forest Service 216, which is just east of Camp Verde.
Direction to trailhead from Camp Verde: Go east on Highway 260. Turn left on Forest Road 618. Then turn right on Forest Road 214. Turn right onto Forest Road 214A (rough) and follow it to the trailhead. If you have a low clearance 2WD vehicle, you can park at the turnoff for 214A and walk an extra mile to the trailhead.
I cannot guarantee you will be back by 8:00 PM. Things happen. The above are estimates. I try to overestimate times so nobody is surprised.
Suggestion: It’s best not to schedule other commitments right after the hike so you can stay flexible and enjoy the day without feeling rushed.
What to Bring:
A DRY BAG
- Hiking shoes/boots with solid traction that you do not mind getting wet
- Trekking poles
- Plenty of water + snacks/lunch
Liability Notice
The trip organizer is a volunteer, not a professional guide or first-aid provider. Participation is at your own risk. You are responsible for your own safety and that of any guests. Staying with the group is strongly encouraged. By signing up, you acknowledge that you assume full responsibility for yourself and agree not to hold the organizers or volunteers liable for any injuries or incidents.
