Basics
- Location:
- Put in is about 25 miles south of Camp Verde near the town of Childs
- Class:
- Up to Class III
- River Length
- 33 miles
- Time:
- 3 - 4 day trips
- Season:
- February to April
Description
The Verde River is Arizona's only national wild and scenic river. The segment from near the town of Childs to Horseshoe Reservoir runs most of the way through the Mazatzal Wilderness. This is a pristine riparian area.
To be designated a national wild and scenic river, the river must posses one or more specific "outstandingly remarkable values." The Verde River was found to contain outstandingly remarkable scenic, fish & wildlife, and historic & cultural values.
Trips run from February to April when spring run-off brings the whitewater up to Class 3. While the Verde River can be floated practically any month of the year, its primary river-running season is February to April with the best being March and April. Because the amount of run-off is so unpredictable, you'll always want to check conditions ahead of time. Guides are available.
This trip can also be started from Beasley Flats which adds 16 miles.
River Details
Setting:
Desert Canyon
Class:
Up to Class III
River Length
33 miles
Time
3 - 4 day trips
Season:
February to April
Guides Available?
Yes
Camping Info
No permits required
Additional Details
If you plan to do some river-running on this river, we strongly suggest you request a free copy of the Verde River Recreation Opportunity Guide which has been written especially for that activity on this river. It gives detailed directions to River Access Points, shows locations of rapids, etc., and provides other important information. Copies may be requested at local Forest Service Offices or from the Forest Supervisor''s Office of the Tonto National Forest (telephone: 602-225-5200).
