Verde River in Arizona

Trip Overview

The Verde River @ Clarkdale project covers several miles of incredible scenery, nature and peace in one of the southwest's most beautiful waterways, the Verde River.

Put in a few miles upstream from the Tuzigoot National Monument bridge over the Verde and float alongside cliffs once populated by the prehistoric Sinagua people of central Arizona. Their cliff dwellings are visible above you, while you float through some of the most pristine Cottonwood/Willow riparian areas anywhere in the world.

Normal flows in this stretch range from about 100 CFS in the winter to 50-60 CFS in mid-summer. The Verde offers incredible beauty, abundant wildlife and some of the best birding anywhere in the United States.

Accommodations:

Good accommodations in Clarkdale and Cottonwood - great food and conversation at the "Main Street Cafe" in Clarkdale, owned by an ex-Colorado River guide and paddling enthusiast!

Fees:

None required

Directions:

From Phoenix, take Interstate 17 to Camp Verde, then follow the signs to Tuzigoot National Monument, in Clarkdale. You'll cross the river just after turning off Broadway in Clarkdale onto Tuzigoot Road. Take a left north on Sycamore Canyon Road, just after the bridge to reach some of the more secluded and enticing put-ins. You can park one of your cars by turning into the park area just past the bridge on the right.

Contact:

Town of Clarkdale:

www.clarkdale.az.gov