As a former Army medic who's treated some heat casualty victims, and who's experienced heat exhaustion myself first-hand, I can tell you that it's not enough just to "stay hydrated." You have to replace the electrolytes that the body is losing through sweating. Furthermore, in a dry climate like the desert, you won't be aware of how much water and electrolytes you're losing, because your sweat dries as fast as you can perspire. In situations like that, I would carry small packets of salt to put in my water or, nowadays, carry something like Gatorade (warning: check to make sure any "energy drinks" you carry do NOT contain caffeine, a diuretic). And be aware of the first signs of heat exhaustion: lightheadedness, weakness in the limbs, rapid, shallow pulse and breathing. Those signs come up on you quickly and with very little warning. Sorry to be such a downer, but seeing that woman sitting on the side of the trail broke my heart.
Yes, I'm sure search and rescue is getting tired of rescuing people without enough water or appropriate footwear. Maybe FIVE signs will get their attention! I figure it's like the Camelback Mountain of Payson - you get all kinds hiking a hike that isn't great for beginners or people not used to Arizona's climate.
On my july permit I ran into 9 people who ran out of water in the way up. All in bad shape. But this is typical. I carried extra water from the creek(had a filter) and was able to resupply 4 people before I also ran out
That’s very good of you. Did you get it near the spring? I was thinking about why that happens so often on this hike because it’s not that difficult compared to many other hikes in Arizona. It seems to me people go when it’s hot, for one, and the uphill hike up comes after spending a day in the sun. The cool water makes you forget there’s a long, hot, uphill hike ahead maybe? And all kinds of people want to see such a special place. The woman we met could hardly speak English, so I wonder how much she knew before she started. Thank you for being a good neighbor - I’m sure they appreciated it!
@wildpathsaz I filled my spare bladder at the top of the dam before heading out. I've met dozens of hikers in distress on that trail over the years. There is a wide range of reasons people get caught out. I've heard some silly things...but all of what you have mentioned are common.
Overnight camping is prohibited during permit season (Apr 1-Oct 1). However, it's usually still very nice in October, and that would be a great time to go. There are some campsites scattered around the area.
It pains me when I hear people say they hate Arizona because it’s hot and ugly. Just need to get out more! Arizona is incredibly diverse and has so many gems to discover any time of year. Thanks for the comment!
We brought enough for our needs, but it is good to note that most people should plan to bring one gallon (about 4 liters) per person, especially if they are not used to desert hiking. This is the Forest Service’s recommendation for this hike.
Had an older one, fiberglass tank, radial air cooled head and duel shocks. After market exhaust made that bike sing! Damn, wonder where that bike is now?!
Lol, not sure how that happened! Been hiking to Fossil Creek since the early 80s! There used to be a large dam at about the “ toilet bowl “, separated half the creek down a flume. Flume ran water all the way down to what was Childs power plant at the Verde. Not sure what year they removed the plant, dam, and the 4 mile long flume. Returned everything back to almost normal. Beautiful place, come in from the headwaters and your walking down a wash that’s dryer than a popcorn fart, suddenly the springs turn it into a crystal clear creek! If you enjoyed this hike and place look up West Clear Creek, next major canyon to the north. It’s even more beautiful! Happy Hiking!
Yes, between April 1 and October 1 you need a permit to hike Bob Bear trail. They become available a month in advance. Visit recreation.gov to get one!
No camping at the trailhead or along the trail this time of year, but there are many forest roads north of there along highways 87 and 260 where dispersed camping is allowed. There is also a reservable campground in Payson called Houston Mesa that would not be super far away. Good luck!
Sorry that happened to you. Luckily they didn’t actually undress 😌 They were wearing bathing suits since we had gone there to swim, and we were teasing our friend who took her shirt off because she felt it was too baggy and making her look fat in the pic. Appreciate the feedback.
Thanks for your comment! We only found it odd that there were so many identical signs. Not even the Grand Canyon has so many, and it’s a much more difficult hike. Preparedness is not a laughing matter, nor is risking anyone’s life. We found a distressed hiker along our way and helped her out and also mentioned that the signs should be heeded. We also mentioned that on our website.
From the accompanying post on our website: "If you’re in flip flops, if you haven’t hiked in ages, if you aren’t used to Arizona’s hot and dry climate and don’t have LOADS of water, then please do search and rescue a favor and choose another hike. We thought the numerous warning signs at the beginning of the trail were overkill until we found a hiker three miles in struggling, separated from her friends, wearing a flannel in the heat, almost out of water, and asking us for a Coke."
*edit edit edit* :D OK... so if you love the comment, and that is great, can you... maybe let me / us know if this is typical of you, or if you intend to maybe try and do better, or what? Note: I am no authority, and not coming down on you, just trying to do the best I can. Not trying to make drama either, at all.
We are big fans of being prepared and say as much on our blog post. We also came across a distressed hiker later in the video and said to make sure you heed the warning signs and that it's a bad choice for a first hike. So, the message on the signs is not a laughing matter, but there is a crazy number of them. More than I've seen anywhere else ever. I wonder if putting more identical signs out there actually helps reduce rescues or not. All that being said, we appreciate the feedback! Our style will never be for everyone, but we do try to be responsible hikers.
@@wildpathsaz Alright, apologies then - and thank you for the reply. That said, more signs probably only help so much, as evidenced by the number of rescues needed being approximately equal to the number of signs here... :D
@@wildpathsaz Did you leave the distressed hiker alone on the trail?? Was she able to communicate her position and condition to authorities? Was help on the way for her? Did she have enough water? Thanks.
@@justsmy5677 I had my Garmin 66i, but we decided she was not in need of formal rescue. We were able to get in touch with her friends who were about a mile father down the trail, give them her location, and follow up with them to find she made it out okay. We also gave her some of our water. Thanks for asking!
Tried to get a reservation, but they sold out for every weekend in August the same day they became available. Good luck getting a reservation during a weekend.
Yikes! That’s disappointing. We had no problem getting a weekday the day before. I’m guessing there’s a lot of interest in it right now due to it being reopened for this season after a lengthy closure.
Visit wildpathsaz.com/fossil-springs-bob-bear/ for details and a map
As a former Army medic who's treated some heat casualty victims, and who's experienced heat exhaustion myself first-hand, I can tell you that it's not enough just to "stay hydrated." You have to replace the electrolytes that the body is losing through sweating. Furthermore, in a dry climate like the desert, you won't be aware of how much water and electrolytes you're losing, because your sweat dries as fast as you can perspire. In situations like that, I would carry small packets of salt to put in my water or, nowadays, carry something like Gatorade (warning: check to make sure any "energy drinks" you carry do NOT contain caffeine, a diuretic). And be aware of the first signs of heat exhaustion: lightheadedness, weakness in the limbs, rapid, shallow pulse and breathing. Those signs come up on you quickly and with very little warning. Sorry to be such a downer, but seeing that woman sitting on the side of the trail broke my heart.
Great information everyone should be aware of. Thanks for sharing.
Subscribed!! You good ladies need a man's perspective....I'm here for you! Lol. Timmy C Arizona
😂 welcome to the channel and thanks for subscribing!
Is this place clothing optional?
Sorry, no.
Not to mention that was a bullet hole
Where? On one of the signs?
at 7:56 @@wildpathsaz
The meaning of signs for the most: Doesn’t apply to me, I’m not that stupid. 😂.
Yes, I'm sure search and rescue is getting tired of rescuing people without enough water or appropriate footwear. Maybe FIVE signs will get their attention! I figure it's like the Camelback Mountain of Payson - you get all kinds hiking a hike that isn't great for beginners or people not used to Arizona's climate.
Arizona is so awesome well done my friends
See you again have a great weekend be safe always
Thank you! We always say it's the best state in the union 😄
On my july permit I ran into 9 people who ran out of water in the way up. All in bad shape. But this is typical. I carried extra water from the creek(had a filter) and was able to resupply 4 people before I also ran out
That’s very good of you. Did you get it near the spring? I was thinking about why that happens so often on this hike because it’s not that difficult compared to many other hikes in Arizona. It seems to me people go when it’s hot, for one, and the uphill hike up comes after spending a day in the sun. The cool water makes you forget there’s a long, hot, uphill hike ahead maybe? And all kinds of people want to see such a special place. The woman we met could hardly speak English, so I wonder how much she knew before she started. Thank you for being a good neighbor - I’m sure they appreciated it!
@wildpathsaz I filled my spare bladder at the top of the dam before heading out. I've met dozens of hikers in distress on that trail over the years. There is a wide range of reasons people get caught out. I've heard some silly things...but all of what you have mentioned are common.
This is so beautiful!
Fun video! How hot was it on the day you went? How many hours were you hiking in and out?
Thank you! I would say it was probably in the 80's when we went, and it took a little over 2 hours each way to hike it.
I was there the other day! I couldn't reach the cave, the water was deep and I am not a good swimmer. I wanna go back and bring a floatie 😅
Which day? We went Wednesday. Yes, the water is deep and the current is swift there, so it’s not good if you’re not a strong swimmer.
@WildPathsAZ I was there on Tuesday, and I camped just outside of Strawberry till Wednesday! We always miss each other by a day or two!
@@sunkissedmary I guess that means we should do a collab some time :D
@@wildpathsaz oh my gosh, yes! 🙌🙌
Love it! Are there places to camp if I wanted to do it overnight? Do you know if I would need 2 permits for that?
Overnight camping is prohibited during permit season (Apr 1-Oct 1). However, it's usually still very nice in October, and that would be a great time to go. There are some campsites scattered around the area.
Is it possible to park with an RV?
Vehicles up to 22 feet
Hey david I have a 24 ft motorhome and trying to find out if there are any campsites near by or BLM camping
Definitely fun women! Got this viewer.
Thank you! Welcome to the channel
_adds hike to list_
Great video. Wow AZ is beautiful
It pains me when I hear people say they hate Arizona because it’s hot and ugly. Just need to get out more! Arizona is incredibly diverse and has so many gems to discover any time of year. Thanks for the comment!
Tourons in this video. Ugh
The signs are trying so hard to warn people, but I’m not sure how effective they are. I can’t blame people for wanting to go visit - it’s so special.
Such a beautiful place! Love the bloopers! 😂
Thank you!! 😁
How much further is the cave from the waterfall?
Like 50 yards. Just keep walking downstream on the right side until you see it!
Hi guys we are going there tomorrow with AZ friends. My first time so. I hope it’s not hard hike! Yikes! Was it good? I’m excited!🤩😊
It’s awesome! Just make sure you have hiking footwear and plenty of water. Remember it’s uphill all the way back!
@@wildpathsaz thanks for the heads up!
Cool place I think you were a little short on water there though
We brought enough for our needs, but it is good to note that most people should plan to bring one gallon (about 4 liters) per person, especially if they are not used to desert hiking. This is the Forest Service’s recommendation for this hike.
0:35 according to the New York Times editorial "A Curious Disease" May 27, 1876 page 6 column 6, women in pants have become men.
Wow, that’s part funny, part disturbing - glad we’ve come a long way since then.
@@wildpathsaz But today, men stand in relation to that in regard to the other basic leg garment. People continue to take psychiatry seriously.
Wow. Beautiful water
I like to think of it as a mini Havasupai
Can I get there with a regular vehicle or do I need a 4x4 ?? I only have a Hyundai 😭 and I really wanna go
No 4x4 needed 😁. I drove a Ford Fusion.
April is adorable.
We think so, too.
I live near Payson if she’s up for a date 😆
Had an older one, fiberglass tank, radial air cooled head and duel shocks. After market exhaust made that bike sing! Damn, wonder where that bike is now?!
Not sure what that has to do with hiking Fossil Springs, but sounds cool 😁
Lol, not sure how that happened! Been hiking to Fossil Creek since the early 80s! There used to be a large dam at about the “ toilet bowl “, separated half the creek down a flume. Flume ran water all the way down to what was Childs power plant at the Verde. Not sure what year they removed the plant, dam, and the 4 mile long flume. Returned everything back to almost normal. Beautiful place, come in from the headwaters and your walking down a wash that’s dryer than a popcorn fart, suddenly the springs turn it into a crystal clear creek! If you enjoyed this hike and place look up West Clear Creek, next major canyon to the north. It’s even more beautiful! Happy Hiking!
Do we need any permit to hike there?
Yes, between April 1 and October 1 you need a permit to hike Bob Bear trail. They become available a month in advance. Visit recreation.gov to get one!
Is there any camping near by 🙏
No camping at the trailhead or along the trail this time of year, but there are many forest roads north of there along highways 87 and 260 where dispersed camping is allowed. There is also a reservable campground in Payson called Houston Mesa that would not be super far away. Good luck!
How long was that hike
The hike is 8 miles round trip
72 degrees water year round
Yes, it’s amazing! But on a cool, cloudy day it still feels really cold 🥶
Sooooo how far was the hike
We clocked 8.5 miles 1639 feet of gain on the hike out. You can find all the details at this link wildpathsaz.com/fossil-springs-bob-bear/
Good video.
Thank you so much!
Assam, India.
Thanks for watching!
Very disrepectfull. I was watching with kids and was embarrassed at the end when you started getting undressed on camera.
Sorry that happened to you. Luckily they didn’t actually undress 😌 They were wearing bathing suits since we had gone there to swim, and we were teasing our friend who took her shirt off because she felt it was too baggy and making her look fat in the pic. Appreciate the feedback.
Looks liked you worked on merchandise at dollar store
Not sure what you are referring to, but thank you for watching!
You ladies are being so disrespectful to the men and women who risk their lives to save stupid people who do stupid things. Wake up! And grow up!
Thanks for your comment! We only found it odd that there were so many identical signs. Not even the Grand Canyon has so many, and it’s a much more difficult hike. Preparedness is not a laughing matter, nor is risking anyone’s life. We found a distressed hiker along our way and helped her out and also mentioned that the signs should be heeded. We also mentioned that on our website.
From the accompanying post on our website: "If you’re in flip flops, if you haven’t hiked in ages, if you aren’t used to Arizona’s hot and dry climate and don’t have LOADS of water, then please do search and rescue a favor and choose another hike.
We thought the numerous warning signs at the beginning of the trail were overkill until we found a hiker three miles in struggling, separated from her friends, wearing a flannel in the heat, almost out of water, and asking us for a Coke."
This is gorgeous, but we really should not be poking fun at those warning signs. Clicked the X as soon as that started.
Be respectful.
*edit edit edit*
:D
OK... so if you love the comment, and that is great, can you... maybe let me / us know if this is typical of you, or if you intend to maybe try and do better, or what?
Note: I am no authority, and not coming down on you, just trying to do the best I can. Not trying to make drama either, at all.
We are big fans of being prepared and say as much on our blog post. We also came across a distressed hiker later in the video and said to make sure you heed the warning signs and that it's a bad choice for a first hike. So, the message on the signs is not a laughing matter, but there is a crazy number of them. More than I've seen anywhere else ever. I wonder if putting more identical signs out there actually helps reduce rescues or not. All that being said, we appreciate the feedback! Our style will never be for everyone, but we do try to be responsible hikers.
@@wildpathsaz Alright, apologies then - and thank you for the reply.
That said, more signs probably only help so much, as evidenced by the number of rescues needed being approximately equal to the number of signs here... :D
@@wildpathsaz Did you leave the distressed hiker alone on the trail?? Was she able to communicate her position and condition to authorities? Was help on the way for her? Did she have enough water? Thanks.
@@justsmy5677 I had my Garmin 66i, but we decided she was not in need of formal rescue. We were able to get in touch with her friends who were about a mile father down the trail, give them her location, and follow up with them to find she made it out okay. We also gave her some of our water. Thanks for asking!
Tried to get a reservation, but they sold out for every weekend in August the same day they became available. Good luck getting a reservation during a weekend.
Yikes! That’s disappointing. We had no problem getting a weekday the day before. I’m guessing there’s a lot of interest in it right now due to it being reopened for this season after a lengthy closure.
Did you have to buy a permit?
Yes, you have to buy a $6 day use permit from recreation.gov. One per car, and you must display it in the windshield.