VERDE RIVER BACKWATERS
A quiet road shaded by mesquite and cottonwood trees leads to Tavasci Marsh in the backwaters of the Verde River in Dead Horse Ranch State Park. A viewing platform overlooks the waterfowl magnet, with Tuzigoot National Monument visible across the pond.
Getting There: From the Interstate 17/State Route 260 junction in Camp Verde, go 11 miles west (toward Cottonwood) to Main Street (State Route 89A) and turn left. Continue through Cottonwood on Main, turn right on 10th Street and follow the signs to the park. From the park entrance, follow the main road to Flycatcher Road (second road on the left) where there’s a “Tavasci Marsh” sign. Follow this road less than a mile to the signed parking area.
Length: 3 miles round trip
Rating: easy
Kid Friendly: YES
Pet Friendly: NO
Elevation: 3,300-3,350 feet
Best Season: October-April
Fee: $7 daily fee per vehicle
Photo credit Mare Czinar/PHOENIX
