Joshua Crosby Dam – A Hidden Gem in Colorado City, Arizona
Discover the quiet charm of a modest dam set against the high‑desert backdrop of northern Arizona. Whether you’re a road‑trip enthusiast, a photography lover, or simply seeking an off‑the‑beaten‑path spot, Joshua Crosby Dam offers a surprisingly rewarding experience.
1. Introduction
Imagine a sleek concrete wall barely 14 feet tall, perched at nearly 6,200 feet above sea level, where the desert’s stillness is broken only by the gentle murmur of water. That’s Joshua Crosby Dam—a small but striking piece of engineering that quietly regulates the flow of the surrounding watershed in Colorado City, Arizona. While it doesn’t boast the fame of Hoover or Glen Canyon, this modest dam is a perfect stop for travelers craving authentic desert scenery, photo‑ops, and a glimpse into Arizona’s water‑management history.
2. About Joshua Crosby Dam
- Type: Concrete gravity dam 🏗️
- Location: Colorado City, Arizona, United States
- Coordinates: 36.407591 N, ‑113.243421 W
- Height: 4.26 m (≈ 14 ft)
- Altitude: 1,893 m (≈ 6,207 ft) above sea level
Joshua Crosby Dam was constructed to serve as a modest detention structure for the local watershed. Though the exact year of construction isn’t publicly documented, its design reflects the practical, low‑profile dams typical of the American Southwest—built to capture runoff, protect downstream farms, and sustain small spring-fed ecosystems.
Because the dam sits at a relatively high elevation, it enjoys cooler summer evenings and crisp winter mornings, making it a pleasant waypoint for hikers and cyclists traversing the high desert. Its modest size (just over four meters tall) means you can walk right up to the crest, feel the concrete underfoot, and watch water cascade over the spillway—a simple yet powerful reminder of how vital water is in this arid region.
Why it matters: In an area where water is a scarce commodity, even small structures like Joshua Crosby Dam play a crucial role in managing flash floods, recharging groundwater, and supporting nearby springs. For travelers, the dam offers an authentic slice of Arizona’s water‑conservation story—something you won’t find in a typical tourist brochure.
3. How to Get There
By Car
Joshua Crosby Dam is located just a few miles east of Colorado City, a small town on the Arizona‑Utah border. The most straightforward route is:
-
From St. George, UT:
- Take I‑15 South for about 30 mi.
- Exit onto UT‑9 East/Arizona State Route 59 (the road becomes AZ‑59 after the state line).
- Follow AZ‑59 for roughly 10 mi, then turn left onto a local gravel road marked “Crosby Dam Road.” -
From Phoenix, AZ:
- Head north on I‑17 to US‑89 North.
- Continue on US‑89 until you reach the junction with AZ‑59 near Hurricane.
- Follow AZ‑59 eastward as described above.
The final stretch is a paved, well‑maintained county road, but a high‑clearance vehicle is recommended during winter storms or after heavy rain when flash‑flood debris may accumulate.
GPS Navigation
Enter the exact coordinates 36.407591, -113.243421 into your navigation system or Google Maps for pinpoint accuracy. The coordinates will guide you to a small parking area right beside the dam.
Public Transportation
There is no direct public transit to the dam. The nearest bus stop is in Colorado City, so renting a car or joining a local tour is the most convenient option.
4. Best Time to Visit
| Season | Weather | Why Visit |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (March‑May) | Mild days (60‑75 °F), occasional desert blooms | Ideal for photography; water levels are often higher from snowmelt. |
| Summer (June‑August) | Hot (85‑100 °F) but cooler at the dam’s altitude | Early mornings offer comfortable temperatures; perfect for sunrise shots. |
| Fall (September‑November) | Pleasant (55‑70 °F), clear skies | Less crowds, vibrant desert colors, and comfortable hiking weather. |
| Winter (December‑February) | Cold (30‑50 °F), occasional snow | Dramatic contrast of snow‑capped cliffs and desert; great for low‑light photography. |
Pro tip: The dam’s spillway is most impressive after a spring rainstorm or during early summer monsoons when water rushes over the concrete crest. Check local weather forecasts before heading out.
5. What to Expect
When you arrive, you’ll find a modest parking pull‑out, a short, well‑marked trail leading to the dam’s edge, and panoramic views of the surrounding high desert plateau. The dam itself is low enough to walk across, allowing you to stand on the crest and watch water spill over—an excellent spot for a quick dip on a hot day (though the water is typically shallow).
Scenery: The landscape is a blend of rugged volcanic rock, sagebrush, and distant mesas. On clear days, you can see the red‑orange hues of the Virgin River valley far to the west.
Photography: The dam’s geometric lines contrast beautifully with the organic desert backdrop. Sunrise paints the concrete in warm gold, while sunset casts long shadows across the spillway. Don’t forget a wide‑angle lens to capture the expansive sky.
Wildlife: Keep an eye out for desert bighorn sheep, coyotes, and a variety of bird species that gather near the water—especially during spring migration.
Facilities: There are no restrooms or concession stands, so bring water, snacks, and a portable toilet if needed. The site is unstaffed, so practice Leave No Trace principles.
6. Nearby Attractions
Joshua Crosby Dam sits in a cluster of natural springs and water‑related sites that are perfect for a day‑long adventure. Below are the top nearby spots (distances are approximate driving miles):
| Attraction | Distance | What to See | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unnamed Spring | 4.2 km | A quiet spring surrounded by desert flora—great for a short hike and birdwatching. | Spring (4.2 km) |
| Crosby Detention Dam | 4.9 km | Another small detention structure that illustrates regional water management. | Crosby Detention Dam (4.9 km) |
| Unnamed Spring | 5.1 km | A shallow pool ideal for a quick dip; perfect for families. | Spring (5.1 km) |
| Cold Spring | 5.9 km | Known for its cooler water temperature—great for a refreshing break on hot days. | Cold Spring (5.9 km) |
| Unnamed Spring | 8.0 km | A larger spring with surrounding picnic areas and shaded spots. | Spring (8.0 km) |
Tip: Combine these stops into a “Spring Loop”—start at Joshua Crosby Dam, then head east to the nearby springs, and finish with a visit to the Crosby Detention Dam. The loop is under 20 km total, making it perfect for a relaxed morning or afternoon.
7. Travel Tips
| Tip | Details |
|---|---|
| Bring plenty of water | The desert climate can be dehydrating; carry at least 2 L per person. |
| Dress in layers | Temperatures swing dramatically from morning to afternoon, especially at 1,893 m altitude. |
| Sun protection | Wide‑brimmed hat, sunscreen (SPF 30+), and UV‑blocking sunglasses are essential. |
| Check road conditions | Some access roads are unpaved; after heavy rain, they may be muddy or washed out. |
| Leave no trace | Pack out all trash, stay on marked paths, and avoid disturbing wildlife. |
| Timing for photography | Arrive 30 minutes before sunrise or sunset for the best light and fewer crowds. |
| Safety | The spillway can be slippery when wet; watch your footing and keep children supervised. |
| Cell service | Spotty in the high desert; download offline maps before you leave. |
| Local culture | Colorado City is home to a close‑knit community; be respectful of private property and ask before crossing any unmarked paths. |
| Parking | The designated pull‑out holds 2–3 cars; arrive early on weekends to secure a spot. |
Wrap‑Up
Joshua Crosby Dam may be small in stature, but it packs a big punch for travelers seeking authentic Arizona desert experiences. From its quiet water flow and striking high‑altitude setting to the cluster of nearby springs, the dam offers a perfect blend of engineering curiosity, natural beauty, and peaceful solitude. Pack your camera, load up the car, and set your GPS to 36.407591, -113.243421—the desert’s hidden oasis is waiting.
Happy travels, and may your desert adventures be as refreshing as the spring water that feeds this humble dam!