West Fork of Oak Creek Trail

About West Fork of Oak Creek Trail

West Fork of Oak Creek is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful hikes in Arizona, and during the fall color season in October, it becomes one of the most stunning canyon walks in the entire Southwest. This trail follows a perennial stream through a narrow, towering canyon draped in deciduous forest, creating a hiking experience that feels more like the Pacific Northwest than the desert state most people associate with Arizona. The trailhead is at the Call of the Canyon Day Use Area in Oak Creek Canyon, about 10 miles north of Sedona on Highway 89A.

The day use fee is $12 per vehicle, higher than the standard Red Rock Pass, and the parking lot has a fixed capacity. On fall weekends, particularly during peak color in mid-October, the lot fills before 9 AM and a line of cars forms along the highway. If fall colors are your goal, arrive by 7:30 AM or earlier.

The trail begins by crossing the ruins of the old Mayhew Lodge, a historic resort that burned in the 1980s. A few stone walls and foundations remain and are worth a moment's attention. From here, you descend to the creek and immediately enter another world.

The canyon walls rise hundreds of feet on either side, composed of red and white Coconino Sandstone and Supai Formation that creates a stunning vertical canvas. The trail crosses the creek multiple times over the course of the 3.2-mile route to its official end.

These crossings are the defining feature of the hike. In most seasons, you can rock-hop across or make short wading crossings in ankle-deep water. In spring during snowmelt or after heavy rains, the creek can run higher and the crossings become more involved.

Waterproof hiking shoes or sandals with good traction are highly recommended. The forest along the creek is remarkably diverse. Bigtooth maples provide the famous fall color, turning brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold in October.

Arizona sycamores contribute yellow, and Gambel oaks add russet tones. In summer, the canopy creates a cool, shaded corridor where temperatures run 15 to 20 degrees cooler than the surrounding desert. Other trees along the route include ponderosa pine, Douglas fir, Arizona walnut, and box elder.

The canyon narrows as you progress, and the walls lean in closer. Light filters through the canopy in shifting patterns, and the sound of the creek provides a constant soundtrack. This is a sensory hike, one where the interplay of light, water, rock, and forest creates an almost meditative experience.

Take your time and absorb it. Dogs are not permitted on this trail. The ecosystem is sensitive, and the Forest Service has restricted access to protect it.

This is strictly enforced. Also note that the trail is closed during certain winter months when ice makes the creek crossings dangerous. Check current conditions with the Coconino National Forest before visiting.

Bring lunch and a sit pad, as there are beautiful creekside spots perfect for a long break. This is not a trail to rush through. Give yourself the full three to four hours and savor every creek crossing, every shaft of light through the trees, and every glance up at those impossibly beautiful canyon walls.

Best Time to Hike

Best Season: March through November (fall colors peak mid-October)

For the most comfortable experience on West Fork of Oak Creek Trail, plan your hike during the recommended season. In the warmer months, start early in the morning to avoid peak heat, especially on exposed desert trails. Always check current weather conditions and trail status before heading out.