West Fork of Oak Creek Trail

West Fork is the cool, green counterpoint to Sedona’s sunbaked red-rock overlooks. Sandstone walls rise above a winding creek, cottonwoods and maples crowd the banks, and the canyon narrows into an almost cathedral-like passage. The experience changes with the season: spring brings fresh leaves and lively water, while autumn can paint the creek corridor gold and copper.

The first part of the route leads past traces of the old Mayhew Lodge area before entering the increasingly intimate canyon. Expect to cross the creek repeatedly on stones or in shallow water; the number and difficulty of crossings change after storms. A six-mile out-and-back is a practical day-hike objective, while the much longer canyon continuation is a different, more demanding undertaking.

ONCE YOU’RE THERE Start at Call of the Canyon day-use area on Highway 89A. Follow the signed West Fork Trail into the drainage, cross where the maintained route requires and turn around at a distance appropriate to daylight and water conditions. Do not assume a dry-foot crossing is always available.

WHAT MAKES THIS PLACE SPECIAL The canyon’s shade is created by its orientation, tall walls and persistent water. Watch for the contrast between riparian vegetation beside the creek and drier shrubs on exposed benches; fall leaf color can be spectacular but also brings crowds.

DON’T MISS THIS Take a few minutes to pause at the most distinctive part of the route rather than treating it as a checkpoint. The canyon’s shade is created by its orientation, tall walls and persistent water. Watch for the contrast between riparian vegetation beside the creek and drier shrubs on exposed benches; fall leaf color can be spectacular but also brings crowds.

TRAIL CONDITIONS & SAFETY Flash flooding is a serious canyon hazard. Check the upstream forecast, not just the sky overhead, and avoid the route during storms. Parking fills early on busy weekends, and cold water or icy rocks can make crossings more difficult.

FEES, PERMITS & ACCESS Call of the Canyon day-use parking typically charges a fee; check the current posted rate. Check the managing organization’s latest notices before visiting; access policies and prices can change.

BEST TIME TO VISIT Cool mornings and shoulder-season conditions are generally more comfortable for this outing. Flash flooding is a serious canyon hazard.