Spring may start with a chill, but soon new life is evident everywhere you look. Truly a beautiful hike along the creek while you are surrounded by the canyon and red rocks throughout. Love it, it gets crowded in the middle of the day. Id love to hike this trail in every season (and to also do the extended hike someday! I talked to her calmly and told her everything was going to be ok. Then, I shouted for the other folks to walk smoothly and quickly ahead. Theyre leftovers from the Mayhew Lodge, a classic inn with colorful history. No matter how long a hike you take here, youll enjoy it best if you come at a time when the trail is least crowded. | Guy Schmickle, Ponderosa pines are among the old-timers in Arizona their eminence is measured in centuries, not, Populous tremuloides. Fortunately, its public, and its the last set of man-made structures youll see. Difficulty: Easy. *-* I feel like I could spend ages in Colorado/Utah/Arizona and still not explore it all! Situated along a river, it features plentiful shade, several creek crossings and enough bubbling brook sounds to soothe the soul. (I need to check out more places in Phoenix/Scottsdale next time!) We hike this trail several times during the year. Depending on the time of year you might find snow, autumn leaves, spring wildflowers, or plenty of places to wade, sun, and picnic. The hike took us about 5.5 hours, with frequent stops, to get to the narrow canyon, the furthest we could go not walking in the water. Airport View Trail and Vortex. *-* TRAILHEAD: 89A, Sedona DIFFICULTY: Easy DISTANCE: 3 MILES (6 MILES RT) APPROX. Sedona Hiking and Outdoor Exploration With its diverse selection of hiking trails, Sedona, Arizona is a mecca for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. There are a number of reasons why West Fork is the most popular trail in the Coconino National Forest. To this point, the trail has been well marked and easy to follow. All images and content are our own and may not be used without express permission. #deathvalley #deathva, I miss autumn on the east coast but fall in Napa i, Looking for a nice flat trail to walk/run on and/o, Mount Diablo Challenge? I hadnt been hiking in several months so you can imagine my bliss when, finally, I hiked a little over a mile into West Fork, found my favorite large rock, took off my shoes, and settled down for a nap in the mid-afternoon sun. Bear Mountain Trail. Dogs: Yes, on a leash. The combination inspired the federal government to designate Oak Creek Canyons first 6 miles, including this trail, a Research Natural Area in 1931. That we would eventually be rewarded for our rigorous trek with a glorious view As we trudged on, and on, and on our 4-hours-drive-to-get-there weary legs were wearing out. Copying and downloading images from this site is strictly prohibited. They are not maintained. There are about 13 different stream crossings during this hike (can be done over stepping stones and logs, but be careful as it may be slippery) though! West Fork trail is the perfect place for that. There isn't much to be seen that hasn't already been experienced and appreciated on the first half of the trail. Kristen recently postedWhat Makes Madison, Wisconsin So Special? Elevation Gain: 2,000 Feet . Before the bridge, there are also some scenic ledges to take photos. Thats impressive. Eventually the pathway ends and you will be forced to hike in the stream bed as you continue into the Secret Mountain/Red Rocks Wilderness. Thursday 8AM . Trailhead GPS: N 3459.434', W 11144.587' Hike the West Fork Trail and/or visit Slide Rock State Park. Directions from Flagstaff: Drive south 17.5 miles south from Flagstaff or north 9.5 miles from Sedona to about halfway between milepost 385 and 384. Farrah recently postedHow To Prepare For a Cross Country Road Trip. We didnt hike West Fork Trail but will next time. Still winter conditions so not much greenery. However, it was absolutely needed in order to document this hike. Please note that by using these links, I may get a small discount from the affiliated store at no extra cost to you! Red rock canyons, flowing water, gorgeous scenery and a gentle trail combine to make this an all-time favorite that you will want to return to again and again. Copyright JNfinity Films. But for us as onlookers, it wasn't much to look at. How awesome to feel the creek rushing around your ankles, or while lying on the flat rock bottom of the creek, flowing through your hair. As for the trail itself, its an easy stroll, but you do have to cross the stream in a number of places. In English, theyre known as quaking aspens , The Rim, Raymond Carlson wrote in the April 1966 issue of Arizona Highways, is scenery, history. Vehicle Requirements: None We walked to the point where you have to get in the water and the canyon walls are about 40 feet apart. 2. I really love Sedonawould love to go back again someday! Weve never been hiking before. OMG! I counted 100 people on our trip back in. Type: Out and back. The trail is an easy stroll, but you have to cross the stream in a number of places. Elevation: 5,316 to 5,565 feet West Fork Trail located on Hwy 89A around mile marker 384 just pass Slide Rock. Sedona is one of my favorite hiking destinations in general, but I think Ive found one of my favorite trails ever in the West Fork Trail. On our way back we realized that everything worth seeing on the West Fork Trail is quite literally RIGHT at the beginning of the trail. The Village of Oak Creek is located a short drive south of Sedona on Highway 179. this was so fun and beautiful. Earlier this spring, we took three: West Fork Trail in Oak Creek Canyon. We made a day of this trail, many places to rest and take in the breathtaking views and surrounding formations. Very thankful for this wonderful recommendation and we will be back in the fall to see the trees change colors. Permit required? West Fork Trailhead 10251 N State Rte 89A, Sedona, AZ 86336 . document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Welcome to Fairyburger! Parking on road requires a treacherous walk! And we still had a mile left to the end. *Music credit from Uppbeat (free for Creators! Local tip: Arrive early, as parking is very limited and fills up fast! Duration: ~3 hours. Absolutely stunning! Thats their Latin name. Another wonderful aspect about doing these hikes would be stopping by the Hike Houses Energy Cafe, the staff is wonderful, especially the ones who have an overwhelming resemblance to Woody Harrelson. If you dont trust your footing, grab a dead branch and use it as a walking stick for balance. For them, the creek continues for 14 miles to the other end of the canyon. We didnt bring sandals so we went barefoot once we reached the end of the trail so we could hike the canyon a little further. It looks like such a good mix of keeping cool in the shade and seeing some cool scenery and rock faces. Difficulty: Challenging. Also the cookies are delicious. The trail is hard to find, but if you look to your left, youll see where it climbs up the canyon wall and away from the water before dropping back down again about 10 minutes later. At long last, the doe turned into the forest, grazing peacefully as she wandered up the hillside. The major challenge is hiking through the creek, sometimes 100 yards at a time, where the rock walls close in. I began to talk to her as she approached me, and not knowing what else to do, offered her some sprouts off my sandwich. my favorite part of the trail was the creeks that we walked on when we got to the end of the trail there was this beatifull creek and I swam in it to cool of. Come grow with us! We parked about 200 meters north of the parking lot by the road. I love hiking in Sedona! If you are looking for a family hike in Sedona, West Fork Oak Creek Trail #108 is a beautiful trail that you can take with families. West Fork Oak Creek Details. I loved there hiking stuff I wish I could get some of those things. They did so and were fifty feet down the trail before the deer popped her head up, looked around and began to bound after them. Because it's really not worth it. Family Physician Instead of looking down at incredible valley views one needs to look up and enjoy the spectacular canyon formations along the trail. Main pros: Very easy hike (mostly), scenic views and even a Subway/Narrows type hike in the end. What Makes Madison, Wisconsin So Special? West Fork is one of Sedonas most popular hiking trails. Just a little farther and the trail descends to the official end where youll join other hikers in admiring a narrow slot canyon. Difficulty: Easy HIKING SUNSETS SWIMMING ATTRACTIONS SCENIC DRIVES, DINING LODGING SHOPPING ADVENTURE MUSIC, BODY & SOUL VISITOR INFO HISTORY DISCLAIMER, HIKES SUNSETS SWIMMING ATTRACTIONS SCENIC DRIVES, DINING LODGING SHOPPING ADVENTURE MUSIC BODY & SOUL VISITOR INFO HISTORY DISCLAIMER. Beating the Crowd to Devil's Bridge in Sedona. Dancer I am 18 years old, and I was accompanied by my family. The trailhead for the west fork oak creek hike is located roughly 10miles outside of Sedona proper on Route 89A along an absolutely beautiful scenic byway. This trail is that good. As a matter of fact, youll probably find a new reason to be here every time you visit. I loved this trail so much that I want to do it again next year. Highly recommend this trail! The state of Arizona gave us our own license plate, and we'd like you to take us for a ride. Special Consideration: The U.S. Forest Service requires a fee of $11 per vehicle (up to five people) in the Call of the Canyon Picnic Site. Length: When you subscribe to our angel list you'll receive my latest news on events, products, programs, & materials I believes may be of interest, as well as our FREE Weekly Messages from Ann & the Angels. You can unsubscribe at any time. Breathe deeply as if you can inhale all the way down into your spine. Overall it was fun, easy, and had spectacular views! Distance: 7.2 miles (out + back) Curious, I opened my eyes and rolled over, but saw no one. Amazing views of rock formations. Come grow with us! This was before the days of digital and I could have kicked myself for not bringing more film! Beyond this point, the canyon is narrower and overgrown with vegetation. It's shady and quiet and it is a much different experience than the other hikes on this list. Autumn is a great time to see vibrant . Parking: Lot available ($10 pass required*) *The $10 pass can be used to get you into a few other places, including Allen's Bend/Grasshopper Point + Red Rock Crossing Trail! Our 5 year old did this hike without any struggles, shoes will get wet though! Thanks for sharing so many photos too, It was definitely a fun one to explore! Time Required: 3-4 hours. There is a wide range of beauty to discover: red rocks, forest like surroundings, beautiful streams, butterflies, and so much more! Mornings can be very cold but within a few hours youll be in short sleeves. Although the West Fork Trail is rated as easy, it does include several creek crossings that require a little agility and a willingness to get your feet wet. Its up there as one of my favorites! In the spring you may be lucky to catch a few stands of old lilacs blossoming. #Sedona #VisitAZ #VisitSedona, Allens Bend/Grasshopper Point + Red Rock Crossing Trail, Emerald Lake Trail in Rocky Mountain National Park, Rim Rock to Uplands to Oak Flat Loop Trail, Contemplative Trail to Sand Canyon Trail Loop, Climbing the Manitou Incline and the Barr Trail, Snowshoeing on Vancouvers Local Mountains. Get up lady, the little boy shouted at me, Theres a mad deer chasing us! You can imagine my thoughts at this point. West Fork Trail #108 Oak Creek. *-*)! When I first started hiking this trail in 1989 the bridge wasnt there. Youll know some of them once youve strolled beside the pleasant little stream that ripples along the canyon floor and looked up, way up, at the dizzying cliffs that tower above it. . The farther you go, the more beautiful the views become. If you're a medical student and/or interested in Family Medicine, check out FMStudent (a resource for 3rd + 4th-year medical students)! Reviews and Ratings of West Fork Trail hiking trail in Sedona with data, photos, and video commentary. Even though the trail is shaded, it can get hot in the afternoon, so bring plenty of water. fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs); The creek will tempt you to wade, soak, or swim so dress appropriately. So please hike Sedona, help others, and rate a trail today! Directions: From Sedona, go north on State Route 89A for 9.5 miles to the Call of the Canyon Picnic Site. That's impressive. A 3.3 mile path weaves back and forth across the creek, through the forest, and deep into the West Fork of Sedona's beautiful Oak Creek Canyon. She certainly looked upset but not harmful. *The $10 pass can be used to get you into a few other places, including Allens Bend/Grasshopper Point + Red Rock Crossing Trail! $149.95. We turned around earlier than we would have if we we had sandals. The landscapes look stunning and I love the photos :), Thank you! The west fork trail is very nice and an easy hike into some great scenery. Some parts very easy. Elevation gain: 820 ft. to enhance the experience stop by the hike house and grab some oatmeal cookies from Mike! At this point, I couldnt resist whipping out my camera and snapping these pictures! Just before you get there, youll pass an old settlement that includes remnants of fireplaces, stone floors and a cliff house. West Fork Trail is on the north side of Sedona, Arizona. A 3.3 mile path weaves back and forth across the creek, through the forest, and deep into the West Fork of Sedonas beautiful Oak Creek Canyon. Elevation gain/loss: 100 feet Difficulty: Easy She seemed to calm down. Copyright 2022 Arizona Department of Transportation, State of Arizona. A bit cool in the shade so a light sweater/sweatshirt/or long sleeve shirt is recommended for those who tend to cool easily. Turn left onto 179 and follow it past the Village of Oak Creek to the Sedona (Burger King) Y. At the end of the trail, well . Rating: 4 out of 5 for the first part, 5 out of 5 if you do the add on. Cathedral Rock is one of the best moderate hikes in Sedona. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Farrah @ fairyburger, with appropriate and specific direction to the original content. This hike is busiest in the summer and on weekends. Difficulty: Easy; Distance: 7.2 miles round trip; Elevation Gain: 820 feet; Trail Guide: Click Here; West Fork Oak Creek trail in Sedona. It is a perfect hiking trail and wedding location in all seasons. There, in front of me, was the mad deer, while behind me stood the women and the kids. It can be mildly confusing, but if you choose the trail closest to the creek, youll be OK. A few minutes after the sharp turn, youll come to an area where a rockfall occurred, and just beyond that, the canyon opens up a little. I always end up spending so much time in Phoenix or Scottsdale, need to get out to Sedona! That part of our country is really beautiful. we went in may and it was super lush with tons of wildflowers. Our takeaway, and advice to you, is that West Fork Trail is one to be seen. Approximate time to hike: ~3 hours. This is one adventure I certainly will never forget! In the summer this is a magical journey as long as you go slow and watch your footing on the slippery rocks that line the creek bottom. This easy trail meanders along Oak Creek. The other couple and I decided wed better help since by this time the kids were throwing sticks, the women were shouting and the deer was really closing in on them. <3! . Theres even a humorous finale to this story! However, you might see some backpackers who will keep on trekking. I began making deer sounds and sending her energy. If you arrive and the parking lot is full, Dad can drop off the family at the entrance and then park just north of the trail and walk down. It was only when we finally arrived that we realized - the end kinda sucked. You can view more Sedona related images here. I go to West Fork whenever Im in need a refill. GREAT SEDONA HIKES West Fork Trail. Location: Sedona, Arizona. Take a moment. In the summer I like to bring shoes that can get wet since the temptation to walk in the creek is overwhelmingly strong! Information: Red Rock Ranger District, 928-282-4119 or fs.usda.gov/coconino, Arizona Highways' award-winning photography and travel journalism, as well as its commitment to discovering the state's treasures, has celebrated the beauty and splendor of Arizona since 1925. One of the most highly-acclaimed trails in Sedona, Arizona (and there are a lot of them) is West Fork Trail. Thirteen creek crossings made it a challenge to traverse after getting caught in a thunderstorm. Yes, Ive heard, she said. We had a 2 day layover in Phoenix when al flights east were cancelled because of Hurricane Irene. Great article! ):https://uppbeat.io/t/pecan-pie. Situated along a river, it features plentiful shade, several creek crossings and enough bubbling brook sounds to soothe the soul. I sat up calmly as they told me about the wild deer that had been baring its teeth, waving its hooves ,and chasing them. Wednesday, December 7th, 2022 . Sedona, AZ. The trailhead is on the west side of the highway down a paved lane that leads behind a few creek side houses. This is a Summer dream! A dry bag might be a good idea to pack along for camera and other electronics if you get adventurous near the end of the trail when you can walk through water about waist high to continue your exploration! Private Red Rock Panoramic Jeep Tour of Sedona. Get ready to huff and puff along this challenging trek to the summit of Bear Mountain. Adventure Tours. Red Rock Pass: Required. Special Consideration: The U.S. Forest Service requires a fee of $11 per vehicle (up to five people) in the Call of the Canyon Picnic Site. We left Las Vegas early with the ambitious goal of arriving to the trailhead at roughly 10:30am. Ruggedly beautiful this time of year, it is in stark contrast to the usually shallow and gentle stream that youll find the rest of the year. West Fork Trail #108 Oak Creek Fast Facts. Sometimes in late winter or early spring, after the snow melts up north, the runoff renders the creek so high and the current so powerful that it becomes impassable. Like most trails offer, I assumed that we were hiking towards a view at the end. Thousands of ferns begin to burst from forest floor and unfurl their summery fronds, and a profusion of wildflowers appear everywhere. There are steppingstones or logs in most places, but there are no guarantees of keeping dry. it was my first time to hike and it was amazing. The thinking was, on a Sunday morning, when people typically roll out of bed a little slower, we'd beat the crowds and find a parking spot. We decided to hike some trails we normally would probably never see. West Fork Trail is Sedona's best easy hike. Difficulty: Rating: 3.5/5. Bring your camera, water, and wear layers. In our sons words:Mikes white chocolate cookies are the bomb! . This scenic path is a fan favorite with locals and out-of-towners, so the parking lot will fill up fast during peak seasons. Join our mailing list, enjoy our online programs, or browse a variety of books & products designed to help you stay tuned in and turned on! Difficulty: Easy. Despite only being 5 miles long, the hike to the summit of Bear . Stop to read the signs. The West Fork Trail is one of the best hikes in Sedona if you want some shade. }(document, "script", "aweber-wjs-7fi4fi6l7")); Please note: The material on these pages is for information and entertainment purposes only. Parking: West Fork #108 Oak Creek Trailhead - Cost is $11/vehicle. *-* If this were private property today, you couldnt put a price on it. This climb has stunning vistas, and you can also sense the power of a strong vortex. We went in February so the trail was icy in several places, but we had micro-spikes and were able to walk like normal people. Directions: From Phoenix, take I-17 north to Hwy 179 (exit 298). There are a number of reasons why West Fork is one of the most popular trails on the Coconino National Forest. The ecosystem is extraordinary, which is why people from around the world flock to this trail. This hike is absolutely astounding. if (d.getElementById(id)) return; Ive wanted, Just realized its been quiteeee some time since, Had the most wonderful time off in the wilderness, Back in the desert!!! By subscribing you agree that you have read & agree to the terms in our Privacy Policy. That is with stops for lunch and walking in the creek. The park ranger started laughing. I didnt quite know what to think. And such a spiritual place. Bringing a stick and wearing waterproof hiking shoes would be helpful for crossing the streams. A few birds still sing. There For us it wasnt just 3hr round trip. Your trail feedback and ratings are an important resource for fellow hikers and provide a personal account of your trail experience from which others may learn. Your feet will thank you! Ive been here in March, wearing shorts, only to discover that there was eight inches of snow and slush on the trail while the new apple blossoms were in bloom and the flowers thrust green shoots upward to catch the precious rays of sunlight. In addition to West Fork, the fee area also serves as a starting point for the Thomas Point Trail and the Call of the Canyon Nature Trail. I backpacked in Sedona and found it just so beautiful. Farrah recently postedHow To Prepare For a Cross Country Road Trip. We were glad that we packed sandwiches and other snacks to keep up the energy for the entire day. If you do, start early. A little over one mile into the trail you can rest in a natural jacuzzi spot during the summer, or walk farther and take a dip in one of the deeper areas of the creek. Moss grows making a patchwork of red rock and green, and in the winter freezes you may be lucky enough to see gigantic icicles forming here. We Left at around 11am and came back around 5pm. it was nice winding back and forth across the stream while all the time being surrounded by towering canyon walls. Im 12 years old and I really like how easy this hike was. Tuesday 8AM - 6PM. If youre looking for isolation, this hike wont deliver. Exhale. var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0]; WEST FORK TRAIL STATISTICS: Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult (due to the length) Length: 7.2 miles Type of Hike: Out and Back Time: 3 to 4 hours Elevation: Just over 800 ft Location: Call of the Canyon Day Use Area Trailhead: West Fork Trailhead When to Hike: The Sedona trail is best to hike all year round. West Fork Trail . We didnt go all the way but were not disappointed. Pure bliss! Lush greenery lines the path and if, like me, youre allergic to poison oak, best to avoid wandering in the woods, as it abounds in this verdant canyon. The trail starts out very sandy, and would be harder to run through or walk faster with the thicker sand, but then turns into more of a rocky trail, which was easier to hike faster. I am not sure how I feel about this yet. All rights reserved. Duration: ~3 hours You'll enjoy a much more pleasant experience, gain several hours back of your life to spend elsewhere, and much fresher legs for all the OTHER hikes you're going to want to do in Sedona. Any trails beyond the slot canyon are simply there due to wildlife and intrepid hikers. Many river crossings make this hike a bit more exciting than the rest. Hiking this trail is akin to walking in Manhattan for the first time. Welcome to Travel Tuesday! I guess the language of calm, loving energy is universal. But if you're in the mood for a thigh-burning, sweat-inducing climb under the searing Arizona sun, then make your way to the trailhead of the Bear Mountain Trail. NOTE: The following summary information is to help with hike selection and is not intended to be used for hiking the trail.For your safety and enjoyment, please obtain a copy of Sedona Hiking Guide which is available here.. Summary: A wonderful, picturesque hike along a flowing creek Challenge Level: Moderate West Fork is the most popular hiking trail in the Coconino National Forest and possibly the most scenic in Arizona. The path is wide black dirt that takes you past ancient ponderosa pines (smell their bark it reminds you of vanilla! Just beyond that, a decent-sized pool marks the end of the trail. West Fork Oak Creek Trail in Sedona - Honest Review for Families with Kids. I am from Florida and was awestruck by the canyon walls. The area's strikingly beautiful landscape is etched with trails of varying difficulty that allow hikers to experience the red rock vistas and magnetic sense of peace for which Sedona is internationally known. On weekends and holidays, especially in the spring and fall, literally hundreds of people will be in your way. Close-to-sunrise kinda early. Beautiful views all around and mostly shaded. We will do this one again in the summer and see how far we can push the hike upstream. No, but you do need to pay $11 to enter the parking area. A woman came running down the trail, breathless to tell me that they were being chased by a mad dear and that some earth lady spoke the deers language and calmed it down! Earth lady?! Look ahead to the red rock canyon walls that rise sharply, hundreds of feet above the creek. Why they stood behind me, Ill never know! Tis is a excellent hike especially while trying to get out of the heat. Although we strive to keep it up to date, we make no guarantees. The hike begins at the Call of the Canyon Picnic Site, which is conveniently located just off State Route 89A in Oak Creek Canyon. This Was a very easy Trail! The trail can be insanely crowded on beautiful weekends, so either come early, late, or on a weekday. West Fork is . First ever panic attac, Alpine lakes are where I doubt my reality the most, Weve hiked Mount Diablo previously on foot and, Have you ever been to #SedonaAZ? A visit to this trail usually takes 2-3 hours round trip. There were several other groups on the trail but it did not seem crowded. The cumulative trail ratings for the West Fork Trail submitted by fellow hikers is located above with the Trail Data. However, in the same way you dont avoid the Grand Canyon just because 6 million people a year visit the park, you dont want to leave the West Fork of Oak Creek off your list. It was busy but was nice because you still rarely ran into anybody. 22. Wear good boots and you will be fine. After the late winter floods, the creek settles back into a babbling brook, easily crossable. After that, they show up regularly. The West Fork trail is an excellent hike for the family. This is a super popular hike, so try coming out as early as you can so you can actually snag a parking spot! Sedona | Arizona Driving directions Trekking up Oak Creek's west fork offers one of the best hiking experiences in Sedona, an area already known as a hiker's paradise. The calm water of the West Fork of Oak Creek reflects fall foliage. Looks like a beautiful trail. Spectacular views looking up at the canyon walls. The damp rocks take on a deep red hue, and if the nights are freezing there can be icicles several feet tall hanging off the cliff sides. West Fork is one of Sedona's most popular hiking trails. One of the most underrated areas in Sedona is Munds Wilderness. As you make your way through the canyon, youll notice some alternate paths from time to time. Never far from the creek you will be soothed by the sound of gently flowing water. This was definitely one of my favorite hikes (+ a super welcomed cooler hike after being in the desert for weeks! Or at least reconsider hiking the entire trail. Glad we hiked it early, six people was there, on the way back, more people coming to the trail, I loved this trail so much. You have to walk in the water through the river at the end of the three miles if you want to go further. :P )! As alluring as the water is, its the red rocks thatll take your breath away. The route continues along this same basic path water, woods and natural wonder for about 45 minutes, at which point the trail veers 90 degrees to the left. TRAIL STATS As you trek along this nearly level, easy trail you are accompanied by the beauty and serenity of shimmering Oak . Like Canyonlands or Zion but easier to get to. There are a tonnn over there! Rescue Volunteer Village of Oak Creek. Youll be craning your neck a lot. Once you've strolled beside the pleasant little stream that ripples along the canyon floor and looked up, way up, at the dizzying cliffs that tower above it, you will fall in love with it, too. Much to our dismay, even at that hour, there was a line of cars backed up to the main road waiting to get in. Even if youre not an experienced hiker you should have little difficulty. Yelp Elite 09-22. The bridge is much easier! West Fork Trail. Apple blossoms, lilacs, violets, and many more species that I cant even name delight you with pinks, purples, yellows, reds, violets, and oranges. Distance: Two miles (You can go farther if you like.) I havent been to this part of the states yet, but from your photos it looks like there are some great hiking trails to hit up while youre there! West Fork of Oak Creek in December with Friends.Beautiful hike in every season! Treat this natural treasure with the care it deserves and youll have plenty of reason to come back and see it again and again. When you do come, remember to take special care and leave this beautiful place better than you found it. . Please read our, Copyright 2012 Ann Albers | All Rights Reserved | Site design by Ann Albers. This trail was beyond spectacular. Monday 8AM - 6PM. Its breathtaking beauty and vibrant energy invigorate me. I loved the nature in the trail it had such cool things. Permanent link to this article: https://www.fairyburger.com/west-fork-trail/. As you breathe, ask the angels to surround you and fill you with their love. Your email address will not be published. Bear Mountain Trail. Youll never see this again, I reassured him. I looove the way the light shines though the leaves on those trees. The first of the many crossings occurs within a few minutes after leaving the trailhead. The maintained path is mostly flat and undulating as it passes through a stunning landscape in Coconino National Forest. Trail Length: 7.2 miles out-and-back Elevation Gain: 1,053 ft Difficulty: Moderate Trail Features: Red rock formations, river, forest, canyon Trailhead Location: Call of the Canyon Trailhead, 3459'26.3N 11144'34.8W Cost: $11 (parking) If you don't want to hike through blazing heat, head for the West . Is this normal? the young guy asked. amazing scenery on this hike. hut with a forest ranger on duty most of the time. Length: 6-9 miles in and out (if you do the add on, it'll be 9 miles). They did so and as the deer sniffed the young woman, I snapped a few more pictures. West Fork Trail is an easy to moderately difficult hike. . This is absolutely perfect for summer as its nice and cool and often shaded by the surrounding trees + canyon walls. Sedona has an embarrassment of rich hiking trails. West Fork of Oak Creek is one of the most popular trails in the Flagstaff/Sedona area, but you can beat the crowds by hiking the tranquil upper narrows of this lush river canyon. To this day I dont know why she was chasing the women and children, but obviously she wasnt a threat to anyone who remained calm. She sniffed the sprouts in my hand, turned away and began slurping water out of the creek. Also, it was cool to be able to see many places where the canyon walls had been carved, into what looked like a curling wave, by the creek waters. this trail was a great experience for me and my family because we have never saw something so beautiful like that before. Surprised to see wild roses and grape vines. At 1:30 when we returned, plenty of parking spots so go early or in the afternoon. This makes an exciting overnighter or a grueling day hike. Love when there is lots of water. You wont regret it. I wont do this trail again. Parking was full at 10:30 so we had to wait 30-40 min. Restroom: Yes. West Fork offers a kaleidoscope of natural wonders that change with the seasons. A new day has arrivedwhile you still must hike a portion of Broken Arrow to get to Hogs, the trail departs from the [Read More], Hiking Preparedness + Energy Supply + Apparel & Gear, View the West Fork Trail Slideshow and Commentary. Elevation Gain: 700 feet. Elevation Gain: 500 feet. Usually, that involves negotiating a few strategically placed stepping stones or taking a couple of steps in shallow water. I love hiking there tooso many trails I still gotta check out! Farrah recently postedUltimate Coffee Date: February 2021, You always find such gorgeous trails! The drive from Sedona to the trailhead is curves through towering red rock sand stone formations and crosses a deep scenic gorge. Then walked up the canyon. Also can get VERY crowded later in the day. She even brushed up next to me one time, and as we turned a corner in the trail she startled a young couple coming our way. The trail is marked for the first three miles; however, many hikers continue beyond that. 10. KNW Located north Highway 89A, Oak Creek Canyon is a forested, shady canyon and it looks and feels a lot different than Sedona. (Congratulationsthis is our youngest hiker (age 8) to rate a Sedona Red Rock Trail!!!). The trailhead begins at the far end of the parking lot. Of course you know not to litter, but picking flowers and autumn leaves can cause just as unsightly a scar. js.src = "//forms.aweber.com/form/06/1670714606.js"; The trail itself is pretty easy! USGS Maps: Dutton Hill, Wilson Mountain, Munds Park There are a number of reasons why West Fork is the most popular on the Coconino National Forest. js = d.createElement(s); js.id = id; Stunning photos! You can also view a short video here of a fall hike on the West Fork trail. A mad deer? Apple trees at beginning were in full bloom. when we went to the hiking house we met a family that owns one of the shops. Dogs Allowed: Yes (on a leash) Id love to go back to explore some more! I have been here in the summer with friends, on a lazy Sunday when we picked blackberries near the onset of the trail then ignored the path and hiked through the water. Also, many flowers in bloom. This trail is relatively flat and you can move pretty swiftly, which is good because all the oustanding views and cool streams make you want to keep going to see whats around the next bend. Being experienced hikers and having hiked superb locations it definitely amazed us. The colors are different than the rest of my lenses. Majestic views will soon take your breath away. Farrah recently postedUltimate Coffee Date: February 2021. A Red Rock Pass is required for parking in most locations. We took our time getting to the end and spent some time at slide rock which was a great relaxing area and good swim area. There are a number of reasons why West Fork is the most popular trail on the Coconino National Forest. Because of this, it's rated among the Top 10 Trails in the United States. It was a wonderful experience, that heightened my time spent in Sedona. We saw some wild life, including a black widow along the brush at the entrance of the trail. We took a few photos and pressed on, knowing we had a long hike ahead of us. I had barely drifted off into a dreamy sleep when my quiet was interrupted by the sounds of people yelling and thrashing through the forest. Populated by maples, oaks, ponderosa pines, and a variety of native flora and fauna, it is a nature lover's dream. As soon as you make it down to the creek, you're instantly wowed by the beauty of the canyon walls and walk-on-log-only creek crossings. Length: 4.9 miles. Too many wash crossings with standing water. Turn right at the Y onto North 89A. And don't go beyond halfway. Arizona Highways 2039 W Lewis Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85009 602.712.2200. This is an easy hike, that offers jaw-dropping views the entire venture. It wasnt long before the pounding of hooves sounded on the trail! After the bridge youll take a sandy stroll amidst ferns and through an abandoned grove of apple, pear, and plum trees. Don't worry, the water usually doesn't rise too high, but . Difficulty: Easy Agreed! If you dont already have a pass that includes this site, youll be charged an entry fee which is very reasonable considering all the amenities and the huge amount of trail maintainence that the forest service provides each year. This is the main cast of characters in my life, and if you're feeling lost and confused, start here! In its heyday, the lodge was a favorite getaway of movie stars, politicians and writers, including the Earl of Halifax, President Herbert Hoover, Clark Gable, Susan Hayward, Cesar Romero and Jimmy Stewart. Very easy and scenic hike. There is an option to continue into the Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness! The 2014 Oak Creek Canyon fire has decimated alot of the natural beauty of the hiking sites but it is still beautiful. If you have kids younger than 4, I would not . But despite all that, I'm here to tell you why you should consider skipping it. Great for photographers. The river pebbles and slick rocks are not too kind to bare feet. Josy A recently postedSnowshoeing on Vancouvers Local Mountains, Me toooo! So can short-cutting or rock throwing. A beautiful bridge spans a deep chasm over the creek, but if you cant wait for water, you can go down a number of side trails and put your feet in the creek. We wore light hiking boots and would reccomend strapping some water shoes bag. Thanks for the great tips! The side rock swimming hole was lots of fun for me. Shaded by tall trees and increasingly sky-high cliffs, the West Fork hiking Trail is gorgeous year round, making it a Sedona area favorite. The Hike House. Description. Description. Trailhead Address: 3459'26.5N 11144'34.6W. In fact, youll be taking the nature trail for a quarter-mile out to the trailhead for West Fork. This hike was everything we were looking for, we wanted water and we got it the whole way, we wanted shade and 90% was shaded which made it nice for a hot day, we wanted creek crossings and there were plenty of those and we also wanted some beautiful views which it definitely did not lack. If you want to do this, be prepared for an overnight trip! The road goes right, but you turn left into a large parking area with restrooms and a Parks & Rec. Known as one of Sedona's most challenging trails, you'll face over 1,800ft in elevation gain as you hike your way to the top of Bear Mountain. It was lots of fun. Looks like an incredible trip! :P Later on, when youre looking through your photos, youll notice that many of them were taken with the camera pointed upward. Wednesday 8AM - 6PM. Bees begin to hum and the trees start to bud. I suggested they hike past the deer slowly, taking care not to startle her. Time: About 1 hour, longer if you meander, take photos or play in the water. 2020 fairyburger. It offers sights and sounds that are unique to even the Sedona area that are worth seeing. History from this trail was very interesting. Coming back we made the hike in an hour and 15 mins as we were trying to beat a storm rolling in. This is a state park so parking or entrance fee is collected, $10 per car. It is a staple along the West Fork Trail, which is said to be one of Sedona's most pawpular hiking trails. Thanks again to Greghis book and pointers were very helpful! We need to switch! Winter is usually dry, somewhat barren, and incredibly peaceful in the forest. Even if you go nowhere else, at least make sure you hike the #WestForkTrail! It's a drive that you're going to want to enjoy. Trailhead Address: 345926.5N 1114434.6W For everyone else, its time to turn back and enjoy the return on one of Arizonas best hikes. Please click on the images to see full size high resolution images that are available for sale. The trees are starting to change color and we stopped often to absorb the beauty and tranquility along the creek. We got back to the parking lot at 1:45 pm. Notify me of follow-up comments by email. Stream crossing were easy up to 1.5-2 miles. But go early. How to get to West Fork of Oak Creek Trail #108? There are several reasons this is the most popular trail in the Coconino National Forest: the towering cliffs of Coconino Sandstone, the Douglas firs and box elders and bigtooth maples, the perennial stream, the wild grapes and asters and lupines, the mule deer and Aberts squirrels, and the list goes on. Water levels permitting, youll rock hop across the creek many times. We hiked the trail in winter time, I could say kinda moderate that time bcoz crossing the creek, the rocks and logs slippery and its coldIm sure during summer or spring much easier. We only had time to hike one trail in Sedona during our layover and Im glad we picked this one. This was a very easy trail with wonderful views of canyon walls on both sides. This is also a great area for birding. . *-*. Farrah recently postedHow To Prepare For a Cross Country Road Trip, Looks like an awesome trail, I love hiking in places like this. Mornings and weekdays are best, better yet if theyre in the off-season. Excellent hiking trail. We would later regret that. This is the turnaround point for day hikers. Reproduction in part or whole without written permission from the publisher is prohibited. I stopped at the ranger hut to let the park ranger know that there was a deer who had been upset by some hikers but appeared to be perfectly reasonable if people remained calm. In the Summer, West Fork is a hikers paradise. Minutes later, three kids and two women came rushing down the trail. Best to go early to find a parking spot. There are picnic tables, toilets and trash cans available for use. It was calm, cool and majestic, even with quite a few people around. The trail is quite soft in a lot of places so wear good supportive shoes that can get wet when crossing the streams! https://www.fairyburger.com/west-fork-trail/, My heart is so, so happy! Here you must either stop and turn around, or go hiking through the water as the red rock walls of the canyon curve overhead. How fortunate I feel to know a trail so intimately. Length: 6.75 miles round-trip (from parking area) Difficulty: Easy Elevation: 5,316 to 5,565 feet Trailhead GPS: N 3459.434', W 11144.587' Directions: From Sedona, go north on State Route 89A for 9.5 miles to the Call of the Canyon Picnic Site. Pretty but flat and there are many more options in the area with little or no traffic. The images on this website are copyrighted. 25 in Hiking. Out of the several trails I have hiked in Sedona, this one is one of my favorites because of the landscape diversity. Horses Allowed: No This area was used as a backdrop for the movie based on Zane Greys novel, Call of the Canyon, in which he describes this very trail. per adult (price varies by group size) Private 4-Hour Sedona Spectacular Journey and Vortex Tour. I was so close I could see every piece of fur on her back, and could have easily touched her. Healthy Living Lifestyle/Food/Travel Blogger Oak Creek's western fork is one of the best hiking trails in Sedona, offering stunning views of the tall canyon walls and trees. Therefore, it's a great outdoor activity for all groups and families! To make a long story short, I ended up hiking three quarters of a mile with a wild deer trotting either just ahead of me or next to me. The West Fork of Oak Creek Trail is located in the Call of the Canyon recreation area and is one of the most popular hikes in the Coconino National Forest (for good reason!). Distance: 6 miles | Difficulty: Easy to moderate | Total Ascent: 535 feet | Time: 3 to 5 hours | Location: West Fork Oak Creek Trailhead. Probably the busiest trail in Sedona. West Fork Trail (6.3mi . In the autumn nearly every photographer in the Southwest descends upon West Fork, and for good reason. How To Prepare For a Cross Country Road Trip, How I Survive/Thrive on $50/Month For Food, How To Make Black Garlic in a Rice or Slow Cooker, Savory Oatmeal with Fried Egg and Sriracha, 10 Things Medical Students Want You To Know. The birds return. Trail Distance: 6.6 miles roundtrip. She calmed down again when I approached. Learn More >. This easy ranking makes it very easy for people of all ages to join in. Things to bring: Wear very comfortable walking or hiking shoes. Located just north of Sedona in Oak Creek Canyon. Perfect access to brook swimming. We could have walked down to the creek, grabbed some shots and headed back to the car for a much more pleasant afternoon. The hike is arguably the best relaxing and zen hike in all of Arizona. Soon youll pass the old stone ruins of Meyhews Lodge. By now the frightened people behind me had also settled down, and were staring at both me and the deer in disbelief! 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