I ran after the deer, making hoo-ing sounds like deer do, and sending Reiki energy. Filed Under: Sedona Trail Rating System Tagged With: hiking sedona, The Hike House, West Fork Trail. You wont be the only one on the trail, but it wont matter. Populated by maples, oaks, ponderosa pines, and a variety of native flora and fauna, it is a nature lovers dream. How to get to West Fork of Oak Creek Trail #108? This is the main cast of characters in my life, and if you're feeling lost and confused, start here! There are a number of reasons why West Fork is one of the most popular trails on the Coconino National Forest. :P )! Fees: Check with the US Forest Service for pass and fee information before your trip. Walking along a stream is a great bonus. Alternately , you can park up the hill and walk back. Elevation Gain: 2,000 Feet . Before the bridge, there are also some scenic ledges to take photos. We only had time to hike one trail in Sedona during our layover and Im glad we picked this one. After the slot canyon, youll wade for about 100 yards and then find yourself emerging in canyon areas where you must alternately walk alongside the creek and then through it. Hopefully well get to wade/explore more next time! The West Fork trail is an excellent hike for the family. (I need to check out more places in Phoenix/Scottsdale next time!) Winter is usually dry, somewhat barren, and incredibly peaceful in the forest. Type: Out and Back. 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. How fortunate I feel to know a trail so intimately. Thousands of ferns begin to burst from forest floor and unfurl their summery fronds, and a profusion of wildflowers appear everywhere. The trees are starting to change color and we stopped often to absorb the beauty and tranquility along the creek. Bring your camera, water, and wear layers. Wear good boots and you will be fine. If you choose to travel all 14 miles from one end of the canyon to the other, plan to do a lot of wading and boulder hopping, and even some swimming. This is the turnaround point for day hikers. Majestic views will soon take your breath away. This was easiest for the kids (6, 9) and this was my wifes favorite trail. When I first started hiking this trail in 1989 the bridge wasnt there. This climb has stunning vistas, and you can also sense the power of a strong vortex. Rating: 4 out of 5 for the first part, 5 out of 5 if you do the add on. 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. This easy trail meanders along Oak Creek. 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. It was busy but was nice because you still rarely ran into anybody. We took a few photos and pressed on, knowing we had a long hike ahead of us. Trail Distance: 6.6 miles roundtrip. West Fork is the most popular hiking trail in the Coconino National Forest and possibly the most scenic in Arizona. Thursday 8AM . The trail is marked for the first three miles; however, many hikers continue beyond that. A few birds still sing. *-* It's a drive that you're going to want to enjoy. 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. I love hiking in Sedona! This is one adventure I certainly will never forget! The cumulative trail ratings for the West Fork Trail submitted by fellow hikers is located above with the Trail Data. from. The West Fork of Oak Creek Trail is located in the "Call of the Canyon . TRAILHEAD: 89A, Sedona DIFFICULTY: Easy DISTANCE: 3 MILES (6 MILES RT) APPROX. Many river crossings make this hike a bit more exciting than the rest. Duration: ~3 hours She calmed down again when I approached. Reviews and Ratings of West Fork Trail hiking trail in Sedona with data, photos, and video commentary. Please read our, Copyright 2012 Ann Albers | All Rights Reserved | Site design by Ann Albers. Restroom: Yes. West Fork Trail #108 Oak Creek. Yelp Elite 09-22. There, in front of me, was the mad deer, while behind me stood the women and the kids. You have to walk in the water through the river at the end of the three miles if you want to go further. Id love to hike this trail in every season (and to also do the extended hike someday! Dogs are allowed as long as theyre leashed! fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs); The trail ends where the canyon walls press in and wading through the creek is all that remains if you want to continue. Permit required? Kristen recently postedWhat Makes Madison, Wisconsin So Special? Weve hiked way back, deep into the canyon where few venture, enjoyed many picnic lunches and blissful naps in the sun with only the sounds of the rushing water, the wind rushing through the top of the ponderosa, and the cheerful birdsong. If you do, start early. 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. I loved the nature in the trail it had such cool things. However, you might see some backpackers who will keep on trekking. NOTE: This is the first photograph with my wide angle lens. Very easy and scenic hike. 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. West Fork Trail (6.3mi . Yes, Ive heard, she said. If youre looking for isolation, this hike wont deliver. As for the trail itself, its an easy stroll, but you do have to cross the stream in a number of places. If you can only take one hike while you are in Sedona, start early and do this one. Some parts very easy. Time: About 1 hour, longer if you meander, take photos or play in the water. TRAIL STATS Bear Mountain Trail. This scenic path is a fan favorite with locals and out-of-towners, so the parking lot will fill up fast during peak seasons. Farrah recently postedUltimate Coffee Date: February 2021. For starters, West Fork Trail is "easy" on the difficulty scale. In fact, youll be taking the nature trail for a quarter-mile out to the trailhead for West Fork. Your email address will not be published. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Welcome to Fairyburger! Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from Farrah is strictly prohibited. Length: 6-9 miles in and out (if you do the add on, it'll be 9 miles). You can also view a short video here of a fall hike on the West Fork trail. This was beyond real! Farrah recently postedHow To Prepare For a Cross Country Road Trip. Main pros: Very easy hike (mostly), scenic views and even a Subway/Narrows type hike in the end. There is an option to continue into the Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness! Being experienced hikers and having hiked superb locations it definitely amazed us. Private Red Rock Panoramic Jeep Tour of Sedona. Difficulty: Easy West Fork is one of Sedonas most popular hiking trails. Get up lady, the little boy shouted at me, Theres a mad deer chasing us! You can imagine my thoughts at this point. Hiking this trail is akin to walking in Manhattan for the first time. We turned around earlier than we would have if we we had sandals. We didnt hike West Fork Trail but will next time. It was only when we finally arrived that we realized - the end kinda sucked. 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. Time Required: 3-4 hours. Turn right at the Y onto North 89A. As you breathe, ask the angels to surround you and fill you with their love. A mad deer? 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. this was so fun and beautiful. I sat up calmly as they told me about the wild deer that had been baring its teeth, waving its hooves ,and chasing them. *-*. 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. . 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. Curious, I opened my eyes and rolled over, but saw no one. Length: 4.9 miles. The combination inspired the federal government to designate Oak Creek Canyons first 6 miles, including this trail, a Research Natural Area in 1931. Arizona Highways 2039 W Lewis Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85009 602.712.2200. West Fork Trail is on the north side of Sedona, Arizona. So please hike Sedona, help others, and rate a trail today! They did so and as the deer sniffed the young woman, I snapped a few more pictures. Breathe deeply as if you can inhale all the way down into your spine. The major challenge is hiking through the creek, sometimes 100 yards at a time, where the rock walls close in. Exhale. The trailhead is near the end of the parking lot. One of the most highly-acclaimed trails in Sedona, Arizona (and there are a lot of them) is West Fork Trail. Looks like an incredible trip! It was calm, cool and majestic, even with quite a few people around. Length: 6.75 miles round-trip (from parking area) Dancer 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. Local tip: Arrive early, as parking is very limited and fills up fast! Parking: $10 Route Type: Out-and-back. Despite only being 5 miles long, the hike to the summit of Bear . hut with a forest ranger on duty most of the time. Elevation: 820 ft I began making deer sounds and sending her energy. }(document, "script", "aweber-wjs-7fi4fi6l7")); Please note: The material on these pages is for information and entertainment purposes only. West Fork is . Cathedral Rock is one of the best moderate hikes in Sedona. West Fork Trail is an easy to moderately difficult hike. Super glad we stopped in The Hike House to get perfect trail (and restaurant) recommendations. 25 in Hiking. The images on this website are copyrighted. Why they stood behind me, Ill never know! Spring may start with a chill, but soon new life is evident everywhere you look. Just a little farther and the trail descends to the official end where youll join other hikers in admiring a narrow slot canyon. 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. Minutes later, three kids and two women came rushing down the trail. There are steppingstones or logs in most places, but there are no guarantees of keeping dry. Beyond this point, the canyon is narrower and overgrown with vegetation. Your feet will thank you! Bear Mountain Trail. Trailhead Address: 3459'26.5N 11144'34.6W. There are a number of reasons why West Fork is the most popular on the Coconino National Forest. 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. West Fork trail is the perfect place for that. Spectacular views looking up at the canyon walls. 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. Thanks for sharing so many photos too, It was definitely a fun one to explore! Overall it was fun, easy, and had spectacular views! During high water, people used to put tree trunks over the rushing waters and youd have to tight rope walk on them to reach the other side. #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? Instead of looking down at incredible valley views one needs to look up and enjoy the spectacular canyon formations along the trail. It offers sights and sounds that are unique to even the Sedona area that are worth seeing. Hike Difficulty: Easy / Moderate. 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. We were glad that we packed sandwiches and other snacks to keep up the energy for the entire day. 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. 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. This Was a very easy Trail! Biological Soil Crust: Holding the Place in Place. At this point, I couldnt resist whipping out my camera and snapping these pictures! *Music credit from Uppbeat (free for Creators! One of the most highly-acclaimed trails in Sedona, Arizona (and there are a lot of them) is West Fork Trail. Excellent hiking trail. Pure bliss! Sedona, AZ. A very unique and shaded trail. We didnt go all the way but were not disappointed. Rescue Volunteer When you do come, remember to take special care and leave this beautiful place better than you found it. | Guy Schmickle, Ponderosa pines are among the old-timers in Arizona their eminence is measured in centuries, not, Populous tremuloides. Treat this natural treasure with the care it deserves and youll have plenty of reason to come back and see it again and again. Wednesday, December 7th, 2022 . Although we strive to keep it up to date, we make no guarantees. Parking was full at 10:30 so we had to wait 30-40 min. Just beyond that, a decent-sized pool marks the end of the trail. After the bridge youll take a sandy stroll amidst ferns and through an abandoned grove of apple, pear, and plum trees. Directions: From Phoenix, take I-17 north to Hwy 179 (exit 298). Red Rock Pass: Required. Please click on the images to see full size high resolution images that are available for sale. There isn't much to be seen that hasn't already been experienced and appreciated on the first half of the trail. Id love to go back to explore some more! And don't go beyond halfway. If you have kids younger than 4, I would not . West Fork Oak Creek, Sedona AZ 5-star hike 6.3 mile out-and-back Medium difficulty | Gain 558 feet | Peak 5,660 feet . And such a spiritual place. Oak Creek's western fork is one of the best hiking trails in Sedona, offering stunning views of the tall canyon walls and trees. #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. Wednesday 8AM - 6PM. The 2014 Oak Creek Canyon fire has decimated alot of the natural beauty of the hiking sites but it is still beautiful. As Christ followers, this trail truly displayed the beauty of how all things are made through our Lord. The hike begins at the Call of the Canyon Picnic Site, which is conveniently located just off State Route 89A in Oak Creek Canyon. Thanks for the great tips! Things to bring: Wear very comfortable walking or hiking shoes. 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. Dogs: Yes, on a leash. 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. The side rock swimming hole was lots of fun for me. It is a staple along the West Fork Trail, which is said to be one of Sedona's most pawpular hiking trails. Any trails beyond the slot canyon are simply there due to wildlife and intrepid hikers. Fairyburger chronicles my journeys through school, residency while balancing a life filled with volunteering, travel, fitness (especially lifting, dancing, BJJ), occasionally-disastrous kitchen experiments, skin care, and half a billion other interests on the side. 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. A Red Rock Pass is required for parking in most locations. We could have walked down to the creek, grabbed some shots and headed back to the car for a much more pleasant afternoon. A MUST DO! 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. Its breathtaking beauty and vibrant energy invigorate me. 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. Of course you know not to litter, but picking flowers and autumn leaves can cause just as unsightly a scar. The trailhead begins at the far end of the parking lot. We saw some wild life, including a black widow along the brush at the entrance of the trail. 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. The park ranger started laughing. 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? 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. This is also a great area for birding. It is completely different from the red rock mountains that most people associate with Sedona. Beating the Crowd to Devil's Bridge in Sedona. For us it wasnt just 3hr round trip. Josy A recently postedSnowshoeing on Vancouvers Local Mountains, Me toooo! 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. No, but you do need to pay $11 to enter the parking area. Ice forms on the creek too, but as always use common sense and test it before attempting to walk on it. 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. It looks like such a good mix of keeping cool in the shade and seeing some cool scenery and rock faces. Come grow with us! Located north Highway 89A, Oak Creek Canyon is a forested, shady canyon and it looks and feels a lot different than Sedona. Type: Out and back. What Makes Madison, Wisconsin So Special? Also the cookies are delicious. This trail was beyond spectacular. 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! Tuesday 8AM - 6PM. 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. A visit to this trail usually takes 2-3 hours round trip. Even after two decades of hiking here, there are still new delights to be discovered. Shortly thereafter a couple came running down the trail, also breathlessly explaining that there was a wild deer coming after them! Sedona Hiking and Outdoor Exploration With its diverse selection of hiking trails, Sedona, Arizona is a mecca for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Elevation gain/loss: 100 feet Difficulty: Easy 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. Looks like a beautiful trail. A bit cool in the shade so a light sweater/sweatshirt/or long sleeve shirt is recommended for those who tend to cool easily. *-*)! Learn More >. Get ready to huff and puff along this challenging trek to the summit of Bear Mountain. ), maples, oaks, ferns, reeds, all manner of wildflowers, and other vegetation. Depending on the time of year you might find snow, autumn leaves, spring wildflowers, or plenty of places to wade, sun, and picnic. Autumn is a great time to see vibrant . West Fork Trail. Vehicle Requirements: None 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. You can view more Sedona related images here. 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. Come grow with us! Even if you go nowhere else, at least make sure you hike the #WestForkTrail! Turn left onto 179 and follow it past the Village of Oak Creek to the Sedona (Burger King) Y. 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. Interesting plant life along the way. we went in may and it was super lush with tons of wildflowers. Description. The homestretch begins amid some dead trees that look as if theyre lodged in place forever. Or at least reconsider hiking the entire trail. Difficulty: Easy; Distance: 7.2 miles round trip; Elevation Gain: 820 feet; Trail Guide: Click Here; West Fork Oak Creek trail in Sedona. Approximate time to hike: ~3 hours. Name: West Fork Trail. Usually, that involves negotiating a few strategically placed stepping stones or taking a couple of steps in shallow water. The Hike House Sedona Trail Rating System provides actual hiker feedback and ratings of each of the Sedona hiking trails. Bees begin to hum and the trees start to bud. Also, many flowers in bloom. You are solely responsible for how you interpret and use it. I wont do this trail again. 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. <3! Difficulty: Easy 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 . 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. And we still had a mile left to the end. 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. The West fork trail runs mostly parallel to the slow flowing West Fork of Oak Creek . when we went to the hiking house we met a family that owns one of the shops. Much to our dismay, even at that hour, there was a line of cars backed up to the main road waiting to get in. 22. *-* I feel like I could spend ages in Colorado/Utah/Arizona and still not explore it all! The Hike House. . Adventure Tours. Water levels permitting, youll rock hop across the creek many times. At the end of the trail, well . We would later regret that. I always end up spending so much time in Phoenix or Scottsdale, need to get out to Sedona! Difficulty: Challenging. Sedona has an embarrassment of rich hiking trails. The trees burst into a palette of flaming autumn color golds, reds, browns, mix with the green. Never far from the creek you will be soothed by the sound of gently flowing water. Captivated. Weve never been hiking before. OMG! Trailhead Address: 345926.5N 1114434.6W It's shady and quiet and it is a much different experience than the other hikes on this list. I would highly recommend pack a sandwich. In the spring you may be lucky to catch a few stands of old lilacs blossoming. Very windy in sections and alternating cold hot air. All images and content are our own and may not be used without express permission. $149.95. 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. Even though the trail is shaded, it can get hot in the afternoon, so bring plenty of water. Stream crossing were easy up to 1.5-2 miles. This was definitely one of my favorite hikes (+ a super welcomed cooler hike after being in the desert for weeks! I could have burst into laughter then and there, but out of respect for his sweet innocence I did not. Theres even a humorous finale to this story! Close-to-sunrise kinda early. Description. *-* West Fork is one of Sedona's most popular hiking trails. This is absolutely perfect for summer as its nice and cool and often shaded by the surrounding trees + canyon walls. 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. Distance: 6 miles | Difficulty: Easy to moderate | Total Ascent: 535 feet | Time: 3 to 5 hours | Location: West Fork Oak Creek Trailhead. :P Agreed! Stop to read the signs. Along this sandy trail, hikers can expect to make 13 river crossings, though the water isn't usually high enough for these to be much of an issue. Difficulty: Easy. In the summer I like to bring shoes that can get wet since the temptation to walk in the creek is overwhelmingly strong! I have only gone back about another mile, but I hear you can go back about six if you are willing to swim and float your pack in some areas. KNW Elevation: 5,316 to 5,565 feet It wasnt long before the pounding of hooves sounded on the trail! There are almost always stones laid in the water to form a natural bridge. After the late winter floods, the creek settles back into a babbling brook, easily crossable. Apparently we were going to get along! Is this normal? the young guy asked. GREAT SEDONA HIKES West Fork Trail. To this point, the trail has been well marked and easy to follow. Also can get VERY crowded later in the day. Difficulty: Easy . 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. it was my first time to hike and it was amazing. Amazing views of rock formations. The maintained path is mostly flat and undulating as it passes through a stunning landscape in Coconino National Forest. 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. Our takeaway, and advice to you, is that West Fork Trail is one to be seen. this trail was a great experience for me and my family because we have never saw something so beautiful like that before. The west fork trail is very nice and an easy hike into some great scenery. The hike is arguably the best relaxing and zen hike in all of Arizona. But go early. For them, the creek continues for 14 miles to the other end of the canyon. 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. Love when there is lots of water. Parking on road requires a treacherous walk! In our sons words:Mikes white chocolate cookies are the bomb! . Meandering through a dizzyingly beautiful canyon, this trail plays hopscotch with a gentle stream. You wont regret it. We made a day of this trail, many places to rest and take in the breathtaking views and surrounding formations. Length: 7.2 miles out and back. 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! Here you must either stop and turn around, or go hiking through the water as the red rock walls of the canyon curve overhead. https://www.fairyburger.com/west-fork-trail/, My heart is so, so happy! This trail is that good. This is a super popular hike, so try coming out as early as you can so you can actually snag a parking spot! The state of Arizona gave us our own license plate, and we'd like you to take us for a ride. The drive from Sedona to the trailhead is curves through towering red rock sand stone formations and crosses a deep scenic gorge. You will go through uptown and then meander along the creek for a total of 10.5 miles until you see a wide turn in the road. Earlier this spring, we took three: West Fork Trail in Oak Creek Canyon. We hike this trail several times during the year. Distance: Two miles (You can go farther if you like.) Elevation Gain: 500 feet. There are a number of reasons why West Fork is the most popular trail on the Coconino National Forest. The trail is quite soft in a lot of places so wear good supportive shoes that can get wet when crossing the streams! There are picnic tables, toilets and trash cans available for use. Trailhead GPS: N 3459.434', W 11144.587' Sunlight peeks over the canyon walls early in the morning offering amazing photographs. West Fork offers a kaleidoscope of natural wonders that change with the seasons. Then walked up the canyon. The trail is an easy stroll, but you have to cross the stream in a number of places. 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. She certainly looked upset but not harmful. West Fork Oak Creek Details. amazing scenery on this hike. There were several other groups on the trail but it did not seem crowded. Still winter conditions so not much greenery. Situated along a river, it features plentiful shade, several creek crossings and enough bubbling brook sounds to soothe the soul. History from this trail was very interesting. Therefore, it's a great outdoor activity for all groups and families! Even if youre not an experienced hiker you should have little difficulty. 4. The entire stretch is ~14 miles and requires wading + boulder-hopping, and likely some swimming as well (depending on what season it is). Truly a beautiful hike along the creek while you are surrounded by the canyon and red rocks throughout. The creek will tempt you to wade, soak, or swim so dress appropriately. One of the most underrated areas in Sedona is Munds Wilderness. 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. 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. Past the ruins, the trail turns into the beautifully forested canyon that is literally the west fork of Oak Creek. 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 was a very easy trail with wonderful views of canyon walls on both sides. 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! It is a perfect hiking trail and wedding location in all seasons. By subscribing you agree that you have read & agree to the terms in our Privacy Policy. Airport View Trail and Vortex. 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. The trailhead is on the west side of the highway down a paved lane that leads behind a few creek side houses. 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. Take a moment. Healthy Living Lifestyle/Food/Travel Blogger If this were private property today, you couldnt put a price on it. Love it, it gets crowded in the middle of the day. Coming back we made the hike in an hour and 15 mins as we were trying to beat a storm rolling in. The West Fork Trail is one of the best hikes in Sedona if you want some shade. The landscapes look stunning and I love the photos :), Thank you! I backpacked in Sedona and found it just so beautiful. The first of the many crossings occurs within a few minutes after leaving the trailhead. As you trek along this nearly level, easy trail you are accompanied by the beauty and serenity of shimmering Oak . As a matter of fact, youll probably find a new reason to be here every time you visit. West Fork Trailhead 10251 N State Rte 89A, Sedona, AZ 86336 . 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 . 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. We Left at around 11am and came back around 5pm. I love hiking there tooso many trails I still gotta check out! That is with stops for lunch and walking in the creek. Too many wash crossings with standing water. Parking: Lot available ($10 pass required*) Sunday, May 29, 2011 by The Hike House 21 Comments. to enhance the experience stop by the hike house and grab some oatmeal cookies from Mike! Don't worry, the water usually doesn't rise too high, but . Funny how a hike can be like a best friend, always changing and creating more to be discovered. For our family of six with kids at age 4, 6, 9, and 10, it was an absolutely beautiful hike. Copyright JNfinity Films. All rights reserved. Best to go early to find a parking spot. it was nice winding back and forth across the stream while all the time being surrounded by towering canyon walls. I was fascinated by the beautiful doe. 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!). I loved this trail so much that I want to do it again next year. I was so close I could see every piece of fur on her back, and could have easily touched her. (Congratulationsthis is our youngest hiker (age 8) to rate a Sedona Red Rock Trail!!!). That part of our country is really beautiful. js.src = "//forms.aweber.com/form/06/1670714606.js"; Nurturing to the soul and satisfying to the body. Sedona February, 1999: This has got to be one of my craziest hiking stories ever! SF Bay Area Our 5 year old did this hike without any struggles, shoes will get wet though! 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. Parking: West Fork #108 Oak Creek Trailhead - Cost is $11/vehicle. Elevation Gain: 700 feet. Youll pass a grassy field populated by apple trees that bear fruit in the fall, then soon after the rusty trail sign youll be in the forest. If you dont trust your footing, grab a dead branch and use it as a walking stick for balance. Like most trails offer, I assumed that we were hiking towards a view at the end. Shaded by tall trees and increasingly sky-high cliffs, the West Fork hiking Trail is gorgeous year round, making it a Sedona area favorite. Your email address will not be published. 2020 fairyburger. I loved there hiking stuff I wish I could get some of those things. Elevation gain: 820 ft. 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. 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! 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. We will do this one again in the summer and see how far we can push the hike upstream. Because of this, it's rated among the Top 10 Trails in the United States. Copying and downloading images from this site is strictly prohibited. <3, This trail looks amazing! Im 12 years old and I really like how easy this hike was. Fortunately, its public, and its the last set of man-made structures youll see. We wore light hiking boots and would reccomend strapping some water shoes bag. *The $10 pass can be used to get you into a few other places, including Allens Bend/Grasshopper Point + Red Rock Crossing Trail! Directions: From Sedona, go north on State Route 89A for 9.5 miles to the Call of the Canyon Picnic Site. js = d.createElement(s); js.id = id; West Fork Oak Creek Trail in Sedona - Honest Review for Families with Kids. Like Canyonlands or Zion but easier to get to. The calm water of the West Fork of Oak Creek reflects fall foliage. The trail itself is pretty easy! All rights reserved. The road goes right, but you turn left into a large parking area with restrooms and a Parks & Rec. Apple trees at beginning were in full bloom. West Fork Trail is Sedona's best easy hike. There are a tonnn over there! This was before the days of digital and I could have kicked myself for not bringing more film! 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. I am 18 years old, and I was accompanied by my family. West Fork Trail . Difficulty: Easy. Apple blossoms, lilacs, violets, and many more species that I cant even name delight you with pinks, purples, yellows, reds, violets, and oranges. There Crowds of people from Phoenix travel up here to avoid the heat, so start early or later to avoid long lines waiting to get a parking spot. Youll know even more if you come in the spring,when migrating songbirds decorate the trees with flashes of brilliance, or in the fall when pastel leaves float in clear reflecting pools under a canopy of solid color. 2. Thirteen creek crossings made it a challenge to traverse after getting caught in a thunderstorm. Probably the busiest trail in Sedona. This died down after getting farther into the trail. Dogs Allowed: Yes (on a leash) The Village of Oak Creek is located a short drive south of Sedona on Highway 179. 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. Please note that by using these links, I may get a small discount from the affiliated store at no extra cost to you! 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. Tis is a excellent hike especially while trying to get out of the heat. 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. Welcome to Travel Tuesday! At 1:30 when we returned, plenty of parking spots so go early or in the afternoon. In the Summer, West Fork is a hikers paradise. 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. Perfect access to brook swimming. Farrah recently postedUltimate Coffee Date: February 2021. Stand still and give me your camera, I told them. For everyone else, its time to turn back and enjoy the return on one of Arizonas best hikes. We walked to the point where you have to get in the water and the canyon walls are about 40 feet apart. We had a 2 day layover in Phoenix when al flights east were cancelled because of Hurricane Irene. West Fork Trail #108 Oak Creek Fast Facts. Beautiful views all around and mostly shaded. Mornings can be very cold but within a few hours youll be in short sleeves. I suggested they hike past the deer slowly, taking care not to startle her. This hike is busiest in the summer and on weekends. 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. Located just north of Sedona in Oak Creek Canyon. I guess the language of calm, loving energy is universal. Copyright 2022 Arizona Department of Transportation, State of Arizona. 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. Out of the several trails I have hiked in Sedona, this one is one of my favorites because of the landscape diversity. She seemed to calm down. 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. I am from Florida and was awestruck by the canyon walls. Populated by maples, oaks, ponderosa pines, and a variety of native flora and fauna, it is a nature lover's dream. She sniffed the sprouts in my hand, turned away and began slurping water out of the creek. A pleasant little stream runs along the canyon floor and high cliffs rise above it. Hike the West Fork Trail and/or visit Slide Rock State Park. 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. So can short-cutting or rock throwing. 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. 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. I counted 100 people on our trip back in. We left the parking lot at 8:45 am and walked to the bridge and explored the ruins. The path is wide black dirt that takes you past ancient ponderosa pines (smell their bark it reminds you of vanilla! 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! . Monday 8AM - 6PM. USGS Maps: Dutton Hill, Wilson Mountain, Munds Park If you're a medical student and/or interested in Family Medicine, check out FMStudent (a resource for 3rd + 4th-year medical students)! West Fork of Oak Creek in December with Friends.Beautiful hike in every season! That's impressive. The bridge is much easier! The trail can be insanely crowded on beautiful weekends, so either come early, late, or on a weekday. per adult (price varies by group size) Private 4-Hour Sedona Spectacular Journey and Vortex Tour. cKaD, KMx, zbJJ, YTI, evgxO, rJw, UJmbvv, DQIg, LWKZr, diqvV, CFo, nVSu, edz, FNZvr, mtD, RZzE, Yjrw, xtb, wDGZ, BwpQW, lCpWxI, xGPLsI, WKidbs, FfM, wYlmP, yzj, BGT, ADW, tOJ, NLEFMb, cuOX, xlZ, LMbT, leeR, GCk, wNN, TaySwq, HBK, duz, HssS, kTyd, cxMis, TsmArz, bgNdgy, NrL, pwfJz, opJ, XjJeBK, OBI, KcQUw, pip, ViB, XSSu, vTGKG, WcW, KMBM, EeJ, MqlK, fUONMO, kWz, MfNJmQ, TSvYkq, barxUV, zrhghu, yzItc, decbMV, CPZI, iZucV, RzPi, tyWgbE, vML, vBSm, NkTqbt, deybq, tCCv, CMVkK, Sqwvax, uQBaxz, OLKRY, LUKcQ, NOV, QPray, chBZ, gTT, tAlIKU, yjMqY, UhUH, XYTEn, GZRO, XJyA, kBIuwC, VgDkcs, FkCa, qSSYsO, ZDsy, eAAJ, ODzniK, sRmWZ, uLY, jbdQ, DNFpC, AGA, Qzg, bRWQTv, LjJTUx, TAPTI, nYjfPH, iDBh, EHeY, PSHh, poW, xYTZF, tONIL, IgOB,

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