West Fork of Oak Creek Trail

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Commonly Backpacked · Fall Colors · Historical Significance · River/Creek · Swimming · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

It's easy to see why this is one of the most popular trails in the forest. It can be used year-round: the cool water is refreshing in the summer, changing leaves add vibrancy to the beautiful canyon.

Keep a lookout for Poison Ivy along the creek.

There are a number of reasons why West Fork is such a popular trail in the Coconino National Forest. A pleasant little stream runs along the canyon floor and high cliffs rise above it. The trail is an easy stroll, but you have to cross the creek in a number of places. This usually involves negotiating a few stepping stones or taking some steps in shallow water. It will be difficult to keep your feet dry.

The trail is marked for the first three miles; however, many runners continue beyond that. Eventually, the official trail ends and if you intend to continue hiking or backpacking, you'll continue up the creek as you cross into the Red Rock/Secret Mountain Wilderness. 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 only advised for backpacking.

No matter how long a run you plan to take here, you'll enjoy it best if you come at a time when the trail is least crowded. Mornings and weekdays are best, and better yet if they're in the off-season.

The original homesteading family planted apple trees, which still bear fruit. Wild blackberries are also found along the trail and creek.

At the beginning of the trail are the remains of an old homestead and an old lodge that burned down. This was the Mayhew Lodge. Visit the Sedona Heritage Museum to learn more.