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Weekend Warriors Arizona Hiking Guide
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If a leisurely hike down a perennial stream in Oak Creek canyon appeals to you, this is your hike. This hike is located near Sedona, AZ. From the Sedona area, take HWY 89A towards Flagstaff and up the Oak Creek Canyon. 10 miles from Sedona is the entrance to the West Fork Trailhead parking area (near milepost 384). It will cost you a couple of bucks to park. Be Aware of: $7 to park (as of April 2004). Creek Crossings. 30 yr old Recommendation: Flat and relaxing. This is an easy hike. Elevation change: about 400 ft gradual gain. Distance: 3.0 miles one way. Time: It took us three hours with a 30 minute stop for lunch. Time of year: all year Solitude: You will not find any on this hike. Word of this hike has gotten around, and with the addition of the parking area, it's extremely popular. This is a good hike in the summer months. It's always nice to be able to hike next to a babbling stream. You'll cross the creek several times during this hike, while walking through a lush and tree lined canyon. The rock hopping across the creek is the most challenging part of this hike (not including finding a parking spot). You can continue upstream from the first big pool, but to continue includes lots of wading, swimming, and boulder hopping. In the fall, the leaves changing colors adds a whole new dimension to this hike. Enjoy!
[West Fork of the Oak Creek Canyon]
This hike was completed in April 2004.
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