West Fork and Oak Creek

The West Fork trail is one of the most popular in Sedona and it is a trail you will want to visit early in the day, especially during the height of tourist season. If you want the trail all to yourself (or nearly so),  you will not want to wait until the late morning/early afternoon crowd is out and about. If you do arrive later, be prepared to sit in your car and wait to be let into the lot as other cars leave.

The trail is listed as 'moderate' in terms of difficulty but, with very few exceptions, it is a pretty easy hike. You will cross Oak Creek numerous times, so the stone hopping process may be the most difficult for those whose balance is not so great. But, other than that, the hike is pleasant, serene and fairly easy for those of all hiking abilities. 

You will hike in shaded areas along the creek under the watchful eyes of the red rock spires and Navajo Tapestry! You'll pass the remnants of the old Mayhew Lodge (where Clark Gable, Jimmy Stewart and others came to get away from the bright lights of Hollywood). 

Take a brief respite near Oak Creek and enjoy the sounds of the flowing water and feel the breeze on your face!

Wander alongside the creek and under the canopy of the red rock and study the beauty markings and patterns.

Beautiful flowers line the paths. 

Look closely and you'll see a heron sitting on the rocks in the middle of the dry creek bed.

The hike in is 3 miles, if you choose to go all the way, and it is definitely a favorite of locals and tourists alike!  

Bring plenty of water, wear hiking boots or sturdy shoes, bring your camera and a light jacket (even in the warmer weather) or dress in layers during the winter months. 

West Fork is a treat for everyone!

West Fork Trail

The West Fork trail is often listed as a favorite in popular Sedona hiking books. The popularity of the trail is well-deserved and there are numerous reasons for its popularity. Here are few of the reasons:

1.  It is not the most challenging trail in Sedona, so most people can enjoy its beauty.

2.  For much of the hike, you are following the beautiful, serene Oak Creek. 

The creek rambles along, revealing small rapids and smooth waters. You will cross it numerous times (13, to be exact) as you follow the trail, so you'll have the opportunity to really enjoy its beauty.

The Mayhew House

3.  The West Fork trail has some other treasures that may be of interest to those who want to know more about Sedona's history. 

You'll pass the Mayhew House, a dilapidated old structure that was once visited by Clark Gable, Jimmy Stewart and others. 

4.  The trail winds through meadows, Ponderosa Pine and red and white cliffs. 

This beautiful canyon was the inspiration of Zane Grey's 'Call of the Canyon' and, if you take the time to traverse the 3.3 mile hike, you will see why. 





We took this hike on Christmas Day. The cool air and shade of the tree groves and the overhanging cliffs would be a treat during the summer. 




Much of the trail is shaded by trees and cliffs and the recent snowfall made the trails icy and the hike a bit cold, but it was worth the effort. 

The canyon is 12 miles long, but the official hike is a little over 3 miles and, in good weather when the trails are in good shape, it should take you about 90 minutes to get to the end of the trail. 




Because of the icy conditions, and the late hour, we did not complete the hike, but we will certainly do so on another day when the weather is better.