[2024 Coconino County ] Travel Guide for Oak Creek Canyon (Updated Dec)

Located just under 3 hours north of Phoenix, Arizona, you’ll find the famous red rocks of Sedona. There are so many amazing hikes to do in Sedona, but you won’t want to miss Soldier Pass Trail, Bell Rock, Devil’s Bridge, and Cathedral Rock. Be sure to bring plenty of water in a reusable water bottle, proper hiking shoes, and sunscreen, and NEVER leave behind any trash or damage the wildlife by going off-trail. For food, I recommend brunch or lunch at SaltRock Restaurant at the Amara Hotel, having a creekside meal at the L’Auberge patio, and trying everything possible on the menu at Pump House Station. To park at Sedona’s various hiking trails, you’ll need to purchase a Red Rock Pass. The Pass is $5 per day, $15 per week, or $20 per year and can be purchased at a visitor’s center, trailheads, or many businesses and hotels around town. #awesomepic

A Day of Canyon Climbing in Arizona

#northamericatrip Arizona’s rugged canyons offer the ultimate playground for adventure seekers, and a day spent climbing them is a thrilling way to experience the state’s stunning landscapes up close. From sandstone walls to volcanic rock, Arizona’s diverse geology provides challenges and beauty in equal measure. Kick off your day at Oak Creek Canyon near Sedona. Renowned for its vibrant red and orange cliffs, this spot offers beginner-friendly climbing routes like The Overlook Crag, where climbers can scale moderate pitches with views of the lush canyon below. The mix of climbing and breathtaking scenery makes it a must-visit. For more experienced climbers, head to Cochise Stronghold in southeastern Arizona. This legendary climbing destination boasts granite domes and vertical walls, perfect for technical climbing and multi-pitch adventures. Routes like What’s My Line? offer exhilarating climbs combined with awe-inspiring views of desert landscapes stretching for miles. Midday, take a break in the shade of canyon walls and refuel while enjoying the stillness of the surroundings. Many of Arizona’s canyons are not just about climbing but also about soaking in the raw beauty of the desert and sky. Wrap up your day with a climb in Paradise Forks, a basalt canyon near Flagstaff. Known for its cracks and stunning views, this spot is ideal for climbers who love technical challenges in a dramatic setting. With a mix of adventure, nature, and adrenaline, canyon climbing in Arizona guarantees an unforgettable day for climbers of all skill levels.

Hiking Through Arizona’s Forests: A Verdant Escape

#northamericatrip When most people think of Arizona, they picture sunbaked deserts and towering cacti. But the state’s forests offer a surprising and refreshing contrast, with lush greenery, towering pines, and cool mountain breezes that beckon hikers seeking serenity and shade. Start your forested adventure in Coconino National Forest near Flagstaff, home to some of the largest ponderosa pine stands in the world. Trails like the Fatman’s Loop and Kachina Trail weave through dense forests, offering breathtaking views of the San Francisco Peaks and surrounding landscapes. The fresh pine scent and chirping birds make every step a sensory delight. Head south to Mogollon Rim, a dramatic escarpment stretching for miles. The General Crook Trail follows the rim’s edge, offering stunning vistas of sprawling forests below. This area is ideal for those looking to combine rugged terrain with tranquil woodland settings. For a unique blend of water and trees, hike the West Fork Trail in Sedona’s Oak Creek Canyon. Shaded by cottonwoods and sycamores, the trail meanders along a creek with occasional water crossings and the rustling of leaves overhead. It’s one of Arizona’s most scenic forest hikes. For a high-altitude escape, explore the White Mountains in eastern Arizona. The Big Lake Trails wind through alpine meadows and dense aspen groves, offering a serene retreat from the hustle of everyday life. Arizona’s forests are an unexpected haven for hikers, offering shade, tranquility, and a refreshing perspective on the state’s natural diversity.

Chasing Waterfalls in Oak Creek Canyon, Sedona

#northamericatrip A day spent chasing waterfalls in Oak Creek Canyon, Sedona, is an adventure filled with serene beauty, cascading waters, and stunning red rock landscapes. This enchanting canyon offers a unique combination of rugged wilderness and peaceful creekside oases. Start your waterfall quest at Slide Rock State Park, a favorite destination for its natural rock waterslides and picturesque cascades. While the main attraction is sliding down the smooth rocks into the refreshing pools below, the small waterfalls created by Oak Creek’s flow add an extra touch of charm to this popular spot. Next, venture to the West Fork Trail, where the creek meanders through the canyon, creating several small falls and rippling pools along the way. While this trail is more about the journey than a single towering cascade, its shaded paths and tranquil water crossings make it an essential part of the experience. Keep an eye out for hidden waterfalls along the route, where the creek tumbles over rocks in quiet, secluded spots. For a more adventurous stop, visit the lesser-known Red Rock Crossing, where Oak Creek flows beneath Cathedral Rock. While not a traditional waterfall, the creek’s gentle cascades over rocky beds create a mesmerizing flow, perfect for photography and quiet reflection. As the day winds down, find a peaceful spot by the creek to relax, soaking in the soothing sounds of flowing water and the canyon’s natural beauty. Chasing waterfalls in Oak Creek Canyon is more than an adventure—it’s a refreshing escape into Sedona’s stunning landscapes.

A Day Exploring Oak Creek Canyon in Sedona

#northamericatrip Oak Creek Canyon, often called the “Grand Canyon’s Little Cousin,” is a stunning red rock haven in Sedona, Arizona, perfect for a day of outdoor exploration and breathtaking scenery. This picturesque canyon, carved by the winding Oak Creek, is a paradise for hikers, photographers, and nature lovers. Start your day early with a drive along State Route 89A, a scenic byway that meanders through the canyon, offering spectacular views of towering red rock cliffs and lush forests. Stop at the Oak Creek Vista for a panoramic overlook and a chance to pick up handmade crafts from local Native American artisans. For a hike, head to the West Fork Trail, one of the most popular and accessible trails in the area. This easy-to-moderate hike follows the creek through a shady forest, crossing the water multiple times over stepping stones and small bridges. The blend of red rock walls, flowing water, and vibrant greenery creates a peaceful, storybook-like atmosphere. After your hike, cool off at Slide Rock State Park, a natural waterpark where the creek forms smooth, slippery chutes perfect for sliding and splashing. It’s a fun spot for families and anyone looking to beat the Arizona heat. As the day winds down, find a cozy spot along the creek for a picnic and watch as the canyon walls glow in the golden light of sunset. Oak Creek Canyon is a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility, making it a must-visit destination in Sedona.

Seeing these red rocks in real life is so incredible. These formations are a must see if you visit Arizona