Hike the West Fork Trail

Favorite Spot

3 miles to the end of the trail, but you can find even more beautiful canyon scenery if you continue past the marked trail. Easy going hike with not much elevation gain/loss. Popular for families and dogs. Also, a very clean trail! I have never seen any litter along the way.

Stunning Falls Colors

This year wasn't the best example but during a great season the fall colors here are unmatched in the Southwest. The vibrant reds and yellows along the canyon and cliff walls are stunning and make this hike worth doing more than once.

Wonderful Woodland Walk

This walk was so beautiful. As it is autumn/fall the colours on the trees were magnificent, the deep reds and yellows gave the perfect photo opportunity. I took the fish eye lens for my camera and the outcome was really unique. This is a stunning hike and the crossing of the river was very fun and challenging in some places! Overall a wonderful walk through a stunning woodland.

Easy/Beautiful Hike!

Easy and beautiful hike, you cross the river multiple times as you hike the trail which makes it a lot of fun! The scenery is absolutely stunning!! The smells of the woods are soul cleansing. Can be pretty busy on the trail but everybody is courteous and accommodating. Will be doing this hike again soon!

Red Rock District!

The West Fork Trail is one of the most beautiful hikes in Arizona. It also has some interesting history with the Mayhew Lodge. One of the most enjoyable times to hike this trail is during the fall when leaves are changing. While the temps are cooler you also have less foot traffic. If staying in town, check out the Butterfly Garden Inn for a one-of-a-kind experience!

Favorite trail in Arizona

Missing the West Fork Trail if you're passing through Sedona should be considered a crime. It's an easy hike, beautiful all the way through, and if Oak Creek isn't running low you have a handful of swimming holes. Definitely hike beyond the established trail, which extends another 14 miles. There is an overnight camping option available halfway through the trail. Ask the ranger about a permit. You can hike it any time of year. The winter snow turns this trail into a winter wonderland, especially when Oak Creek freezes over. It creates a whole different experience from the summer.

A Hiking Must!

Put this trail on your bucket list. It's an easy trail great for kids and dogs with nice shade for summer hiking. A few creek crossings and delicious apples in the fall

Amazing Sites!

If you are in the Sedona area, then you should definitely try and visit the west fork. It is generally touristy at times, but if you can get there when there is minimal traffic on the trail, the views are amazing. You will have to pay to park directly at the trailhead, if not you can park in other areas along the roadside and walk. The creek flows through and you will have to cross it a few times, but it is generally pretty low with rocks to help you cross. The trail is also pet friendly, so bring your friends!

My All Time Fav

This is my all time favorite hike. I grew up just a few miles from the trailhead and hiked it often with my family. The fire in 2014 was heartbreaking but happily left the trail and canyon mostly unaffected. As it is my favorite hike in Az, I make sure to visit it once a year, in spite of living hours away now. If you have the ability to make it here in the fall, it can be the most beautiful, color filled hike in all Az. Highly recommended! Oh and start early before the masses show up and the parking lot gets full. I usually arrive about 6 and am 3rd or 4th to arrive.