West Fork Trail
Sedona, Arizona
Details
Distance
6.49 miles
Elevation Gain
1102 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back
Description
Added by wendy wernet
A Beautiful canyon, rich in color. There are Several places to have a picnic on a rock, bask in the sun, or hide in the shade.
This is one of the most beautiful hikes in Sedona, Arizona. It is a fairly easy hike, although it is 6 miles roundtrip. A lot of families come here, and children love to play in the water. There are various stream crossings, but for most of them, you should be able to keep dry.
The canyon walls are majestic and vivid in color, and you'll twist and turn your way through the canyon. Fall would be a great time to go, with the aspen changing color.
If you plan on backpacking, you'll go an additional 1.5 miles downstream, where there is supposedly a campground. It is also possible to continue another 11 miles after the end of the marked 3 mile trail to reach a forest road, but you'll be wading through water and boulder hopping.
Getting there: Take 89A, either south from Flagstaff, or north from Sedona. This is a paid parking spot, and you'll have to be patient, because the parking lot fills up quickly, and it is controlled by a booth attendant. It is worth the wait.
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West Fork Trail Reviews
Lovely hike in October with all of the changing colors! Lots of people but totally worth it. Lots of cars parked in the parking lot so either wait in line until people return from the hike to their cars to gain access to the lot, or park on the side of the highway.
5.0
This is my favorite hike to take Arizona visitors on. The West Fork Trail is absolutely beautiful, and it's very fun to cross back and forth over the creek. Bring a hammock, bring lunch, and bring the family. It's more than a hike; it's a discovery. There are beautiful fall colors that last into the winter, and gorgeous spring flowers that last into the summer. Though it is a popular hike, it's long enough that it's usually not very crowded- especially the farther you go. Something I would note that hasn't been shared: I love hiking this trail in the fall and winter! However, it becomes extremely cold compared to the rest of the canyon. Bring extra warm layers. (And if you're coming from Sedona, stop at the Indian Garden Cafe! It's my favorite restaurant in AZ! Healthy and delicious lunch and desserts with an adventurous atmosphere! They also have food for the go to take along on the hike!)
5.0
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.
5.0
Leave No Trace
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
Nearby
Climbing at Oak Creek Canyon
Hike up Cookstove Trail
Picnic at Banjo Bill
Dispersed Camping in Coconino National Forest (Edge of the World)
Camp at East Pocket (Edge of the World)
Climb Red Wagon at the Oak Creek Canyon Lookout
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