Sedona, Arizona
Experience Fall on the West Fork Trial
Surround yourself with the beauty of fall in Sedona, Arizona. The beautiful red rocks and clear blue skies serves as the perfect backdrop for the vibrant fall foliage in Oak Creek Canyon. You can either stretch you legs on a scenic hike on the West Fork Trail in the Coconino National Forest or take the scenic drive through the canyon to see the breathtaking foliage. The decision is yours, I enjoy doing both. Whatever you decide, make sure to bring your camera for some unbelievable shots!
The three mile hike on the West Fork Trail is fun for everyone in the family. The hike takes you into the Canyon and stays fairly level and near the creek where you feel as if you are painted into the scenery. The azure skies, towering red rocks and fall foliage will leave you in total awe of your surroundings. Keep in mind that while this hike is easy their are place where you will be crossing the stream. There are some places where you will have to get your feet a little wet so wear appropriate clothing and shoes. Beginning at the end of October the fall foliage is amazing and only gets better as the season goes on. Do not be surprised on your hike if you catch a scent of apples from the old orchard nearby. For more information on this hike including parking, access, fees and directions visit the Coconino National Forest – West Fork Oak Creek. Before taking this hike please review our tips below!
Oak Creek Canyon is nestled between Sedona and Flagstaff and also makes for a very beautiful Sunday morning mountain drive coming from either the north or south. For some memorable family fun you can spend the day on either side . Make sure you have your camera on hand and plan a stop at the scenic overlook at the top of the switchbacks.
Tips:
- There will be a three mile marker and it’s not recommended to go past this if you are not an experienced hiker! After the three mile marker there is a steep climb across the wooded hillside that drops down into a stony area mid river. This marks the end of the official path and hiking beyond this point takes a very experienced hiker and is not recommended.
- This is one of the most popular hikes in Arizona and can be extremely busy. I would recommend either going in the early morning or during the week.
If you enjoy the Fall colors of Oak Creek Canyon you will want to check out this very special tour of the Verde Canyon!
Verde Canyon Railroad – Fall Color Tours
The jeweled tones of autumn magnify the geological beauty of the Verde Canyon. The gold, bronze and copper leaves along the route dominate the visual landscape on each of their Fall Color Tours, one rail at a time. It is a season when the wildlife, including deer, elk, javelina and antelope, become more active and visible as the mercury begins its yearly dip.
For those of us originally from back east, the foliage in Oak Creek Canyon and Flagstaff is a real treat. We try to catch it at its peak every year!