Visiting Oak Creek Canyon – Sedona, Arizona

I love to spend time in Oak Creek Canyon/Sedona, Arizona. Few drives match the winding roads through the canyon. More than that, Sedona is a delight. And listening to one of my favorite podcasts not long ago, I discovered how Sedona got its name. That was fun.

About Oak Creek Canyon

The drive is one of the most beautiful drives in the United States. Along the way you see amazing rock formations and beautiful terrain. The 14-mile drive features panoramic canyon views, oak foliage, and evergreen pines. Between Sedona and Flagstaff, this winding road ascends 4,500 feet to the top of the Mogollon Rim.

If you would like to drive downhill, start in Flagstaff. To go uphill, begin in Sedona. No matter which direction you go in, this canyon is stunning. Oak Creek Canyon is one of the “Top 5 Scenic Drives in America,” according to Rand McNally.

The Drive

Before departing from Flagstaff, be sure to stop by the Oak Creek Canyon Vista. Here, you can enjoy the view of the road that awaits you below. Authentic Native American jewelry is sold at this vista between April and November.

Navigating through winding hairpin turns, you will see several overlooks, hiking trails, swimming areas, and picnic spots along the road. When you reach Midgely Bridge, don’t forget to stop for a photo-op; this scenic vista features captivating scenery.

As you continue through Red Rock Country, be sure to make stops at Steam Boat Rock, Courthouse Butte, and Bell Rock, which showcase unique rock formations and jaw-dropping views. To loop back to Flagstaff, turn on to State Route 179. Eventually, you will reach Interstate 17, which will lead back to where you started.

While the Oak Creek Canyon is beautiful any time of year, it is stunning in the fall. The diverse range of trees means that you will see vibrant colors, in hues of red, yellow, and orange, everywhere you look. Not only are the hiking trails slightly less crowded this time of year, but Garland’s Oak Creek Apples are available in late October. Who wouldn’t want fresh apple cider from apples grown right in the canyon?

Things to do in Oak Creek Canyon

Slide Rock State Park

Located at the canyon’s mouth, Slide Rock State Park is a popular summer destination for swimming and natural waterslides. In the early 1900s, this land belonged to Frank Pendley, a homesteader who developed this land into an apple orchard. When his family decided to sell the property in 1982, it eventually became government land (after some years of negotiation).

Today, this famous park is visited by many. Home to an area of slippery creek bottom, running 80 feet long, with a 7% decline from the beginning to end, Slide Rock State Park lives up to its name. The algae growing on the rocks make the area even more slippery. Every year, guests enjoy sliding down these natural water slides and swimming in the creek. However, this area gets busy; try to come on a weekday to avoid the crowds. Besides water activities, the park also has picnicking, fishing, apple picking, and hiking.

Balloon Adventures

Red Rock Balloon Adventures offer exhilarating balloon rides every day of the week. Instead of worrying about driving through winding roads, tour Oak Creek Canyon in a hot air balloon. You can enjoy an hour-long ride beginning at sunrise, allowing you to relish the morning views of Red Rock Country. Gliding through Oak Creek Canyon via hot air balloon, you are guaranteed to witness beautiful wildlife and picturesque views. Upon landing, enjoy a celebratory commemorative toast.

Jeep Tours

Explore Oak Creek Canyon from the comfort of a guided jeep tour. Because the Oak Creek Canyon drive involves only a two-lane highway and several switchbacks, passengers enjoy this area more than the drivers do. With a jeep tour, everyone can enjoy the scenery and breathtaking views this area offers. There is no need to pay attention to navigation or have one foot on the brake. Your tour guide will safely transport you through this area, providing information on the culture, nature, and history.

Hiking

Because of the lush forests and rocky grounds, hiking adventures abound near Oak Creek Canyon in Sedona, Arizona. While there are plenty of trails throughout the drive, the West Fork Trail is one of the most popular. Located in the Coconino National Forest, this hike is suitable for most fitness levels. At 6 miles round trip, you could spend 2-3 hours enjoying the views and river crossings that this shady trail offers.

Another trail near Sedona is AB Young. While this is a short hike, it is very steep. At the end of the trail, you will be rewarded with a lookout point at an elevation of 7,200 feet. Pumphouse Wash, a slightly longer trail at 2.9 miles, provides scenic cascades and pools surrounded by cream-colored Coconino sandstone.

Horseback riding

Touring the Oak Creek Canyon area on horseback is an excellent activity for animal lovers. One- to three-hour horseback trail rides are available at M Diamond Ranch, near Sedona, and Trail Horse Adventures, in Cottonwood, Arizona.

UFO tour

Whether or not you believe in extraterrestrials, Sedona is well-known for UFO sightings. A UFO tour is a great way to learn about the bizarre history and sightings of strange objects in the Sedona sky. Whether or not you actually see a UFO on the tour, you are guaranteed to enjoy Arizona’s gorgeous nighttime sky. Views of the Milky Way, far-off planets, and twinkling stars will leave you feeling in awe of Mother Nature.

Sedona vortex tour

Beyond the awe-inspiring beauty that meets the eye, Sedona is known as a sacred and powerful area, and many believe it is home to several vortexes. A vortex is a swirling energy center, conducive to healing, meditation, and energy. After visiting a vortex, you may feel inspired and uplifted. Travelers worldwide visit the Sedona area to experience the mysterious power and energetic forces that seem to radiate off of the red rocks. On a Sedona vortex tour, you will visit these enigmatic sites and learn about their history with the help of an experienced tour guide.

Places to Stay

Cabins

Nestled in forests filled with oak trees, Oak Creek Canyon Cabins & Cottages provide dreamy accommodations. No matter what time of year you decide to stay in a cottage or cabin, this might be one of the best lodging options in the area. Located near several opportunities for fishing, hiking, swimming, and cliff-jumping, staying in a cabin or cottage will put you right in the middle of the action. Whether you want a small and rustic cabin for two, or a large, luxury cabin for an entire family, Oak Creek Canyon Cabins and Cottages has an option for everyone.

The Briar Patch Inn, a collection of 19 cabins located on nine beautiful acres, 3 miles north of Sedona, is another fantastic choice. Southwestern decor, distinct wildlife, and lush grounds will give you an authentic Red Rocks experience. Delicious, homemade breakfasts are included every morning at the Briar Patch Inn. Breakfast is served outdoors in the spring and summer, next to the creek. In the fall and winter, cozy up with a warm breakfast next to the lodge fireplaces.

Camping

Oak Creek Canyon’s stunning scenery makes it no surprise that this area is a popular camping destination. Some of the best camping areas can be found in the Coconino National Forest. One of the most popular campgrounds is the Cave Springs Campground. This site is situated in a forested canyon, near Sedona’s red rock cliffs. Many of the campsites on these grounds are nestled on the banks of Oak Creek, providing crystal clear water on hot summer days. Cave Springs is also located near several hiking trails that lead up the canyon, showcasing lovely views at the top.

Another popular camping area in the Coconino National Forest is the Pine Flat Campground. While Slide Rock State Park is just a short drive from this area, a trout-stocked stream is located on-site. If you’re having no luck with fishing, you can still go swimming, bird-watching, or hiking.

Manzanita Campground is a smaller camping area in Coconino, but it is always busy because of its stunning beauty, fantastic hiking trails, sparkling swimming areas, and diverse wildlife. If you come early on a weekday morning, and maybe have a bit of luck, you might be able to snag a campsite. Because of Manzanita’s small size, RVs and trailers are not allowed.

Sedona lodging options

For a more thorough review check out our complete article on Sedona area Lodging. Here are some interesting options from the longer post.

El Portal Sedona is a boutique hotel located in the heart of Sedona. This AAA Four-Diamond hotel was designed with pets in mind, while also providing modern amenities and excellent service. With tile and wood floors, beautiful rooms, and concierge services, this is an ideal place to stay in Sedona.

Oak Creek Terrace Resort is an excellent option for a romantic getaway. With jetted jacuzzi tubs and in-room fireplaces, this resort was built with couples in mind. You can stay in a cabin, bungalow, or family unit and enjoy amenities like swings, picnic areas, and two-person hammocks.

For a more sophisticated aesthetic, check out the Amara Resort in Sedona. This newly-renovated resort offers a luxury spa, fitness center, and zero-edge infinity pool. Modern rooms, on-site al fresco dining, and valet parking are just a few of the luxurious touches that this resort has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions about Oak Creek Canyon – Sedona, Arizona

How long is Oak Creek Canyon drive?

This scenic drive is 14 miles. However, the distance on Arizona Route 89A from Flagstaff to Sedona is 33 miles. The entire stretch is beautiful to drive. Plan for lots of stops to enjoy the breathtaking scenery.

Is Oak Creek Canyon Closed

No. The drive through Oak Creek Canyon is open. And there are few restrictions on the surrounding land. However, that can change with little notice. the US Forest Service manages much of the Coconino National Forest. They post updates on their website regularly.

What state parks or natural attractions are nearby?

Slide Rock State Park is located right on State Route 89A. In addition, several hiking trails lead to beautiful scenic areas. Among them are Vultee Arch and Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness.

Concluding Thoughts – Oak Creek Canyon – Sedona, Arizona

I love the area of Arizona between Flagstaff and Sedona. Likewise, if in the area, I never miss the chance to drive through Oak Creek Canyon. If you get the chance to take the drive, you will not be disappointed at all.

Beyond the obvious attractions mentioned here, there are dozens more within hiking distance. Moreover, this area offers such spectacular scenery. That makes it ideal for drone photography. The use of drones is permitted in National Forests, subject to certain rules.

Take your time on the drive. Enjoy the scenery. And let us know what you think about Oak Creek Canyon – Sedona, Arizona.

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