USA Oak Creek Canyon

West Fork is the most popular trail in the Coconino National Forest in Arizona. The drive along the twisting highway 89A between Sedona on the south end to the intersection of 89A and Interstate 17 is spectacular. Especially in the Fall when autumn leaves are brilliant red, orange, and yellow. South of Oak Creek Canyon, SlideRock State Park is a popular swimming area and is highly photogenic and the Sedona, Arizona area, while extremely busy, offers endless photo opportunities.

There are 13 creek crossings via rocks or logs but you’ll likely get your feet wet. Consider wearing water shoes. The best compositions are sometimes from in the creek bed. Carry a tripod. Polarizing and ND filters. Get there early to avoid the crowds. We arrived at the parking area at sunrise and had no issues with people walking into our pictures. By the time we got back to the parking area it was packed with tourists.

Drive 17.5 miles south from Flagstaff or 9.5 miles north from Sedona to about halfway between mileposts 385 and 384. The trailhead is on the west side of the highway down a paved lane that leads behind a few creekside houses. Park at the “Call O' The Canyon” day-use area ($11 US per vehicle). During the summer, fall, spring break, and other busy times of the year, Call of the Canyon (West Fork Trailhead) parking fills up every day by 9:30 a.m., seven days per week. Have a backup plan for a different hike or day use area if the parking lot is full. Parking along the road is extremely dangerous, and damages soils and vegetation. Mornings and weekdays are best, better yet if they're in the off-season.