PanethosTrekking the Oak Creek West Fork Trail near Sedona
Magnificent Oak Creek Canyon from the scenic vista on Highway 89AWhile in Sedona, we hiked a good portion of the Oak Creek West Fork Trail in Coconino National Forest. Located deep inside impressive Oak Creek Canyon, this trail is well worth a visit.
This startlingly beautiful trail is a truly unique adventure since it crosses the lovely Oak Creek 13 times, with only one (closest to the trailhead) being a bridge. Otherwise it’s up to the hiker to carefully tread across assembled stones, logs, ice, or all of the above to reach the opposite bank.Images of the three fords are shown below.
Fortunately, the water level was running low and while ice was present, it didn’t cause most of the fording to be slick. In fact, for one fording spot, this author felt more comfortable slowly sliding my feet across the ice than attempt the rather jumbled assembly of logs and rocks. Definitely bring at least one, preferably two hiking sticks with you for this trip, especially if you are uneasy on your feet in these situations.
Looking up towards the canyon rim.Due to the waning daylight, we made it across the stream four times in each direction along the trail. Despite this, the canyon was spectacular, especially the rugged and steep stone walls rising up from the floor to the rim.
Outstanding rock formations along the trail corridor.Unlike many canyons in the Southwest, Oak Creek has a heavily wooded floor, which would come in handy during hotter weather. When we hiked the trail, the temperatures were in the 40s, though noticeably cooler in the shaded areas.
Abandoned outbuilding ruins at the former Gilbert LodgeThe only downside is there is a fee to enter even if you have the America the Beautiful Pass. Similarly, the lower cost Red Rock Passes for the Sedona area does not apply here, though the Grand Annual Red Rock Pass is accepted. So, unless you have that specific pass, be sure to bring some cash with you.
Peace and happy hiking!
Source: fs.usda.gov#Arizona #environment #Flagstaff #fords #fun #geography #hiking #history #landUse #OakCreek #OakCreekCanyon #recreation #Sedona #tourism #trails #travel #WestForkTrail
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J L Kalman
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