GREAT SEDONA HIKES

West Fork

Summary: A wonderful, picturesque hike along a flowing creek

Challenge Level: Moderate

Hiking Distance: About 5 1/2 - 6 miles round trip, depending how far you decide to hike

Trailhead Directions: From the "Y" (the intersection of State Route 89A and State Route 179), drive north on SR 89A toward Flagstaff for 10 1/2 miles. Turn left in to the parking area located at GPS coordinates: 34° 59.454' N; 111° 44.555' W. The trail starts on the far side of the parking area, furthest away from the entrance.

Description: Located about 10 miles up Highway 89A from the "Y", the West Fork hike is one of our favorites. You'll pay $8 to park here unless you have a Senior Pass (then it will be $4), a weekly Red Rock Pass (parking at West Fork is included in the $15), or a Grand Annual Red Rock Pass. As you start the hike, check behind the small building adjacent to the parking area for hiking sticks left by hikers before you. The sticks help you navigate the creek crossings ahead. You'll be crossing the water about a dozen times as you hike the trail. You have to step from stone to stone to cross, so the hike isn't recommended in high water times (you'll get your feet wet!!). Because of the presence of water, there are many trees along the trail.

West Fork has two wonderful seasons, Spring and Fall. The most beautiful is Fall, when the trees display glorious colors. The third week in October seems to be when the colors are at their peak.

Photos:

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