Oak Creek Canyon Drive: 14 Miles of Beauty Between Flagstaff & Sedona
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Oak Creek Canyon Drive is an extremely picturesque 14 mile drive located along Route 89a in Northern Arizona. It’s a beautiful means of transportation from Flagstaff to Sedona or vice versa. I can’t imagine ever finding a drive more scenic, natural, and exciting than this one. Since moving to nearby Kachina Village (just outside of Flagstaff), I have basically taken this road into Sedona nearly every weekend.
The drive starts just south of Flagstaff as you pass beautiful ponderosa pine forests and continuously brings forth even better scenery up until you eventually arrive at the beautiful million+ year old red rocks. I would say that this drive ranks right up there with the Grand Canyon on my list of must-do’s in the region.
This canyon is often referred to as “the smaller cousin of the Grand Canyon.” As so, it is the 2nd most visited tourist attraction in the state. The canyon, located in the beautiful Coconino National Forest, is a 2000 feet deep and 12 foot long river gorge. It follows the course of Oak Creek with many opportunities to enjoy the water via hikes and swimming holes.
From Ponderosa Pines
Your drive starts in the ponderosa pine forest of Flagstaff. Did you know that this area is located within the largest contiguous ponderosa pine forest? While the drive itself is gorgeous, I also recommend hitting the trails. I’ve enjoyed many gorgeous trails in the Coconino National Forest since relocating here. I love how the pines stay green all year so winter recreation is still scenic. Even a winter drive down this road will be equally beautiful thanks to the evergreen pines.
To towering red rock vistas
Once you get closer to Sedona and the elevation drops to around 4000 feet, all of the sudden the landscape transforms into a picture-perfect red rock backdrop. If you have ever been to the Garden of the Gods in Colorado, this is 100 times better. Everywhere you look, you see these jaw dropping red rock overlooks around you. You will never say that Arizona is a brown, boring desert after taking this drive: I almost guarantee it! I could go on all day, but here are a few pics to give you an idea.
America’s most interesting drive: things to do
Along the way, there are numerous scenic overlooks, fun things to do (hiking trails, restaurants, Native American Craft markets), picnic areas, and swimming holes (Slide Rock State Park is a top rated tourist attraction which features natural waterslides).
Oak Creek Vista
At this scenic overlook which lies on the Mogollon Rim, you can take in a great view of the canyon and also shop for handmade Native American crafts. You will find handcrafted dreamcatchers, pottery pieces, and jewelry. This is one of my favorite viewpoints of the ponderosa pines in the area. The market is open from 9-4pm. There is drinking water and vault toilets available as well.
Indian Gardens: the best breakfast in the state
One day we were driving along the route and we came across this Native American jewelry shop called Garlands. Right next door was a little cafe called Indian Gardens. This rustic restaurant features a full espresso bar, pre-made snacks, and a full breakfast and lunch menu. You can enjoy your food on a lovely patio which offers a hint of red rock scenery and tranquil fountains. Each chair has a cozy blanket on it and there are lots of lovely trees and birds around. After this one visit, this quickly became our favorite restaurant in the area. Every single time we drive this route, this is our first stop.
For breakfast, I highly recommend their Grains and Greens bowl or the breakfast burrito. This bowl includes the most savory mix of eggs (2 your way), sauteed kale, butternut squash quinoa, potatoes, and avocado. I’ve never had a better breakfast entree in my life. Mike also loves their breakfast burrito and to date hasn’t found one that can even compete.
Their coffee is amazing as are any of the espresso drinks we have tried (I love their Americano and mocha). Also during the fall they whip up the best pumpkin muffins. Lunch is also wonderful – I had the most amazing seasonal butternut squash soup here. You can also purchase fresh bread to go and premade meals and snacks.
Midgley Bridge
This is one of the most photographed stops along the drive. Unfortunately, it also has a bleak history – many suicides have occured here. On a more positive note, there is a beautiful & relatively easy trail which begins at this bridge called Wilson Canyon.
Slide Rock State Park
Slide Rock is as unique as it gets. At this natural swimming hole, you will find waterslides made out of the natural red sandstone. Aside from the slides for which the park is most famous for, picnicking, hiking, apple picking, and sunbathing are other popular activities to enjoy during your visit.
Hiking Trails
Although the best trails are found in Sedona, there are several great hikes to check out on this route.
These include:
- The West Fork Trail: Popular trail which features 13 creek crossings. Wonderful creek & red rock scenery. Quite long at 3.5 miles each way, but mostly easy terrain.
- The Cookstove: Steep, 1/2 mile climb to an overlook of the canyon. Quiet and often overlooked.
- Wilson Canyon: Great 1.5 mile out-and-back which starts at Midgley Bridge. Great for families and new visitors.
A leaf peeping hotspot
The difference in elevation and temperatures along the way is dramatic (ranging from 7000-4000 ft and as much as a 20 degree temp change), leading to a wonderful diversity of trees, from the ponderosa pines near Flagstaff to all different types of deciduous trees as you move further along. There are so many varieties of trees on this drive and it’s one of the few places where you can see the types of foliage you would expect up north. That being said, I highly recommend a fall color hike in Flagstaff which is simply stunning this time of year.
There are some nice colors mid way through the drive near the Indian Gardens restaurant area. The best place to leaf peep is along the West Fork trail. You will find a nice mix of gold, red, and orange hues along this trail.
The #1 thing to do in this region
This is one drive where you will never lose interest at any point. Even if you choose to sit in your car the entire time and not enjoy any activities or overlooks, it is worth it for the tremendous views you will encounter at every turn. Just when you think it can’t get any better, it does! You will find yourself totally lost in nature anytime you take the scenic journey – it never gets old! Pictures do no justice – this is one ride you just have to experience yourself!
Below is a brief preview of a video we took on a slow morning. Note that the drive will be much more crowded later on in the day, on weekends, and especially, during holiday periods. I recommend driving early and during the week if possible.
A Final Note
There are many places to get out of your car, stretch your legs, and admire the breathtaking scenery. Take your time, drive slow (the roads are very twisty with drastic elevation changes), and enjoy the journey. When you arrive in Sedona, you will be treated to even more spectacular views.
While the drive ends in Uptown Sedona, the fun and breathtaking views linger on. In Uptown Sedona’s shopping district, you will find local dining options, shops, tours, bars, galleries, and much more. There is this great little shop called the Black Cow that serves the best prickly pear ice cream. Also, I love browsing the boutique shops which carry all sorts of fun southwestern themed souvenirs. The area is very walkable, and therefore, is the perfect place to spend an hour or 2 strolling around.
Just one of many fabulous viewpoint in the Uptown area. Just walking around you will see jaw dropping red rock scenery, although I do recommend hitting the trails and taking in the scenery in a less congested setting.
I also recommend enjoying lunch at Wildflower Bread. It’s a wonderful regional chain similar to Panera Bread. The only difference is their soups and sandwiches are even better and they offer a nice patio facing the red rocks. Oh, and if you need a caffeine boost, the Starbucks offers a pretty incredible viewpoint as well.
Hiking in Sedona
The most popular hike in town is Devil’s Bridge, an iconic hike which involves a walk over the largest sandstone arch. This was my first hike after moving here and I was shocked by the level of traffic! For those seeking something a bit more low-key and maintained, I recommend the Eagles Nest trail at Red Rock State Park: a quieter option featuring gorgeous views, pretty trees, and lots of wildlife. For an easy nature stroll with great views, check out the Fay Canyon trail or Ming’s Draw.
I recommend checking out my best of Sedona hiking guide for full details. I’ve lived here for a while and spent pretty much every weekend exploring most of the trails. I feel like this is a great list of the most bang-for-your-buck options in the region.
Tips for a smooth drive
*Plan your drive on a weekday for fewer crowds, preferably early in the morning. This is also when you will have the greatest opportunity to see wildlife.
*Plan a spring, late fall or winter trip for less road congestion. Roads are paved during the winter, although they can be slippery.
*Plan for a hike in Sedona after your drive. Seeing the beautiful scenery up close is a much different experience.
*Slide Rock State Park is very busy during the summer season. If planning to check it out, be sure to do so on a weekday.
*Drive slow – the roads are very curvy and at times steep and a bit scary.
*Be sure to drink plenty of water as you will be driving through high elevation areas. If your ears start popping, chew gum or drink more water.
*Wear layers. The weather changes dramatically from Sedona to Flagstaff. Flagstaff sees cool temps year round. Summer daytime temperatures in Flagstaff often fall in the mid 70’s-lower 80’s with lows in the 50’s-60’s. On the opposite end, highs in Sedona can soar into the 90’s!
*Have an itinerary planned for the day. There is so much to see and do, both on the drive and when you arrive in Sedona. You will not have time for everything in one day, so plan accordingly! I recommend planning a restaurant or 2, a hike, time to take photos by the overlooks, and extra time browsing for some unique Native American crafts to take home as a souvenir. If you have more than 1 day, a jeep tour, hot air balloon ride, or spa visit would add to the experience.
For directions, visit the Coconino National Forest website.
Where to stay
Consider booking a hotel to maximize your experience. One day simply isn’t enough time. Lodging options nearby include hotels, inns, and resorts both in Flagstaff and Sedona, along with more peaceful lodging along the drive. Book well in advance to ensure your desired date.
We recently stayed in a charming place called The Inn Above Oak Creek. The views of the creek and surrounding nature make it a nice low-key choice. You won’t find many amenities but peace and quiet, although a small complimentary breakfast is offered.
