New England in Arizona: A Fall Hike Along the Colorful West Fork Trail
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It’s no surprise that the leafy West Fork Trail in picturesque Oak Creek Canyon is one of the top hiking trails in all of Arizona. I am originally from the Midwest and lived in New England for some time, so I really missed that traditional fall vibe with a medley of hues encompassing the forests. While I enjoy hiking amongst the golden aspens in Flagstaff, it just isn’t the same. When I found out about about this leaf peeping hotspot, I knew I had to plan a hike here.
Each summer, thousands and thousands of tourists and locals alike take the scenic drive down the canyon to enjoy the beauty of this leafy trail. The trailhead is located on the scenic Oak Creek Canyon drive, a gorgeous 14 mile long canyon located between the beautiful communities of Flagstaff and Sedona. This drive is frequently regarded as one of the most scenic in the country. After living in the region for many years and driving this road at least a few times per month, I agree!
Due to the changing altitude and temperatures, the scenery varies vastly with every twist and turn. Incredible views range from rare ponderosa pine forests, to towering red rock formations, to beautiful canopies of lush green deciduous trees. Beautiful Oak Creek, flowing on the bottom of the canyon, is one of the few year-round streams in Arizona. This trail gives you the opportunity to enjoy views of the creek, red rocks, and fall leaves. It’s a bit pricer than other trails in the area ($15 vs. $5) but worth it for the scenery. Unfortunately, the fee doesn’t keep tourists away.
A popular hike in Oak Creek Canyon
The best part about hiking this trail is the road you take to get there. Along the way, you’ll get to see some of the most beautiful scenery in the country. This trail is one of the most popular within the Coconino National Forest so you will find a lot of tourists here all year.
A summer hike along the West Fork is a magnificent experience. The shady tree coverage provides a nice escape from the endless summer heat. Daytime temps in Sedona are relentlessly hot, sometimes pushing 95+ degrees for weeks on end. To top it off, the majority of the trails in town offer little to no shade. Of course, this is expected for a desert. Really, some of the most beautiful hiking trails I’ve ever seen (just don’t set out in the dead of summer!).
What sets the West Fork apart is that the setting is just so different from the other dry red rock trails. There are 13 fun creek crossings to challenge yourself to along the 3.5 mile out-and-back journey. Along the way, you’ll be able to take in the beauty of the towering canyon walls. Peaceful flowing creeks add a sense of tranquility. Temps are much cooler here and little sunlight ever reaches the canyon, making it an ideal escape during the hot season.
A fall gem in the high desert
While a summer hike is great, I actually prefer hiking this one in fall. Despite the insane crowds, this hike is actually really peaceful once you get out there away from the traffic. Many tourists only take pics at the beginning or turn around at the mile mark, so continue on for fabulous leaf peeping, wonderful red rock scenery, and serenity. Surprisingly, I see few tourists after going out a bit.
When the beautiful fall season arrives, the leaves of the oaks and maple along this trail begin to transform into gorgeous hues of red, orange, and gold. The ponderosa pines contrast dramatically when mixed amongst the colorful autumn leaves.
The immense popularity comes from the fact that it is one of few trails in the state to offer the type of leaf peeping you would typically only get to enjoy in the Midwest and Northeast. While neighboring Flagstaff offers the most dazzling fall foliage in the state, this is solely in the form of golden aspen trees. Many Phoenix residents are originally from the Midwest and Northeast states, and thus, come out here in droves to enjoy the traditional fall ambiance.
Fall foliage in Flagstaff vs. Oak Creek
For anyone looking to see leaves in a medley of hues, this is the trail for you. It’s basically the only place in the state where you can see a diverse variety of color all in one place. The soothing sounds of the creek in an area with little water combined with an abundance of maples and oaks make West Fork the most New England-ish feeling hike in the area.
What I love most are the leaves scattered on the trail. It reminds me of walking in a quiet forest in Massachusetts in late fall. As I walk through the dense forest, I can’t help but feel nostalgia as I hear the sound of leaves crunching beneath my feet. So any transplants missing the leafy scenery and Eastern autumn ambiance will likely appreciate this trail even more!
Enjoy a few more photos of the trail during the peak of fall
The region’s most popular leaf peeping destination
This trail has become jam packed in recent years. So popular in fact, that there is often a long wait just to get into the parking lot! You will see many people parking up to a 1/2 mile away and walking along the road to avoid the lengthy car wait.
Nature lovers, photographers, hikers, Phoenix locals looking to escape the heat, Flagstaff residents seeking non-aspen fall foliage, tourists on fall vacations…they can all be found on this trail for the entire month of October -and sometimes even into November. If I am not hiking this trail, I usually drive Oak Creek early to avoid the tourist traffic. It can get pretty bad especially after mid morning.
It’s not the best fall color hike in Arizona, however, it is one of the best overall hikes in my opinion. Although the breathtaking red rock trails in Sedona are absolutely stunning, they can get a bit monotone. This is more the case for year-round residents. Hiking this trail is like finding a nature oasis in the middle of the desert, offering scenery not found elsewhere in the area.
How long will the hike take?
The entire hike round-trip is about 7 miles. Although the hike is one of the easiest in the area with pretty much completely flat terrain, it can take a long time with all the creek crossings. Plan on about 3-4 hours to complete the entire trek. Despite the easy terrain, you will likely end up with sore muscles. Your body is using lots of little muscles that do not get used as often!
Tips for a great hike
*Plan on a weekday hike to beat the crowds. If hiking on the weekend, you will want to get here as early as possible to avoid a lengthy wait. Before 8am is ideal!
*Wear a camelbak or bring multiple water bottles. You will need lots of water if you intend on hiking the entire trail. Sedona’s climate is very dry, so you need to drink more than usual. Plus, you are at a higher elevation – over 5000 feet which means your body is working harder.
*Plan plenty of time to complete the hike. This trail takes at least 3 hours to complete in its’ entirety – so be sure to get out there early enough. Plan on a set distance before you set out. It may seem easy going out, but remember you have to come back!
*Always dress in layers. Also remember that this trail barely sees any sunlight, and thus, feels much cooler than most Sedona hikes. Always have a long sleeve on hand, especially during the cooler fall season. Some years, it can be really, really cold. The 2015 season saw early snow!
*Wear capri workout pants or shorts. Long pants that are hanging down may cause you to slip on a rock at one of the stream crossings.
*A hiking stick comes in handy for extra balance at the stream crossings. Rocks and logs are there to help you cross the streams, however, a stick is great for providing extra balance in the more tricky sections. Take your time and use your stick!
*Bring with several snacks. This is a long hike and you will will need some extra energy especially for the return route. It would be a shame to have to leave earlier than expected due to a lack of energy. Sandwiches, chips, fruit, granola bars, or energy bars are a few of my recommended choices.
*Your feet will get wet when crossing the streams. If this is going to bother you, then I recommend waterproof hiking shoes. Having a pair of sandals waiting in the car is a smart idea.
Dining pre and post hike
*A great breakfast choice pre-hike which I frequent regularly is Indian Gardens, located just a few miles down the road. This local gem opens super early, makes the best espresso drinks, and offers a great breakfast menu focusing on local ingredients. I love the Grains and Greens Bowl and the seasonal pumpkin muffin.
*For lunch, I recommend Miley’s Cafe, the Hideaway House, and Red Rock Cafe. All of these local cafes offer great food and are casual enough to come in post-hike wearing your hiking/workout clothes.
Address & parking info
Location: Take 89a (17.5 miles south from Flagstaff or 9.5 miles north from Sedona) until you reach milepost 384-385.
Fees: Parking is $15 per vehicle. Or $4 per walk in/bike. Have cash on hand as debit/credit is not accepted.
Pet policy: Dog friendly – must be leashed. Have cash on hand as debit/credit is not accepted.
Hours: 7am-Dusk (April-Oct), 8am-Dusk (Nov.-March).
Pricing current as of 2026 – check the Coconino website for updates.
