If you have time for only one memorable hike, let it be the West Fork Trail Sedona. This winding path at the base of Oak Creek Canyon leads you deep into a picturesque landscape, a unique ecosystem that blends high desert and riparian habitats. The narrow gorge, bisected by a crystal-clear stream, contains an abundance of evergreen and deciduous trees that provide dappled shade and seasonal color against the sheer, red rock walls that soar hundreds of feet overhead.

A combination of towering cliffs, gently flowing water, forest, and wildlife make this natural corridor one of the most popular hikes in the Coconino Forest. The dramatic beauty of the West Fork inspired Zane Gray’s novel, The Call of the Canyon, about a shellshocked WWI veteran who travels here to heal, ultimately finding a sense of peace in nature.

The trail attracts visitors throughout the year who come to admire nature’s rhythm along the banks of Oak Creek. There’s summer shade and cool water, brilliant fall color, glistening winter snow and icicles, and spring’s budding green leaves and wildflowers. West Fork Oak Creek Trail Sedona AZ is a hike you’ll want to savor, so give yourself plenty of time to enjoy this walk in nature along the canyon floor. 

Base at Ambiente, a Landscape Hotel that’s just a short drive away, and turn a glorious day hike into a restorative getaway. This is a place designed for trail enthusiasts who want to immerse themselves in Sedona’s natural beauty without sacrificing luxury. Guest atriums have floor-to-cieling windows and rooftop decks that offer stunning views of the forest and red rocks. The spa provides soothing body treatments, and Forty1 restaurant serves delicious, seasonal organic fare. Ambiente is your private sanctuary where you can unwind, recharge, and relive the day’s adventures surrounded by nature.

Book your stay now at Ambiente and plan to hike the West Fork in every season to fully appreciate one of the most lovely trails in the Southwest. Here’s our detailed guide to exploring the West Fork Trail Sedona AZ:

Photo via Visit Arizona

Accessing the West Fork

From Ambiente, it’s an easy drive to the trailhead. Exit the hotel onto scenic highway 89A, driving north through Oak Creek Canyon for about 9 miles. Look for milepost 385 and turn left (west) at the sign for Call of the Canyon Picnic Site. Park here to access the trailhead. 

• Fee: $15 per vehicle (up to five people) or $4 per person for walk-in and bike access.
• Parking: The small lot can fill quickly, especially at the peak of fall season. (if full, there are some pull-off spots farther north on 89A). Plan to arrive early in the morning, before 8:00 am, or late in the afternoon (allowing yourself enough time to complete the hike before dusk). The least crowded times to visit are weekday mornings. The gate is open from 7am till dusk from April through October; 8am to dusk in the winter months. 
• A paved path marked “Call of the Canyon Trail”  leads from the parking lot to a footbridge across Oak Creek. Once across the bridge, the path transitions to a dirt path as you veer left where you’ll be on the West Fork Trail that runs alongside the creek 

On the Trail

The West Fork Trail is an easy, out-and-back hike that is 3.3 miles each way, with 13 shallow stream crossings. Of course, you can turn around at any point if you don’t want to walk 6.6 miles. The terrain is mostly flat and well-maintained up to the 3.3-mile -turnaround point. You may see some backpackers continuing onward into the unmaintained wilderness area, but this is a much more strenuous ordeal.  

Highlights along the way:

• Mayhew Lodge Ruins: Early in the hike, you’ll pass what remains of a once-famous lodge owned by photographer Carl Mayhew. He fell in love with the canyon and bought the lodge in 1923 after working on the silent film version of Zane Gray’s novel. The Lodge welcomed many Hollywood notables including Clark Gable, Jimmy Stewart and Walt Disney.
• The Stream crossings require a bit of agility (or a walking stick) and a willingness to get your feet wet as you navigate strategically-placed stepping stones and logs. In warmer months, the cool water is refreshing, but you’ll want waterproof footwear when it’s cold.
• The “Subway Tunnel” marks the end of the maintained trail and the turnaround point. Beyond the pool of water, you’ll see how the canyon walls narrow into a water-filled corridor, which gives this section of the canyon its name.

A Hike for All Seasons

The canyon is beautiful throughout the year, taking on a different look and feel each season. Look up at the canyon walls, around at the vegetation and look out for wildlife like mule deer, tree squirrels and reptiles.

• Summer: A leafy green tree canopy offers cool shade as hikers purposely splash through the cold waters of Oak Creek. In hot weather, this is one of the most comfortable hikes in Sedona, with seasonal flowers and butterflies providing pops of color.
• Fall: A gorgeous season in the canyon when the deciduous trees put on a spectacular show of crimson, orange, and gold foliage against a backdrop of red rock walls. The colorful reflections in the water make this site a favorite of photographers.
• Winter: This is the quietest season with the fewest visitors. You might be walking through a light covering of fresh snow, with a frozen stream and icicles decorating the red rock overhangs. 
• Spring: Trees begin to bud, migratory songbirds return, and the creek is at its highest due to snowmelt from the surrounding mountains. March is typically when colorful wildflowers appear. Look for vibrant displays of bright red Indian paintbrush, yellow desert marigolds, and purple lupine.

Tips for Visitors

• Footwear: Wear hiking shoes or sandals designed for water
• Gear: Bring a walking stick or trekking poles, especially handy for creek crossings. Pack plenty of water and snacks.
• Timing: Depending on your pace, allow about three hours to enjoy the full experience of hiking the roundtrip trail and taking in the scenery.

From the Canyon Floor to Rooftop Stargazing

No matter the season, Ambiente offers an array of restorative pleasures for hikers. In warm weather, cool off in the swimming pool with an icy beverage in hand. In the cooler months, sink into your atrium’s deep soaking tub for a long, luxurious bath. Treat yourself to a soothing body massage or a warming body wrap at Velvet Spa. Toast the day’s adventures with a hand-crafted cocktail or a fine wine and a delectable meal. Before climbing into a luxurious kingsize bed with organic linens, climb up to your private rooftop for an evening of stargazing below a vast Arizona sky.

From the canyon floor to the top of your Atrium, nature is the thread that ties this getaway together. The West Fork’s red rock cliffs, sunlight filtered through trees, and the gentle sounds of flowing water complement a stay at Ambiente. Nestled seamlessly into the landscape above a flowing creek, the hotel keeps you visually and spiritually connected to the natural beauty of Sedona, making your stay as memorable as the West Fork walk.