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Oak Creek At Oak Creek Canyon

Aerial view of Oak Creek Canyon View from Top of
Oak Creek Canyon
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There are several ways to get to Sedona Arizona but the most picturesque is the drive between Flagstaff and Sedona on Highway 89A that goes through Oak Creek Canyon. You can either drive south from Flagstaff and take hairpin turns as it drops into the canyon or drive up the canyon north from Sedona. Read more about the Scenic Oak Creek Canyon Drive.

Oak Creek.

Oak Creek is a crystal clear stream that over millions of years formed Oak Creek Canyon as it dropped steeply from the top of the rim. The creek cut through the same rock strata that formed the Grand Canyon. Oak Creek meanders through the narrow gorge of steep canyon walls of crimson red.

Hotels Nearby Oak CreekThe cool waters of Oak Creek has created one of the most lushly vegetated landscape one could ever expect to experience. The greenery of Oak, Aspen and Oak trees, colorful foliage of springtime wildflowers or autumn's golden leaves contrasting against the red rock canyon walls is breathtaking beauty.

The creek and canyon are within Red Rock State Park. The creek at various points moves rapidly and can become a torrent of overflowing waters during heavy rains and snow melt-off from the higher elevations. At other points, the creek slows to a crawl and even pools into swimming holes that are a favorite summer getaway for those that live in the desert cities.

Oak Creek Oak Creek in Oak Creek Canyon
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Oak Creek could be one of the most scenic fishing spots in the country and is stocked with Brown Trout. The famous Slide Rock is about mid-way between the top of the canyon and Sedona. Slide Rock is a natural water-slide where enthusiasts slide down and then get out, trek back up and slide down again and again. Try it, you will have a blast. Be advised to wear old jeans. The slippery boulders beneath the water are relative smooth but will still ruin a good pair of jeans.

The creek is lined on both sides with cabins, lodges, cottages and bed and breakfast inns that are romantically set among some great hiking trails and fishing spots. There are several pull-off view points along the creek which runs about 14 miles from the canyon rim to Sedona.


The Facts.

Location: Oak Creek Canyon begins about 14 miles south of Flagstaff on paved roads.

Access: Drive south from Flagstaff on US 89A. About 14 miles down the road you reach the edge of Oak Creek Canyon before it drops nearly a thousand feet down a series of switchbacks to the canyon floor and continues for 13 more miles beside cool, clear Oak Creek. You can turnaround and go up the canyon for a different perspective.

Campground Season: Early Spring through mid-Fall (or first snowfall). Manzanita Campground is open all year.

Attractions: Fishing, Swimming, Slide Rock State Park, Hiking, Biking, Sightseeing, Wildlife Viewing and Photography.

Facilities: 5 developed campgrounds, 5 picnic areas, hiking trails, developed services and Interpretation at Slide Rock and Red Rock State Park.

Notes: During late spring and the summer months, Oak Creek Canyon can become very crowded when temperatures become ideal. The campgrounds fill early during these periods. Note that glass containers are not permitted at Slide Rock State Park.

For More Information.

Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Drive
Slide Rock State Park

Slide Rock State Park
6871 N. Highway 89A
Sedona, Arizona 86336
(928) 282-3034

Red Rock State Park
Red Rock Ranger District
4050 Red Rock Loop Road
Sedona, Arizona 86336
(928) 282-6907