The 30 mile drive from Flagstaff to Sedona is a scenic trip that has many stops and photo opportunities along the way. State road 89A is a winding two lane highway that passes through beautiful Oak Creek Canyon. If you are traveling from Flagstaff to Sedona, one of the first stops to make is at the Oak Creek Vista, also known as The Overlook. This area is open year round from 9am to 4pm and has drinking water and vault toilets available. During the high season months of April through November, Native American Indians sell jewelry and crafts at the vista. This is a wonderful place to look out over the canyon and admire the spectacular beauty of Northern Arizona. From the vista, you will coast downhill around several winding turns where the Ponderosa Pine forest gives way to Oak, Sycamore and Walnut trees growing thick along the roadside. Towering cliffs of sandstone stand guard over Oak Creek which parallels the road for most of the drive. There are several places to stop and enjoy Oak Creek Canyon along the way. There are many swimming holes, hiking trails and restaurants to entertain visitors of all ages. . Swimming In Oak Creek Canyon The Forest Service operates two recreational swimming areas in the canyon. Grasshopper Point and Slide Rock State Park. Both are day-use areas that cost an entry fee of $8 per vehicle. Each area allows swimming and fishing and vault toilets are available. Bring a picnic to enjoy but leave glass containers at home. Hiking In Oak Creek Canyon For those who wish to enjoy the views of Oak Creek Canyon from beyond the roadside, several day hikes of varying difficulties are scattered along the way. One of the most popular hikes is the West Fork trail. This scenic hike begins at the Call of the Canyon day use area that is located 17.5 miles south of Flagstaff. This picnic spot charges a $10 per vehicle entrance fee but fills up very quickly, so arrive before 11 am if you plan on hiking the West Fork trail. Another very popular hike is the Wilson Mountain trail; more strenuous and uphill, with stunning views. This hike begins near Midgley bridge, just two miles north of Sedona. Like all parking in the canyon, this trailhead requires a Red Rock pass wish is sold at a kiosk in the parking area. For questions regarding any trails or parking, contact the Forest Service Red Rock District: 928-203-2900. Other trails that are accessible for day hiking include: A. B. Young Trail #100 Casner Canyon Trail No. 11 Cookstove Trail #143 Harding Springs Trail #51 North Wilson Trail #123 Purtyman Trail Sterling Pass Trail #46 Telephone Trail #72 Thomas Point Trail #142 Wilson Canyon Trail No. 49 Places to Eat in Oak Creek Canyon Indian Gardens Cafe and Market This establishment is a quaint historic landmark nestled in Oak Creek Canyon along side the highway. They serve coffee, beer and wine as well as breakfast and lunch at the cafe which is open from 7:30 am to 6 pm. On a warm day, the shaded outdoor garden seating is an ideal way to enjoy a meal after a morning of hiking or swimming in the area. The convenience store sells a variety of drinks and snack foods for you bring on the road for your next leg of your scenic drive! Dairy Queen If a day of swimming in the hot sun has got you hankering for something cold and sweet or savory and deep fried, this fast food joint is guaranteed to hit the spot. It is not just your average Dairy Queen though, they also sell a variety of souvenirs in their gift shop. The Native American craft booths in the parking area are also a must visit after enjoying your meal. Jewelry and gemstones are a few of the items that are popular purchases made at these stations. Junipine Resort If you are in the mood for fancier cuisine or a well-made cocktail, The Table at Junipine Resort is a bar and cafe that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. They are located one half mile north of Slide Rock State Park, and two miles south of West Fork Trail. Outdoor seating is perfect during the warm months and three fireplaces will keep you cozy in the fall and winter. Fishing In Oak Creek Canyon If you prefer to catch your meal yourself, there are several species of fish living in the cool waters of Oak Creek. Rainbow Trout are stocked by the Page Springs fish hatchery at 25 separate sites and Bass, Catfish and Brown Trout are also plentiful along the 49 fishable miles of creek. For those less experienced or first timers, Sedona Rainbow Trout farm is a guaranteed catch. They provide all of the necessary equipment and even have grills on sight to cook your fresh caught Rainbow Trout. For visitors with children, this is a popular stop along scenic highway 89A. Call ahead for hours of operation (928) 282-5799. Places to Stay In Oak Creek Canyon Should you choose to spend more than one day exploring the beauty of the canyon, there are many overnight accommodations available. There are cabins and cottages, bed and breakfasts, hotels and vacation rentals to suit the needs of every visitor. If you are looking to immerse yourself in the outdoor ambiance of Oak Creek Canyon, the Forest Service operates 3 campgrounds year round. Cave Springs, Pine Flats and Manzanita campgrounds are very popular so the best time to secure a campsite is between 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. on non-holiday Sundays and weekdays. Reservations can be made by visiting Recreation.gov. You can also call 1-877-444-6777. Reservations must be made 3 days ahead of arrival and can be made up to 6 months in advance. Campsites are $22 per night and open season is April through October. Whether you hike or swim, picnic or dine indoors, catch fish or snap photos, leave in a day or stay overnight, Oak Creek Canyon has a little something for everyone. Whatever you choose to do along the way, the scenic drive from Flagstaff to Sedona is sure to be a memorable one.

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