A "Well-Balanced" Hike (West Fork Trail in Oak Creek Canyon) [ 2:54 ] Play Now | Play in Popup | Download
A "Well-Balanced" Hike (West Fork Trail in Oak Creek Canyon) [ 2:54 ] Play Now | Play in Popup | DownloadIt was better without the bridges.The West Fork Trail in Oak Creek Canyon is a dead-end trail with frequent stream crossings. Winter flooding capriciously shifts the actual trail on a yearly basis, leaving it in a delightfully “unfinished” state. Something about scrambling across rocks and logs elevates a hiking experience for me, and the patches of snow edging Oak Creek only added to the thrill. The very real possibility of toppling off a log into the frigid water enhanced my focus significantly and made each successful footstep back onto dry land feel like an honorable accomplishment.
As the crossings grew increasingly difficult over deeper and faster waters, it dawned on us to use walking sticks for balance. And we finally understood the reason for what we took to be an artistic gathering of weathered wood at the trailhead…
My stick was a “gift” from a passing hiker. It took a while to find an additional tree limb of suitable length and dryness, but our balancing poles made all the difference. We used them like gondoliers, moving ourselves carefully across unsteady rocks and logs that occasionally dipped and turned with the rush of water.
As we ventured further into the canyon, we could hear the weather of the outside world stirring far above us. The sky was but a strip of darkening clouds overhead, a narrow covering in constant motion above the riparian realm we had entered. Red and white cliffs soared high on either side, clearly defining our direction and enclosing us within a hushed fraternity of ponderosa pine, Gambel oak and snow-dusted ferns.
We were mere moments from Red Rock State Park and the remarkable red giants of Sedona, happily
bent on a sandy trail to “nowhere” (the cliff walls eventually squeeze the canyon floor out of existence, and Oak Creek alone flows on through the narrow space). Shivering slightly as the weather chilled, we were oddly reluctant to leave this pristine place even when we could go no further.
Eventually we did make our way back, increasing our pace as the air continued to cool around us. We reverently added our own walking sticks to the growing wood sculpture at the trailhead and wandered back through the remains of an interesting side note.
Mayhew Lodge, burnt to the ground in the late 70’s, was the inspiration point for Zane Grey’s novel “Call of the Canyon” which became
Sedona’s first movie. The property became a favored get-away for the likes of President Hoover, Clark Gable, Jimmy Stewart, Maureen O’Hara, Walt Disney and the like. All that remains today are crumbling buildings, an aged apple orchard and slabs of a cracked outdoor pool, but it’s easy to imagine the relaxed “summer camp” feeling the property might have once worn.
As the afternoon quickly faded toward dusk ending our hiking for the day, we traveled south again, content to watch the sun set fire to the reds and oranges of Sedona’s monolithic rocks.
Hi, Heather! Your photos are gorgeous! Beautifully written article. This should be in a glossy travel magazine! Love the podcast too.
Best,
Nina
I agree with the above. Your pictures and writing style deserve to be in a brochure. This way, we do get the commentary, though.
What incredible landscape and a glorious walk.
I used to read Zane Grey many moons ago. There was nothing like his yarns back then but haven’t read a cowboy book in decades.
Some very rustic scenes there…but my big question is just how prepared and fit do you have to be to scale these rocks and make those treks…
It looks all so tempting but the feeling of inadequacy keeps me in check!
Don’t tell me I am alone…
Beautiful photos and nice write-up! How much water was there? We might hike it this weekend, but I have to carry my three-year-old in a backpack for much of it. I’d hate to make the drive down there and not be able to do the hike.
Thanks in advance. I’ll check back to see if you post a response here…
Best from Flagstaff
Hi Heather,
Keep on posting your great photos! They are really amazing.
Oh so beautiful pics – and passion behind the written word. I love it!
I am yet to begin my trek out West. Eventually. And when I do, will make it a point to visit here because I know all-too-well that pictures never do a place such as this justice.
Thank you for sharing.
Chuck,
I’m answering you first since you’re headed that way! I hiked West Fork at the end of March. It didn’t look to be over knee-high (I’m 5’4″) anywhere then, and the first few crossings were not too deep at all.
The water was fairly frigid however, and I understand it to be that way almost year-round (they recommend a wet suit if you swim on through at the end of the trail to hike on). I did see some brave souls march through in water shoes. With a passenger, that might be your best option. Have a great Memorial weekend!
SF Girl and Jean-Luc,
You’ve just described my dream job. “Do what you love…”
Hi Heather. I have to agree that your pictures and writing are wonderful!
Beautiful, beautiful picture! Nice blog!
Best wishes.
Sincerely,
-Liane Schmidt.
Suzanne,
The majestic aura of the place spins all sorts of imaginings. I haven’t read ZG in years either, but I have a real appreciation of how a setting like Oak Creek Canyon could birth a story (Mine would include an inquisitive 40-ish heroine who LOVES to travel).
JollyJo,
Of course you could do it! And it’s more fun to get yourself in shape by hiking or biking outdoors than in a gym! I think if you go out with the idea of having fun and challenging yourself a little, you’ll never be disappointed. It’s always OK to say you’ve had enough, and chances are you’ll see something new and be pleasantly surprised at your own capabilities in the meantime.
Thanks Land Projects UK!
I’m learning a new camera this week that’s more on par with my film camera of a few years ago. Much fun! I’m looking forward to trying some new things!
Hi Kimba!
I know you’ve stepped into your “summer” already. We’re getting very close here; down to just a handful of school days… I’d really hoped to take my kids west this summer but am having second thoughts as gas prices escalate. Hope you’re able to get yourself there soon…
Have you climbed to the top on the first photo?
Limassol Cyprus: I haven’t. Would be fun though! It was a cold hiking day -did NOT want to fall in that water!