Oak Creek Canyon Tours

Slide Rock State Park showing tranquil scenes, a river or creek and mountains
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Take one of Arizona’s most beautiful scenic drives through this canyon and be sure to take your hiking boots, fishing rod, swimsuit and camera along for the ride.

Oak Creek Canyon is a steep river gorge that carves a breathtaking chasm between Sedona and Flagstaff in northern Arizona. Experience the region known as the little cousin of the Grand Canyon on the Oak Tree Canyon Scenic Drive, a magnificent stretch of road that that brings you some of the best views in the canyon. Wind through forested passes, keeping watch for the hiking trailheads dotted along the roadside. Find a spot to drop a fishing line in the heart of the canyon, Oak Creek, or swim in the gorge’s clear waters.

You can begin your journey as an ascent from Sedona or a descent from Flagstaff. Either way will present stunning views and a breathtaking 4,500-foot (1370-meter) change in elevation throughout the 14-mile (22.5-kilometer) road. Between Sedona to the peak of Mogollon Rim, you’ll see the lush foliage of tall oak trees and evergreen pines against a backdrop of red rock and rugged cliffs.

If you begin at Mogollon Rim, you’ll see a panoramic view of what awaits you at Oak Creek Canyon Vista. Peruse roadside displays of Native American handicrafts made by local artists as you wind down the narrow bends. Stop by Midgely Bridge for an opportunity to photograph the unfolding panorama of sunset-hued rock, sandstone cliffs and green foliage.

Once you’ve navigated the switchback turns, you’ll reach a lazy stretch of road alongside Oak Creek. If it has been raining, you might see waterfalls plunging into the coursing offshoots of the creek, as well as clear pools reflecting the crimson rock. Plunge into the canyon’s swimming holes or drop a fishing line. There are plenty of picnic spots and outlooks to linger at along the way.

Oak Creek Canyon is a free highlight of northern Arizona and easily accessible by car on the adjoining state and interstate routes. It should take 2.5 hours for the drive. Each season brings a different view to the region. While the road is regularly snow ploughed in winter, take care during slippery road conditions.

Past Sedona, you’ll reach the fascinating geological formations of Red Rock Country and the stunning hiking trails around Cathedral Rock and Bell Rock.

Plan a trip to see Oak Creek Canyon

Westgate Painted Mountain Golf Resort
Arizona Biltmore, A Waldorf Astoria Resort
Inn at Eagle Mountain
Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Browse tours and tickets to explore Oak Creek Canyon

Air, helicopter & balloon tours

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Reviews of Oak Creek Canyon

4.7
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
1116
" "5 - Excellent 73.66336633663366%
4 - Good
363
" "4 - Good 23.96039603960396%
3 - Okay
28
" "3 - Okay 1.8481848184818481%
2 - Disappointing
3
" "2 - Disappointing 0.19801980198019803%
1 - Terrible
5
" "1 - Terrible 0.33003300330033003%

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveler
Sep 25, 2019

I was told they would send me email discounts on restaurants and shopping but never did. Yup could see through the edges of the room door.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler
Sep 22, 2019

Fairly easy half mile hike down to the river. Beautiful walk along the river.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler
Jul 31, 2019

Be prepared for hiking

2/5 - Disappointing

Verified traveler
Jul 22, 2019

Parking. terrible on the weekends

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler
May 13, 2019

very relaxing spot

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler
Apr 9, 2019

Beautiful area - loved it

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Best Lodging Options Near Oak Creek Canyon

Junipine Resort
Junipine Resort
3.5 out of 5
8351 N Highway 89A, Sedona, AZ
Junipine Resort
2 Bedroom Condo On The Banks Of Oak Creek
2 Bedroom Condo On The Banks Of Oak Creek
Sedona
2 Bedroom Condo On The Banks Of Oak Creek
Kena Wellness Resort, Sedona
Kena Wellness Resort, Sedona
2.5 out of 5
9440 N AZ-89A, Sedona, AZ
Kena Wellness Resort, Sedona
Canyon Wren by RedAwning
Canyon Wren by RedAwning
3 out of 5
6427 North State Route 89A, Sedona, AZ
Canyon Wren by RedAwning
Rustic Cabin for 2 in Oak Creek Cabin
Rustic Cabin for 2 in Oak Creek Cabin
Sedona
Rustic Cabin for 2 in Oak Creek Cabin
Modern cabin for 6 with views of the red rocks and next to Slide Rock State park
Modern cabin for 6 with views of the red rocks and next to Slide Rock State park
Sedona
Modern cabin for 6 with views of the red rocks and next to Slide Rock State park
Modern cabin for 4 with views of the red rocks and next to Slide Rock State park
Modern cabin for 4 with views of the red rocks and next to Slide Rock State park
Sedona
Modern cabin for 4 with views of the red rocks and next to Slide Rock State park
Destination Oak Creek by RedAwning
Destination Oak Creek by RedAwning
3.5 out of 5
6401 N State Route 89A, Sedona, AZ
Destination Oak Creek by RedAwning
Private Deck ON THE CREEK Oak Creek 3 BR Home Canyon Views, Close to Sedona
Private Deck ON THE CREEK Oak Creek 3 BR Home Canyon Views, Close to Sedona
Sedona
Private Deck ON THE CREEK Oak Creek 3 BR Home Canyon Views, Close to Sedona
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.