Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Drive

Just North of Sedona, Arizona

By Tony Subia

Last updated on May 2, 2026.

The Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Drive is one of Arizona’s most iconic and visually diverse road trips, following State Route 89A between Sedona and Flagstaff. This winding route travels through a dramatic river-carved canyon that stretches roughly 14 miles, featuring towering red rock cliffs, forested slopes, and the clear waters of Oak Creek flowing along the canyon floor. This Highway 89A scenic drive climbs thousands of feet in elevation, transitioning from desert landscapes near Sedona to cool pine forests near the Mogollon Rim, offering constantly changing scenery, scenic overlooks, and easy access to hiking trails, picnic areas, and recreation sites along the way.

Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Drive follows State Route 89A for about 14 miles between Sedona and Flagstaff, climbing nearly 4,500 feet in elevation. It is the best scenic drives in Arizona, and has been recognized as one of the Top 5 Most Scenic Drives in America by Rand McNally.

Drive Details

• Length: ~14 miles core scenic section
• Time: ~1 hour without stops

The scenic drive can ascend the canyon from Sedona or descend from Flagstaff, AZ. Either route is equally breathtaking as you slowly descend or ascend through picturesque forests. The canyon opens to the foliage of oaks interspersed with evergreen pines with the incredible backdrop of red-faced rocks and cliffs in the backdrop.

Best Stops Along Oak Creek Canyon Drive

• Slide Rock State Park
• Oak Creek Vista
• West Fork Trail
• Grasshopper Point

Passengers have the viewing advantage. The road is fraught with a few hairpin turns and switchbacks that require the driver's full attention. In any case, there are many locations along the drive for a chance to park and relish the beauty and enchantment Northern Arizona offers. Be sure to stop at Slide Rock, a popular water recreation spot in the summer.

The crystal clear Oak Creek flows throughout the year ensuring beauty filled with lush greenery during spring and summer with golden colors emerging in the fall. The canyon's deepest point lies about a mile and a half from the top of the rim. The canyon's walls are quite steep, but visitors marvel at the various colors of the rocks that seem to tower above the quiet waters below.

If you are lucky enough to make the drive after a rain, waterfalls will spill over the tops of cliffs. You will see several enticing campgrounds and picnic spots along the way. Take your fishing gear and try your luck catching trout from along the banks of Oak Creek.

Why People Enjoy Oak Creek Canyon

Visitors are drawn to Oak Creek Canyon for its unique combination of natural beauty, accessibility, and variety of outdoor activities. The canyon provides a refreshing contrast to Arizona’s desert regions, with shaded creekside areas, cooler temperatures, and opportunities for swimming, fishing, hiking, and photography. Popular stops such as Oak Creek Vista, Slide Rock, and numerous trailheads allow travelers to experience the canyon at their own pace, whether enjoying a scenic drive or spending the day exploring. The mix of red rock formations, lush vegetation, and flowing water creates one of the most memorable and relaxing outdoor destinations in the state.

Slide Rock State Park

Slide Rock is located at the mouth of the canyon and is the favorite getaway spot for the desert-dwellers when summer arrives. A natural water-slide (Slide Rock) makes this one of the regions most beloved attractions. Slide Rock State Park has been featured on various lists as one of America's ten best swimming holes.

West Fork Oak Creek Trail

Oak Creek Canyon is also home of the famous West Fork Oak Creek Trail, perhaps the most popular hiking trail in Arizona. West Fork hiking trail beckons in all seasons. The first few miles are easy hiking along the creek. You might get a bit wet walking across the creek, but you will relish the tranquility amidst nature.

Oak Creek Canyon Vista Point

At the top of the canyon, various Native American vendors sell hand-crafted authentic works of art at Oak Creek Canyon Vista Point. It is a great place to stop and enjoy the views into the canyon. Of all the beautiful scenic drives in Arizona, Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Drive is one no one should miss!

Oak Creek Canyon Photos, Mike Koopsen