There are a number of reasons why West Fork is the most popular trail on the Coconino National Forest. The trail is an easy stroll, but you do have to cross the stream in a number of places. Usually, that involves negotiating a few strategically placed stepping stones or taking a couple of steps in shallow water. The trail is marked for the first three miles; however, many hikers continue beyond that. Eventually the pathway ends and you will be forced to hike in the stream bed as you continue into the Secret Mountain/Red Rocks Wilderness. If you choose to travel all 14 miles from one end of the canyon to the other, plan to do a lot of wading and boulder hopping, and even some swimming.

No matter how long a hike you take here, you’ll enjoy it best if you come at a time when the trail is least crowded. Mornings and weekdays are best, better yet if they’re in the off-season.

Access: Drive south 17.5 miles south from Flagstaff or north 9.5 miles from Sedona to about halfway between milepost 385 and 384. The Call of the Canyon Day-Use Area is at the Trailhead of the West Fork Trail.

There are 6 picnic table sites; toilets; parking area for the West Fork Trail. Call of the Canyon is a fee area.

Fees: Day-use is $9 per vehicle