One of the most popular trails in Coconino National Forest, and notable nationally, the West Fork trail meanders alongside West Fork Oak Creek. At spots along the trail, it crosses the intermittent stream.

West Fork Trail (Trail No. 108) is a long, creekside hike in Coconino National Forest, following West Fork Oak Creek along the canyon floor. The trail route is known for frequent crossings of the creek as it runs intermittently, so expect multiple spots where you’ll have to step across stepping stones or wade in shallow water.

The creekside tread runs alongside high canyon walls and stays most forgiving along the early maintained segment; the trail is marked and maintained for the first three miles. Beyond that point, hikers who continue do so farther into the canyon where the route becomes more demanding and leads into the Red Rock–Secret Mountain Wilderness.

Surface is dirt path, and trail visibility is generally good. The route is designed as a short-hiking specific member route with an intermediate smoothness overall, which matches the character of frequent, short technical moments at water crossings.

For planning, a practical way to size the hike is by how far you stay on the maintained trail versus continuing farther up the canyon; common turnaround options focus on the first three miles for a shorter round trip, while longer full-canyon efforts require substantially more time and more time in/near the creek.

Logistics and access are built around the Call of the Canyon area near Oak Creek Canyon; the trailhead parking is tied to the Call of the Canyon Picnic Site. Mechanized use is not allowed on the trail because this is within a designated Wilderness area, so it’s a foot-traffic-only hike. Dogs are permitted but must be on leash.

The trail has a history of being one of the more popular hikes in the forest, and it’s managed as an easy stroll for the first three miles even though the overall experience includes repeated creek crossings. When you go, mornings and weekdays typically offer the least crowding, which matters on this route due to its popularity.

More information: Visitor information, West Fork Trail: 13 Creek Crossings & Beauty in Every ..., Backpacking the West Fork Trail in Coconino National ...