The West Fork Trail begins at the Call O' The Canyon Trailhead, 10.4 miles north of Highway 179 on 89A. This famed trail follows the West Fork of Oak Creek 3.2 miles through Oak Creek Canyon to its maintained terminus, where hikers may either turnaround or continue upstream through ankle - chest high water.

The West Fork Trail crosses Oak Creek over a dozen times

Ferns blanket the forest dark, damp forest floor

Views of the canyon walls are limited under the tall canopy

Beyond 3.2 miles the unmaintained trails enters the creek through narrow slots

Despite Oak Creek Canyon's cluttered appearance, travel upstream is fairly obstacle free

A rare Yellow Columbine along the West Fork Trail

Active components in horsetail have antimicrobial, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory qualities

A heron scans the creek for trout one mile upstream of the maintained trail

Hikers will encounter deep water just beyond the maintained trail; once through, the creek is easily walked

Fir is prevalent in the canyon's higher elevations

The West Fork Trail runs along the outer canyon wall before dropping into the creek

Oak Creek has carved elongated grottos all along its path

Lupine is ubiquitous on the forest floor

Frequent stream crossings on the West Fork Trail

A leafy forest floor and canopy yield brilliant autumn colors