Call of the Canyon Picnic Site

Call of the Canyon Picnic Site is the access point for one of Arizona's most beloved family hikes — West Fork Trail — and as a picnic area in its own right, it sits in one of the most beautiful canyon settings in the American Southwest.

Located in Oak Creek Canyon along AZ-89A north of Sedona, the site is managed by Coconino National Forest. The day-use area has shaded picnic tables, restrooms, and direct access to Oak Creek. For families not planning the full hike, this alone justifies the $10 vehicle fee: a serene canyon picnic spot with creek access and towering red walls on all sides.

But the real draw is West Fork Trail. This 3. 5-mile out-and-back route (to the first canyon narrows) requires 11+ creek crossings where you literally wade through Oak Creek to stay on the trail.

For kids who normally fight against hiking, this is the exception — the creek crossings make every quarter mile feel like an adventure rather than exercise. The canyon progressively narrows as you go deeper, eventually squeezing into spectacular slot-canyon passages that feel otherworldly.

For young kids (ages 4-8): the first mile with the early creek crossings is magical and manageable. For tweens and teens: pushing to the narrows at mile 3.5 is a genuinely memorable experience.

Water shoes are not optional — the creek bottom is rocky and the crossings are unavoidable. Bring a towel and a dry change of clothes for every family member. The trail has no shade in spots, so sunscreen and water are essential.

Parking is limited and fills fast on summer weekends. Arriving by 8am guarantees a spot. Weekdays in fall are the ideal combination of comfortable weather and minimal crowds.