Northern Arizona is known for its natural beauty and unique geology. Our delivery drivers are no strangers to scenic drives, and Oak Creek Canyon is among the best in the country—in fact, it’s among Rand McNally’s Top 5 Most Scenic Drives in America. Located between the cities of Sedona and Flagstaff, the Oak Creek Canyon scenic drive takes vehicles along a 14-mile route that rises 4,500 feet between the center of Sedona and the Mogollon Rim.
The Canyon’s Geography
Oak Creek Canyon is a river gorge that is often likened to Arizona’s Grand Canyon; it is also the second most popular tourist destination in the state behind the larger landmark. Drivers can enter the 12-mile-long canyon via SR-89A to view the masterpiece left behind the Oak Creek, which still flows along the bottom of the canyon. In addition to the river, geologists believe that the 30-mile-long Oak Creek Fault also played a role in the canyon’s formation between eight and ten million years ago. Oak Creek Canyon varies between 0.8 and 2.5 miles in width, and its west rim sits 700 feet above the east rim.
The Drive’s Highlights
Oak Creek Canyon is home to breathtaking scenery that includes geologic formations and vibrant plant life. Slide Rock, located at the mouth of the canyon, is a popular natural swimming hole and a common place to stop during the summer. The Oak Creek Canyon Vista Point, which can be found at the top of the canyon, is populated by Native American stalls and kiosks selling native-made crafts and art. This vista is also one of the best places to view the canyon from above, allowing visitors to take in the true majesty and scale of this natural feature.
This article is part of our blog series, Arizona’s Amazing Roadside Attractions.
