There are a number of reasons why West Fork is one of the most popular trails on the Coconino National Forest. Once you’ve strolled beside the pleasant little stream that ripples along the canyon floor and looked up, way up, at the dizzying cliffs that tower above it, you will fall in love with it, too. West Fork is fantastic throughout the year. In springtime, migrating songbirds decorate the trees with flashes of brilliance. In autumn, the canyon is ablaze with color, with red and gold leaves floating in clear reflecting pools under a canopy of solid color. In wintertime, icicles decorate from red rock overhangs, and snatches of snow persist in cool shadows. As a matter of fact, you’ll probably find a new reason to be here every time you visit.

USDA Forest Service

West Fork is one of my favorite trails in Arizona. It holds many wonderful memories in my heart. It was Jade’s very first hike. Only 0.9 miles to the Swimming hole, but she had so much fun, she was looking forward to hiking many more times. We have made countless visits there, witnessing the beauty of spring, summer, autumn and winter.

Spring: The white-pink-apple blossom are the home of many bees. Butterflies are dancing in between wildflowers and the creek.

Summer: cool clear air bounces from cliffs and trees, the garden snake swims, the hummingbird takes her daily bath in the creek while we were seating nearby.

Autumn: the golden color reflects into pools from the sunlight, the red leaves finally stand out after many days lost in this mist of gush of green bed.

Winter: I’ll never forget the morning light shining on icicles hanging on the red rock cliffs, silver light, the quiet of the canyon. You can touch and hear the heartbeat.

Bird takes a bath in the creek. [photo by Lin]

“Today’s hike is not about the distance, it is all about the scenery and fall colors. Take your time enjoy it” I said to everyone after quick introductions. Andy and Li had never been here before. They cannot wait to hit the trail. But Quy is here and we need to take a group picture first.

After about 4½ hours and 8.8 miles, we were back to the trailhead. By then the parking lot was full and there were long lines of cars waiting to get in. We were so grateful that we started early: not only did we find the perfect parking spot, we also beat the traffic and crowed. Andy and Li were very satisfied and Li is planning to bring her family here soon. After a quick change of clothes, we left the park and go to Café Jose for lunch. The restaurant was busy, but since we only had seven people, it was pretty quick to get table and to order food. The service was good, the food was yummy, and everyone enjoyed it and left there with happy belly.

What an awesome day! Once again, West Fork lived up to her name—one of top place in Arizona to see fall color. Thanks for everyone for joining me for this relaxing trip. Thanks Andy and Lin driving everyone to the trailhead. Thanks to Quy, Li and Lin for sharing your pictures. Thanks to Jade for giving up your morning sleep and joining me to hike this beautiful trail. Thanks for Mother Nature for giving us sunshine and blue sky. So grateful and so thankful. What a blessing.

Li’s email was a prefect summing-up for the day:

Thank you for leading one of the most beautiful hikes in Arizona. I had never been West Fork before, this was so beautiful and indescribable. The water, mountain, maples, aspens and pines plus pleasant companies make this trip memorable. I will for sure return next year for this hike.

Yes, we will return next year for this hike. We will.