Oak Creek Canyon cuts north from Sedona through increasingly dramatic red and white rock walls to the Mogollon Rim, about 15 miles of Highway 89A bordered by the Coconino National Forest. In autumn, the cottonwoods along the creek turn gold against the red walls, creating one of the most striking colour combinations in American landscape. The canyon is also noticeably cooler than Sedona itself, which makes it attractive in summer.
The most popular stop is Slide Rock State Park, where the creek runs over a smooth sandstone channel creating a natural water slide. Hiking options include the West Fork Trail (one of Arizona's best), a canyon hike through a side canyon with multiple creek crossings, closed when water levels are high. The overlook pullouts along the highway on the drive out of Sedona towards Flagstaff are worth stopping for even if you do not plan to hike.