Oak Creek Homestead
Difficulty: Moderate.
Description: A short, beautiful drive that descends through scenic red rock country. Most of this trail is moderate with lots of rocks. It features one short difficult section of narrow, rocky shelf road nicknamed “Cliffhanger”, that may intimidate some drivers. The latest Forest Service Travel Management Plan calls for a closure about 1/2 mile from the stone cabin at the river. One of the reasons is because drivers cross Oak Creek illegally, so remember to stop before the river and turn around. This is a popular horseback riding area. Take a lunch break at the river and enjoy the nature. This trail is suitable for Jeeps, but SUVs with high ground clearance, experienced driver, good articulation and skid plates will make it. Route-finding can be confusing at times.
Time & Distance: A total of 6 miles. Allow about 3 hours.
Trail Conditions: Coconino National Forest, Red Rock Ranger District. Call (928) 203-7500.
Remember: trail conditions, fire restrictions, weather, and land ownership change constantly so everyone must take responsibility for themselves, both for their safety and complying with all laws. Please understand that means YOU.
Directions to the Trail: Head southwest from Sedona on Hwy 89A. Turn left between mile markers 369 and 368 on Lower Red Rock Loop Road. Follow Lower Red Rock Loop Road south about 1.1 miles and turn right on an easy to miss F.S. 9845.
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Get yourself and your rig ready for the trip: Make sure both you and your vehicle are prepared for your next adventure.
Before you venture out on your offroading trip you need to make sure you are prepared for emergencies. Even if nothing happens to you or your vehicle, you might come across someone who needs help. Short of having your full-on bug-out-bag with you, you should at least have some basic emergency items. It might seem obvious to some, but you should get yourself a tool box with appropriate tools and leather gloves, good first aid kit, fire extinguisher, set of jumper cables, emergency blankets (stored in heavy plastic bag – both are useful), flashlight, tow strap and some extra water. I would also suggest a recovery strap, a military folding shovel, heavy duty garbage bags, and a hand crank self powered weather radio. These items are not expensive, but they just might save your day.
Another thing you should definitely do before you leave is to save the number to Arizona 4×4 Off Road Recovery in case you find yourself in need of recovery in the middle of nowhere. Their number is (602) 697-8306.
If you’re ready for a next adventure and want to plan it right, check out some of these trail guides – Arizona has so many awesome destinations to explore!
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