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| Hiking | 7.76 Miles |
381 AEG |
| | Hiking | 7.76 Miles | 4 Hrs 41 Mns | | 1.67 mph |
| 381 ft AEG | 3 Mns Break | | | |
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| no partners | | Another delayed triplog...
West Fork of Oak Creek is a favorite place to visit....though historically I've visited late in the day as an exit route from technical canyoneering routes in the area (slightly surprised and delighted to see some of those suggested here when looking at nearby routes since I was involved in the scouting of a number of those routes...but I digress)
We headed up out of the valley, hoping for some fall colors, and we were not disappointed. I was reminded how beautiful the redrocks of sedona are, and also was astounded at how things have changed since I was last in the area regularly. One thing that had not changed was the popularity of Oak Creek - the lot was already full by the time we arrived, with a line queued at the gate. We found a parking spot along 89A and walked the guardrail back to the entry, along with a steady stream of others. The water levels were low enough to keep feet dry during the numerous crossings, though there were often folk waiting on either side to cross the stream using the low water path.
Unfortunately, thanks in part to the crowds, I managed to misstep on a sand covered slickrock bench and rolled my ankle. A kind passerby offered up an ace wrap, so I put my previous ankle turning experience to good use and wrapped it up. Took a break at an overlook while others in the party went on to the trail end before hobbling back to the trailhead. Was glad to be able to get myself out on my own power, if a bit slowly and with a messed up gait. They took pity on me and fetched the car to save me the roadwalk.
Ankle sprain aside, the views and colors were spectacular. Definitely not a hike for solitude, and especially not on the weekend. My recollection is if you're willing to get wet, the narrows heading up stream are quite beautiful, and you're likely able to escape the crowds by committing to getting in the water...I'll have to head back up that way again and see if my recollection is correct. |
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Autumn Foliage Observation Substantial
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Happier when hiking....I may not move fast (and I'm often distracted by wildflowers), but I'll get there eventually  |
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