postcard courtesy Curt Teich Postcard Archives

Cut into the brightly colored canyon walls, State Route 89A snakes through Oak Creek Canyon just north of Sedona. Towering red rocks, sprinkles of greenery from ponderosa pines and cottonwood trees, and splashes of colorful wildflowers fuse together to create views that have enticed hikers, bikers and road-trippers throughout the years. In fact, these views earned the 15-mile stretch of 89A the title of “Scenic Road” in 1984 by the Arizona Department of Transportation.

Traveling through Oak Creek Canyon in Coconino National Forest has provided a popular and picturesque route long before 89A opened in 1914. Once a cattle path, the hooves of livestock blazed one of the first trails through the canyon. Rattling wagon wheels carrying people between Flagstaff and Sedona soon replaced the clatter of hooves.

Today you can revel in the same views, sans cattlemen and horse carriages, from behind the driver’s wheel, via Oak Creek’s hiking trails, or by taking advantage of the area’s campgrounds. At least three overnight campgrounds scattered throughout the canyon are open all year, but reserve a spot early because the crystal waters of Oak Creek draw crowds. Or spend the day picnicking and swimming at one of the many day use-sites, like Grasshopper Point.

For more information on Arizona’s Scenic Roads, visit arizonascenicroads.com/main.aspx.