Arizona's Coconino
National Forest is a very popular destination for Arizona leaf-lookers. Oak
Creek Canyon is one of the more popular destinations, partly because of its
convenient proximity to Flagstaff, I-40 and I-17. The season for autumn leaves starts
in late September and extends well into October depending upon how high or low
your gaze. Highway 89-A which extends south from Flagstaff, can get bumper to
bumber on weekends so take turns driving so all can see... safely.
From Flagstaff,
take Highway 89-A South, traveling through the canyon area, to Sedona. A gravel,
but well maintained road, will take you from Sedona, East to I-17 exit 320. I
you have the time and would like to extend your drive, continue on 89-A all the
way to Prescott (about 65 kiles). From Prescott you can take Highway 89 north
back to I-40 exit 146, or 69 South to I-17 exit 262.
An alternate return
route to I-17 is Highway 179 which also will bless you with beautiful color.
This route connects to I-17 at exit 298. This happens to be very near Rimrock
and Montezuma Well, Montezuma Castle National Monument and Beaver Creek
Recreation Area.
There are many
interesting things in and around Flagstaff. For some suggestions, visit what-where.info.)
Most accommodations are 'booked
up' during the fall leaf viewing season. If you haven't made your hotel/motel reservations yet we
have included access to an on-line hotel reservation system for your convenience.
