A rustic wooden Coconino National Forest Oak Creek Viewpoint sign surrounded by tall ponderosa pines in northern Arizona.
Points of Interest

Oak Creek Vista

The pullout view that stops traffic on the drive to Sedona

(3,455)
Flagstaff, AZ

About

Oak Creek Vista is the roadside overlook where Highway 89A crests the Mogollon Rim and gives you the first real look down into Oak Creek Canyon — a dramatic pause on the winding drive between Flagstaff and Sedona. It's earned a 4.8 rating from over 3,400 Google reviews, which is a remarkable score for a simple pullout, and it's easy to see why once you're standing at the rail.

What you'll find

The overlook sits right where the highway begins its switchback descent, so you get sweeping views of the canyon's red-rock walls and forested slopes, plus a clear look at the road winding down below. Reviewers consistently mention the elevation drop is dramatic — one described climbing "3,000 feet" of terrain visible from the rim, calling the view "beautiful and terrifying at the same time." There's a paved walking path along the rim for different vantage points, along with restrooms that reviewers note are kept clean.

Good to know

  • Hours: open daily, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
  • Location: AZ-89A, between Flagstaff and Sedona, near the top of the Oak Creek Canyon switchbacks
  • On site: native vendors often sell handmade jewelry and crafts near the parking area

Most people spend 15-20 minutes here — enough time to walk the rim path, get photos, and use the restroom before continuing the drive. It's a natural stop if you're already routing between Flagstaff and Sedona on 89A, not a standalone destination worth a special trip.

Reviews (3,455)

See all on Google
4.8

3,455 reviews

Write a review
Brett
Brett

3 weeks ago

Amazing views, almost like a more green and mini grand canyon. Must stop, but beware there are sellers on the benches that get kinda pushy about buying their stuff. The paved section doesn't go all the way around at the moment. But the gravel leading the full circle to the parking lot is totally walkable and enjoyable. There are a lot of nice trees and logs around as well

Stanley Strycharz
Stanley Strycharz

4 months ago

Oak Creek Vista is an awesome place to stop and see the amazing vista of the canyon and the road winding it's way down. There are also restrooms and native people selling beautiful jewelry and hand crafts. This is worth a stop for sure. Parking is available and there is a nice walk to view many angles of the canyon.

Warren Rafuse
Warren Rafuse

4 months ago

A must stop place along Hwy 89A between Sedona and Flagstaff. It's close to the hairpin and a great place to get fresh air and stretch. But the best part are the amazing views of the valley. Take 15-20 mins and get your cameras out.

Bird
Bird

3 months ago

The views are beyond stunning and beautiful. Gorgeous Native American jewelry was available.

This was a great stop during the drive. Beautiful Vista for good photos, bathroom break and even native vendors selling beautiful jewelry and custom items, like knives and dreamcatchers. Stop by if you're driving hwy 89!

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