Oak Creek Canyon is a scenic river gorge in northern Arizona between Flagstaff and Sedona, known for dramatic walls, year-round water, and striking exposed rock layers. Shaped by both erosion and movement along the Oak Creek Fault, it preserves evidence of an ancestral canyon formed millions of years ago and a later canyon carved by Oak Creek, a perennial tributary of the Verde River. Much of the canyon lies within Coconino National Forest, with protected wilderness, popular trails, campgrounds, swimming, and fishing. Slide Rock State Park and the West Fork Trail are major attractions. Recent wildfires, including the Brins Fire and Slide Fire, also reshaped the canyon and prompted new emergency warning systems.