Allens Bend Trail

Route Description for Allens Bend Trail

Allens Bend Trail is a great family-friendly adventure that starts from the Grasshopper Point Picnic Area. This hike takes you along Oak Creek and offers the option to continue hiking through Casner Canyon if you want a bit more of a challenge and more distance. If not, you can just take this easy, quick walk to admire the beauty of the creek and the cliffside that flanks it.

This trail is beautiful, even if it doesn’t have the same dramatic sightlines that others in Sedona do. The flowing creek, the juniper trees, the red rocks, it’s very pretty. This hike is especially good if you’re wanting to enjoy fall colors, so definitely swing by if you’re in Sedona in late September and early October.

The picnic area hugs the creek and offers a nice swimming hole. Spend some time enjoying it either before or after your hike. The water is aqua and you’ll feel sheltered by the red canyon walls.
There is a modest fee required to access Grasshopper Point and a Red Rock pass won’t be valid. Since it’s a short hike, it’s a good idea to pack a picnic and spend some time at the point before hiking to get your money’s worth.

The trail isn’t always well-marked, but when in doubt, follow the river. The route generally sits between the cliff wall and the water. While you might be tempted to jump in, take care to pick a part of the creek that isn’t flowing quickly and know that it could be chilly!

From the picnic area, take the trail that heads roughly north along Oak Creek. Stroll next to the canyon walls with the water on your right. Check out the juniper trees and other unique plant life in the area. The desert has a fascinating array of flora and fauna and it diversifies the closer you are to a water source.

The trail crosses Oak Creek when you’re across from the mouth of Casner Canyon. You can either cross over and continue into the canyon or turn back here and return to your swimming hole and picnic spot.

Trail Highlights

Oak Creek

Oak Creek and the Oak Creek Canyon are defining elements of Sedona’s landscape. The river and the gorge stretch between Flagstaff and Sedona, and the gorge is recognized as a “smaller cousin of the Grand Canyon” thanks to its beauty. The canyon ranges from 244 m to 610 m tall and is about 19.3 km long. Oak Creek is mostly responsible for carving the gorge over many years.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Grasshopper Point free?

There is a modest fee to access this area. Your Red Rock pass won’t cover admission into this area.

Is Grasshopper Point a hike?

Grasshopper Point is an area in the Oak Creek Canyon that is used for swimming, picnicking, fishing, and hiking.