Parts Of Arizona’s Oak Creek Canyon Were Closed Due To Unprecedented Flooding

Editor’s note: Per the Arizona Department of Transportation, State Route 89a between Sedona and Flagstaff reopened at approximately 8:30 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023.

Spring snowmelt can create treacherous conditions in Arizona's Oak Creek Canyon - especially when combined with rain. The creek's water level rose dramatically in the days following the arrival of spring, leading to multiple road closures and evacuation orders from the City of Sedona. Here are some photos from the Oak Creek Canyon flooding event, as well as what impacts are still being felt in the area:

Located in the Sedona area, Oak Creek Canyon is arguably one of the most scenic places in Arizona. Between its stunning red rocks, lush greenery, and pristine, flowing waters, it's no wonder the region is beloved by both locals and tourists.

Oak Creek Canyon may be beautiful, but it can also pose an extreme danger. Seasonal weather events such as spring snowmelt and summer monsoons can quickly turn the peaceful stream into a raging torrent...which is exactly what happened on Tuesday, March 21.

Just one day after spring officially began, the waters of Oak Creek began rising at an alarming rate. The water level crested at 13.2 feet in the early morning hours of Wednesday, March 22, and the City of Sedona issued an evacuation order for vulnerable areas in close proximity to the creek.

The Sedona Shuttle suspended service to the Cathedral Rock trailhead due to flood risk...

...and several roadways, including State Routes 74 and 377 as well as State Route 89A, were closed because of unsafe driving conditions.

While creek levels have substantially lowered and State Routes 74 and 377 have since reopened, State Route 89A between Sedona and Flagstaff (MP 375-398) remains closed due to rockslides. The Arizona Department of Transportation has not issued an estimated timeline for when the road may reopen.

The City of Sedona advises all residents and travelers to pay attention to the forecast and heed warnings from the National Weather Service. Conditions can change at a moment's notice - especially during snowmelt season, when just a bit of extra rain can create life-threatening conditions along Oak Creek.

To keep up with the status of State Route 89A, please visit the Arizona Department of Transportation website. Visit the City of Sedona's Facebook page for the latest information about impending weather events/evacuation orders for the Oak Creek Canyon area.

Were you in the area for this Oak Creek Canyon flooding event? Tell us in the comments, and give our previous article a read to learn about why State Route 89A is one of the best scenic drives in Arizona. It will give you something to look forward to when the road reopens!