Sedona, Arizona · 0.0 · 0 reviews · Login and be the first to review!
Hike the Wilson Mountain Trail with confidence by using the HiiKER toolkit to help you before your hike and during your hike with the HiiKER app.
The Wilson Mountain Trail is a challenging yet rewarding hike located near Sedona, Arizona, offering panoramic views and a diverse array of flora and fauna. Spanning approximately 19 kilometers (about 11.8 miles) and featuring an elevation gain of around 900 meters (roughly 2953 feet), this loop trail is rated as medium difficulty, making it accessible to hikers with a reasonable level of fitness.
Starting from the trailhead, which is easily accessible by car just north of Sedona off Highway 89A, hikers will embark on a journey that will take them through a variety of landscapes, including dense forested areas, red rock canyons, and high desert terrain. The trail is well-marked, but hikers should consider using the HiiKER app for navigation to ensure they stay on the correct path.
As you ascend Wilson Mountain, the trail will offer increasingly spectacular views of the surrounding red rock formations that Sedona is famous for, including Steamboat Rock and the San Francisco Peaks in the distance. The first few miles are the most strenuous, with switchbacks leading up to the first plateau, where the incline becomes more gradual.
The trail continues to climb, leading to the mountain's summit, where hikers are rewarded with 360-degree views of the Coconino National Forest. The descent follows a similar path back down the mountain, completing the loop.
Along the way, hikers will encounter a variety of plant life, including ponderosa pines, alligator junipers, and scrub oak. Wildlife sightings may include mule deer, javelinas, and a wide range of bird species. The area is also rich in history, with Sedona's early settlers having used the trails for travel and trade.
For those using public transport, options are limited, so it's best to arrange for a taxi or rideshare service from Sedona to the trailhead. If driving, parking is available at the trailhead, but it can fill up quickly, so an early start is recommended.
Hikers should come prepared with plenty of water, especially during the hotter months, as well as sun protection and sturdy hiking boots. It's also advisable to check the weather conditions before setting out, as the trail can become quite challenging in inclement weather.
Remember to respect the natural environment by staying on the trail and practicing Leave No Trace principles. This will help preserve the beauty and ecological integrity of the Wilson Mountain Trail for future generations to enjoy.
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