"Wilson Mountain was named for Richaard Wilson, who was mauled and killed by a grizzly bear in 1885." (http://thehikehouse.com/?s=wilson+mountain)
This trail was recommended by my friend Paul Pastore who has hiked extensively in Sedona. This trail offers the best views I ever seen of Sedona. Paul and I hiked this trail Saturday morning, March 17, 2012, St. Patrick's Day.
"Wilson Mountain is the highest mountain in the area, topping out at 7,122 feet. The trail climbs the cliffs from the 6,200-foot First Bench of Wilson Moutain up to the top of the mountain, with incredible overlooks on both the north rim and the south rim. The hike is a continuation of the First Bench trails (North Wilson Trail and Wilson Mountain to the First Bench). The mountaintop is covered with basaltic lava flows that date back 5 million years ago. From the summit are bird’s eye views of the entire area from 3,000 feet above the city of Sedona. The 360-views include the Verde Valley to the south, the San Francisco Peaks to the north, Oak Creek Canyon and the Mogollon Rim to the east, and the Red Rock Country to the west. (http://thehikehouse.com/?s=wilson+mountain)
Depending on which source you refer to this trail is anywhere from 3.7 to 5.3 miles one way. We took our time and enjoyed the views along the way. We saw no other people on the way up and approx. 10 people on the way down. This trail is considered difficult or strenuous due to the length and elevation gain of 2400'. See this short youtube video of this trail:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r9Gkd0sH61I
Sedona, Az
Wilson Mountain Trail
www.efmer.eu/trails
Wilson Mountain Trail
www.efmer.eu/trails
Lisa is acclimating to climbing Pike's Peak over the Labor Day weekend. Her progress & conditioning are stellar. On this hike she only asked 3 times: "Are we getting close?".
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