Power Plunge Trail, AZ

Overview
The Power Plunge Trail is one of eight new trails that were created when the Adobe Jack TH was created in 2016. This TH is directly off the 89A just past Mariposa Grill. There is enough parking for only 5 vehicles. There is no fee for parking at this TH. A hotel has recently been built that is directly adjacent to this parking area. Kind of an odd medley of high-end traveling and backyard hiking. Actually, it looks like an ideal marriage if you are ok with city hiking. It doesn’t get much more convenient than this. At the TH there is a great map of the Sedona trail system as well as a localized map of the Adobe Jack (Soldier Wash Trails). There is also a bike repair station which is becoming a common theme with some of the more established Arizona THs. Since this trailhead's initial founding, they have expanded the amenities. In addition to the maps and bike station, they have added a drinking fountain, a port-a-jon, a couple of benches, and a dog station (plastic bags to collect your canine’s contribution to the trail hazards).


Hike
The Power Plunge Trail is an interior trail so some additional hiking is required. To reach the Power Plunge hike in 0.94 miles on the Adobe Jack Trail. The juncture will be signed and have a trail map of the localized trails. The trail starts from a high point and heads off in a northeast direction. The name “power plunge” makes you think that there is going to be a dramatic drop, but the trail only loses about 40 feet and very gradually at that. By 0.1 miles the trail has flattened out and reaches its first trail juncture with the Manzanita Trail. Surprisingly, except for a few minor ups and downs, the trail will hold its elevation for the next 0.25 miles. During this time, there will be a brief opportunity for bikes to enjoy some “banking”. And then at 0.24 miles, the Power Plunge will connect to the Shorty Trail.At 0.33 a small valley comes into view and the trail slowly descends into it. This trail is fairly exposed with minimal tree coverage. However, this allows for some fantastic distant views for most of the hike. As you descend into the valley you get some great views to the east and south. At 0.45 the trail junctures with the Grand Central Trail. Immediately after, it reaches its low point as it crosses a small wash. From here the trail follows a moderate, but at times rocky incline as it climbs out of the valley. Views are solid on the climb out, both near and far as you can appreciate nature’s artistic talents with both wood and stone. It becomes obvious that this is the section that provides the trail’s name Power Plunge.

At 0.64 the trail crosses a small rock shelf and then, continuing northeast, climbs briefly, before ending when it connects with the Javelina Trail. This juncture is signed and has a map showing the interaction of the trails. At this point, your options are wide open. Using the trail map you can map out a greater adventure by following the Javelina Trail north or if you are looking for a shorter hike (about 3 miles), you can take the Javelina Trail south and connect to the Crusty Trail to get back to the TH.

Synopsis
This is a nice trail for those interested in a short hike. It provides an ideal loop with the Adobe Jack and Javelina/Crusty Trails for a 3-mile loop. The trail retains a relatively high profile so the distant views are nice for very little effort, though the signs of civilization are evident for much of the hike. For hikers, this is a nice trail in either direction, but for bikers, the ideal direction would be north to south. This trail also provides access to more “interior” hiking. The Jordan Trail is just a short distance past its northern terminus which leads to the Devil’s Kitchen and some more lengthy trails.

2024-08-08 mt98dew