Wilson Canyon Trail #49, AZ

If you're looking for a fun little kid friendly hike just outside of Sedona, the Wilson Canyon Trail may fit the bill. This is a very easy hike amongst the red rocks and junipers, barely miles from downtown Sedona. While there's no surprise waterfalls and no breathtaking finish, you do get treated to some great views of the cliffs, canyons, and red rocks that make Oak Creek Canyon such a magical place.


The trail starts off at the Midgely Bridge parking area. Just walk straight past the Huckeby trail on the left and the Wilson Mountain trail on the right and head up the canyon. The going is very easy, and there's quite a bit of shade. The trail crosses a creek bed 5 or six times. Even on a warm day in July, there was enough shade to make the walking comfortable. We ran across several families, one even pushing a 3-wheeled stroller. When you reach the end of the official trail (and you'll know it from the HUGE cairn telling you so) look to your right and you'll see a small scramble up to the next ledge. That's where you'll be able to take in the views, so don't pass it up. When you come to a wall, that's pretty much the end of the line. You can scramble up and around the west (left) side of the wall but it really doesn't afford any better views and it's pretty slick with lots of loose rocks.

Return the way you came.

For additional fun and distance you could tack on a hike up to Steamboat Rock or down the Huckeby trail for a dip in Oak Creek.

Check out the Official Route and Triplogs.

Leave No Trace and +Add a Triplog after your hike to support this local community.

2012-07-24 paulhubbard