Wilson Canyon Trail #49, AZ

Wilson Canyon Trail #49 is an easy hike amongst the red rocks and junipers, barely miles from downtown Sedona. While there's no surprise waterfalls and no stunning 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. If you're looking for a fun little kid-friendly hike just outside of Sedona, this may fit the bill.

Hike
The trail starts at the Midgely Bridge parking area. Just walk straight past the Huckaby Trail on the left and the Wilson Mountain Trail #10 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 five 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 doesn't afford any better views, and it's pretty slick with lots of loose rocks.

Return the way you came.

You could tack on a hike up to Steamboat Rock or down the Huckaby Trail #161 for a dip in Oak Creek for additional fun and distance.

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