4 fantastic Sedona hikes to beat the crowds
Alec Sills-TrauschAs red rock country gets more crowded, the most popular trails offer no relief from the swarms of people out and about. Due to this, it’s time to find the best Sedona hikes with fewer people to enjoy some peace out in nature. These four Sedona hiking trails will still give you amazing views of Sedona, but you usually don’t see the crowds due to being somewhat more challenging or less known.
Best Sedona Hikes – Less Crowded
Wilson Mountain – Hard
This is one of the best Sedona hike. At around 8 miles round trip, it gets you to the highest point in the area and has some gnarly rock views. It’s also one of the best places to backpack, though there isn’t any water – so you’ll have to bring enough for an overnight. This, however, is also a strenuous hike, and I wouldn’t recommend it during the summer months or to those in below-average shape. Parking for the Wilson Mountain hike is also disastrous, so plan to get there real early or for sunset.
Bear Mountain – Hard
At 4.5 miles round trip, this hike gets you up fast, but it’s great if you need a good sweat. This is one of the furthest hikes from Sedona, meaning you’ll have it primarily to yourself. However, the views on top are incredible, as you can see below, and well worth the summit push! For Sedona hiking trails, you can’t go wrong here.
Boyton Canyon – Moderate
The Boyton Canyon Trail eventually gets you into the wilderness and seclusion near the uber-expensive Enchantments Resort. It’s a surprisingly green hike with excellent views – if you can find them. Update: This has become more crowded due to the Sedona Subway Cave. However, if you go past that, you’ll be away from the Sedona hiking trails crowd.
Doe Mountain – Easy/Moderate
The hike up to the plateau is quite simple and pretty short. You’ll wind up switchbacks for a mile, with Bear Mountain looking at you from across the way. Once at the top, you can explore where you please. This is one of the best Sedona hikes for sunset.
Until next time adventurers, take care and be safe.
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