Bear Mountain Trailhead, Coconino National Forest Travel Guide

4.9 (9)

Conquer Bear Mountain Trail in Sedona for panoramic red rock views, a challenging climb, and an unforgettable Arizona hiking experience.

The Bear Mountain Trail in Sedona is a strenuous but rewarding hike that ascends to one of the highest peaks in the area. Known for its panoramic views of red rock formations and the distant San Francisco Peaks, the trail offers a challenging climb through diverse geological features and stunning vistas.

A brief summary to Bear Mountain Trailhead

N34 53.602 W111 51.893, Sedona, AZ, 86336, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Bear Mountain Trailhead.

Start early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds, especially during peak tourist season.
Bring plenty of water and wear sun protection, as the trail offers little shade.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good traction due to the rocky and steep terrain.
Purchase a Red Rock Pass online or at the trailhead to park legally.
Follow the white hash marks or cairns carefully to stay on the trail, as it can be easy to wander off course.

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Explore Bear Mountain Trailhead on the Map

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Getting There

Driving

From the intersection of State Route 89A and Dry Creek Road in Sedona, head north on Dry Creek Road. Dry Creek Road becomes Boynton Pass Road; continue on Boynton Pass Road, keeping left at the two T intersections. The Bear Mountain/Doe Mountain Trailhead parking area will be on the left, about 0.75 miles past the Fay Canyon Trailhead. A Red Rock Pass is required for parking; it can be purchased at the trailhead for $5 per day (credit cards only). Parking is limited and the lot often fills by 8 AM; overflow parking is available along the roadside.
Walking

From the Bear Mountain/Doe Mountain Trailhead parking area, cross Boynton Pass Road to the north side. Look for the opening in the metal gate to access the Bear Mountain Trail. Be sure to cross the street, as the trail that starts directly from the parking lot will take you up Doe Mountain.

Discover more about Bear Mountain Trailhead

The Bear Mountain Trail is a demanding yet fulfilling hike that leads to the summit of Bear Mountain, one of the tallest peaks in Sedona, Arizona. This 4.5 to 5.3-mile roundtrip trek is not for the faint of heart, boasting a significant elevation gain of approximately 1,800 to 2,000 feet, earning it a 'strenuous' or 'moderate to hard' rating.As you embark on this trail, prepare for a diverse landscape that transitions from a relatively flat desert terrain to steep, rocky ascents. The path winds through various geological layers, including Schnebly Hill Sandstone, Fort Apache Limestone, and Coconino Sandstone, offering a unique geology lesson along the way. The trail is marked with white hash marks or cairns to guide hikers along the route.The climb is characterized by a series of false summits and challenging scrambles, but each step brings increasingly breathtaking views. From the summit, hikers are rewarded with panoramic vistas of Sedona's iconic red rock formations, deep canyons, and surrounding peaks, including Wilson Mountain, Capitol Butte, and the San Francisco Peaks to the north.While the summit itself is somewhat flat and wooded, it provides a tranquil space to soak in the beauty of the Verde Valley and the surrounding landscapes. Be sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and appropriate hiking gear, as the trail is mostly exposed to the sun and can get very hot, especially during the summer months. A Red Rock Pass is required for parking at the trailhead.