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Bear Mountain Trail: Sedona's Strenuous Skyline Hike

Conquer Sedona's Bear Mountain Trail for panoramic red rock views and an unforgettable hiking challenge.

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Bear Mountain Trail is a challenging yet rewarding 5-mile hike near Sedona, Arizona, known for its steep climbs and panoramic views. The trail ascends nearly 2,000 feet, offering stunning vistas of red rock formations, Fay Canyon, and even the San Francisco Peaks.

A brief summary to Bear Mountain Trail - Oski Approach/Doe Mountain Parking

  • Sedona, Arizona, 86336, US
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Start your hike early or later in the day to avoid heat and crowds, especially during peak tourist seasons.
  • Bring plenty of water (3-4 liters per person), salty snacks, and electrolyte drinks to stay hydrated and maintain energy.
  • Wear sturdy hiking boots with good traction and ankle support due to the steep and rocky terrain.
  • Purchase a Red Rock Pass for parking at the trailhead. Alternatively, use an America the Beautiful Pass.
  • Follow the white trail markers carefully, as the path can be difficult to follow in some sections.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Uptown Sedona, drive northwest on State Route 89A. Turn right onto Dry Creek Road and continue for approximately 2.7 miles. Turn left onto Boynton Pass Road and drive for another 1.5 miles. Finally, turn left onto Forest Road 152C and continue for 1.2 miles to the Bear Mountain/Doe Mountain parking area on the left. Parking requires a Red Rock Pass, which costs $5 per day and can be purchased at the trailhead. Be aware that the parking lot often fills up by 8 AM, but roadside parking is available.

  • Walking

    From the Bear Mountain/Doe Mountain parking area, cross Boynton Pass Road to reach the Bear Mountain Trailhead. Look for the gate and sign confirming you are on the Bear Mountain Trail. Be sure to cross the road, as the trail starting directly from the parking lot leads to Doe Mountain. There are no additional costs for accessing the trail on foot from the parking area.

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Discover more about Bear Mountain Trail - Oski Approach/Doe Mountain Parking

The Bear Mountain Trail, designated as Trail #54 in the Coconino National Forest, presents a strenuous but unforgettable hiking experience in Sedona's Red Rock Country. This 5-mile out-and-back trail ascends to 6,463 feet above sea level, making it the second-highest point in Sedona with an official trail to the summit. The trail is well-marked with signs, cairns (stacked rocks), and blazes (painted marks). The ascent involves four distinct uphill sections, each offering increasingly breathtaking views. Even though it's rated as strenuous, hikers can modify their experience by turning around at the top of any uphill section. Those who reach the summit are rewarded with panoramic views of Fay Canyon and the surrounding red rock landscape. The summit also offers views of San Francisco Mountain, the highest point in Arizona. Bear Mountain Trail provides a diverse hiking experience with changing scenery and terrain. The lower elevations feature red Schnebly Hill sandstone, while the higher elevations showcase orange-brown Coconino sandstone. The trail crosses meadows with cacti and junipers before ascending steep, rocky slopes. While the summit is covered in trees and bushes, it still offers fine views. To the west, vistas encompass colorful Red Canyon, Casner Mountain, and Black Mountain.

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