1.7 km away
Sterling Pass to Vultee Arch
A lightly-populated Sedona route that's a must-do hike in the fall.
Severe Hiking
- Distance
- 6.4 km
- Ascent
- 638 m
- Descent
- 638 m
A view-heavy hike to the highest point in the Sedona area
Hiking Difficult
The 10.5-mile roundtrip Wilson Mountain North Trail hike, including both the Sedona Overlook and the North Overlook options, begins at the Encinoso Picnic Area. Parking here requires a recreation pass (either a Red Rock Pass or a Federal Interagency Pass).
An alternate, and more populated route utilizes the Wilson Canyon Trail from the Midgley Bridge trailhead, but for a stunningly-gorgeous, less populated trek, Wilson Mountain North Trail is the prime choice.
Fall is definitely the best season for this hike; the route provides the full palette of Sedona's autumn colors as it wends its way up the canyon. Though long in mileage, the elevation gain of 2,200' feels relatively easy as the well-built trail ascends 3 miles. In addition, the constant views and diversity of environments keep one engaged. Look carefully, and you may just see a tarantula on the trail!
At the top, there is a sign indicating that the Sedona Overlook trail goes left. The 1/2-mile diversion is highly recommended for a spectacular view of Sedona nestled among red rock formations down below. The extra mileage is flat and easy to cover.
Once back at the sign, continue on for the 2-mile flat walk to the North Overlook. As with the earlier portion of the hike, there are frequent reminders of a past wildfire. The blackened trees are beautiful in their own way. Like most other “mountains” in the Sedona area, there is no obvious “summit”; the entire huge flat area is labeled “Wilson Mountain”.
At the north edge of Wilson Mountain, spend some time enjoying the views of the Sterling Pass area below. Then, find one of many lovely lunch spots and refuel before heading back.
The return trip is every bit as beautiful as the hike in, as the later daylight intensifies the colors of the canyon walls in the Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness. Savor the long day of solitude as you pass the numerous hikers who chose the alternate route and who skipped the North Overlook option.
Difficult
Hiking trails where obstacles such as rocks or roots are prevalent. Some obstacles can require care to step over or around. At times, the trail can be worn and eroded. The grade of the trail is generally quite steep, and can often lead to strenuous hiking.
1.7 km away
A lightly-populated Sedona route that's a must-do hike in the fall.
Severe Hiking
6.3 km away
A fantastic 5-mile loop around Brin's Butte.
Difficult Hiking
6.3 km away
Hike and scramble to one of the most beautiful caves in Sedona.
Severe Hiking
6.6 km away
A hike that follows an exciting expert-level mountain bike route.
Severe Hiking
7.3 km away
This short, steep route is a rare Sedona hike providing solitude.
Severe Hiking
8.7 km away
Gorgeous loop around Airport Butte offering spectacular views of the valley.
Moderate Hiking
8.7 km away
Hike to arguably Sedona's most famous tourist site.
Moderate Hiking
9 km away
Hike to a beautiful and wildly-popular overlook.
Difficult Hiking
14 routes · Hiking