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    Hikes/United States/Arizona/Sedona

    North Wilson Mountain Trail

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Hard
    Duration
    This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
    5-7h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    15.3 km
    Elevation
    This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
    804 m
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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    If the plentiful easy and moderate trails in Sedona aren’t giving you the challenge you want, add Wilson Mountain to your list. This is the tallest mountain in Sedona, so the 15.3 km hike to the top is about as intense as it gets in this part of Arizona. This route follows the North Wilson Trail from the Encinoso Picnic Area, which is different from the traditional Wilson Mountain Trail but a bit shorter. The view is incredible and there aren’t any significant technical challenges involved. Expect heavy traffic on this hard trail.

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    Route Description for North Wilson Mountain Trail

    As the tallest mountain in the vicinity of Sedona, Wilson Mountain is the perfect pick for hikers who want to push themselves to discover awesome views. This hike is strenuous, but it’s not technically demanding, making it suitable for adventurous intermediates. If you find the summit to be a bit too much, the First Bench of Wilson Mountain is a good place to turn around that still offers a rewarding vantage point.

    This hike can get very hot. If you’re hiking in the summertime, we strongly recommend starting as early in the morning as you can to avoid the intense heat. Bring lots of water and a windbreaker for the top.

    The hike begins at the picnic area. The first two miles are no joke as you push up to First Bench. This is the most strenuous section. After the last switchback, take a minute to appreciate the view before crossing over to Wilson Mountain via a short, steep climb. From here, marvel at the view of Sedona’s magical red rocks.

    You can either turn back for the viewpoint or follow the rest of the route to the actual summit if you want to ensure you hit the highest part.

    Getting to the North Wilson Mountain Trail Trailhead

    The trailhead for the North Wilson Mountain Trail is at the Eoncinoso Picnic Area off State Route 89A.

    Route Information

    • Backcountry Campground

      No

    • When to do

      March-November

    • Pets allowed

      Yes - On Leash

    • Family friendly

      No

    • Route Signage

      Average

    • Crowd Levels

      Extreme

    • Route Type

      Out and back

    North Wilson Mountain Trail Elevation Graph

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    North Wilson Mountain Trail Reviews

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