Bear Mountain Sedona

I took my first trip to SEDONA a few weeks ago and I was pleasantly surprised by my experience and will be returning for additional hikes and some advance Climbs. I will say when you drive into Sedona it is a little overwhelming with a vast array of Rock Formations and a trail head at every turn. Just like the followers of this page I too turned to the Internet to find what I thought would best match my goals with the time allotted.

The iconic picture of Devils Bridge in Sedona is a breath taking site, but in my travels I try to to take on the path less traveled and accomplish what few are willing to attempt. One trail that caught my eye was Bear Mountain. When I do a search for hikes or climbs near me it usually looks something like "most difficult hikes Sedona" or something of that nature. I wouldn't classify Bear Mountain as "Most Difficult" for the physically fit, but I would say you better come prepared. I have spent my life walking outdoors in my personal and professional life so when I showed up to the trail head I ignored the suggestion of a gallon of water and I figured if it said it would be a day trip to the top that for me that meant half a day. I will say that I held true to my own expectations but I will say it was not an ideal plan.

The climb is well marked for the first few miles and offers amazing views. I would say that I kept on the move and still was barely able to complete the trip to the summit and back in half of a day, and I had some regrets on the climb down when the quart of water I brought was long in the rearview. I would say this trail is a 100% add to your list if you go to Sedona, but I would advise even if you consider yourself fit that you bring an appropriate amount of water and are prepared to spend some time on the trail. Its unfortunate but on every difficult hike I have ever been on I have passed that person either hanging on for there life on a vertical climb or sprawled out from physical exhaustion. You don't want that to be you.