Wilson Canyon Trail

A grisly tale claimed the area’s namesake; today, the
views bear closer inspection

We can predict with almost total certainty that you will have a better time hiking Wilson Canyon Trail than did Richard Wilson himself. In 1885, the last time the Oak Creek Canyon hunter crossed the canyon that now bears his name, he met a rather, well, grisly end. Encountering a grizzly, Wilson shot and wounded the animal with a small-caliber rifle. But rather than hiking quickly in the opposite direction, Wilson advanced in hopes of scoring a kill. Unfortunately for him, the bear won round two decisively.

It probably isn’t much solace for Mr. Wilson, but for his trouble his name was memorialized on a trail that offers today’s hikers awe-inspiring views, even after losing 4,200 acres in last June’s Brins fire, which forced the canyon’s closure until September 2006. Almost a year later, we saw little evidence of the fire. As you climb out of the canyon, Wilson Mountain – at over 7,122 ft., it’s Sedona’s highest peak – stands before you with its sheer peach-colored walls and black volcanic crust. You can see signs of the fire at the top of the mountain and some damaged trees where the mountain slopes down to the canyon, but the visible damage does nothing to detract from the area’s beauty.

The shade-covered trail – perfect for a summer hike – begins at the back of the Midgely Bridge parking area in Oak Creek Canyon (Midgely Bridge spans the mouth of Wilson Canyon). The trail begins as an old road, flat and wide, before leading you into the canyon and across its floor a dozen times. You’ll see piñon pines, cypresses, junipers, yuccas, and sugar sumacs. After about 1-1/4 miles, the trail climbs out of the canyon for the best views. Wilson Mountain stands in front of you; turn around for memorable views of Oak Creek Canyon and the red rocks of Schnebly Hill.

The trail ends at a large red knob at about 1-1/2-miles. There is no official route to the top – where you’ll see great views of Wilson Mountain and some interesting red rock spires and fins sprouting from the canyon floor – and loose rock and prickly brush make for tough going, so climb at your own risk and watch where you place your hands; critters seek shelter in the rock crevices. It won’t be a bear, but it’s still a tussle you’d rather not face, and no one will name anything after you when you lose. •

DIRECTIONS: Go north on Hwy 89A to Oak Creek Canyon. Turn left into the Midgely Bridge Parking Lot. A Red Rock Pass is required for parking. Passes are for sale in the parking lot.

© 2006-2007 Bar225 Media Ltd. All rights reserved.

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