Chimney Rock Trail

At the risk of confusing Santa, gifts await hikers who go up our Chimney: trailside flowers, scurrying wildlife and smokin' views.

We're not just blowing smoke when we call Chimney Rock one of Sedona's most distinctive landmarks. Centuries of erosion carved the lofty obelisk out of a larger mountain of red stone; looking skyward from below, it loses the chimney effect that's inescapable from a distance. In fact, as you make your way around the mountain, it looks completely different on every side, making this one surprising hike!

There are two trails to choose from at Chimney Rock. The lower road heads toward Thunder Mountain. Take the upper trail, which is pictured here, and you'll circle around and up Chimney Rock. It's not a difficult hike, and it is a very pretty one; purple, orange, red, yellow and white wildflowers sprout along the path in spring and early summer. You'll also see lots of fluttering butterflies, soaring birds and scurrying lizards as you go.

But the real pleasures are the dreamy views: sweeping eyefuls of The Cockscomb, Boynton Canyon, Capital Butte and Uptown Sedona all along the way.

DIRECTIONS: Take 89A south of the "Y," turn right on Dry Creek Rd., and drive to the intersection with Thunder Mountain Rd. Turn right, and follow the road approximately .6 miles to the parking area on the left. A Red Rock Pass is required for parking.

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

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