Marg's Draw Trail

Named for a mule who wandered it to avoid working, this easy trail offers views of the crimson cliffs you'll bray about.

There are three reasons why the Jim Thompson Trail is one of the best hiking spots near Uptown Sedona: Views, views, and views.

The Jim Thompson trailhead sits near Jordan Rd. It's named for the first non-Native American settler in Sedona, but it's got all the modern conveniences; after a renovation this spring, it now boasts more parking spaces, a shuttle stop, rest room, information kiosk and equestrian hitching pole.

Part of the nearly three-mile trail is the former Jim Thompson Rd., which was built by the settler himself in 1887 to connect his home in Oak Creek Canyon with his Sedona homestead. Luckily for modern hikers, ol' Jim had an eye for gorgeous scenery. Along his trail, you will catch picturesque glimpses of Uptown Sedona from above, the Crimson Cliffs, Schnebly Hill, Cibola Ridge, and Oak Creek Canyon. Pine trees intermingle with yuccas; linger awhile to appreciate the rocky crevasses, created by years of erosion, just below the trail. A little more than halfway into your hike you will arrive at the base of the sheer walls of Steamboat Rock. Just below this landmark, at about the two-mile mark, look for Steamboat Tank off to your left, a watering hole for cattle that may or may not be wet, depending on the calendar. A short path leads to the edge of the tank for further exploration.

The trail is relatively level and wide with a short uphill section at the beginning (providing the views), easy enough for the entire family. Jim Thompson Trail ends at an intersection with Wilson Canyon Trail. From here, you can turn around to go back to the trailhead; turn left to hike into Wilson Canyon; or turn right and go a half-mile to Midgley Bridge in Oak Creek Canyon.

DIRECTIONS: From Hwy 89A, turn left onto Jordan Rd. and follow it until it ends at Park Ridge Dr. Turn left onto Park Ridge Dr. and continue on a dirt road to the Jim Thompson Trailhead lot. A Red Rock Pass is required to park your car.

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

Sitemap

Internet Marketing by North Star Direct Marketing