Twin Pillars Trail

A ridge too far? It’s just a one-mile walk/climb on this trail to a perch with terrific views of Lee’s Mountain and the Verde Valley School grounds

It’s no mystery how Twin Pillars Trail, west of the Village of Oak Creek, got its name – the two-mile round-trip hike peacefully meanders toward two big red rock buttes before climbing to a saddle between the buttes and two tall pillars. The gold at the end of the trail: fantastic views of Lee’s Mountain and the grounds of Verde Valley School.

The hike begins at the end of Verde Valley School Road off FR 9216B at the Turkey Creek trailhead. (Only high-clearance vehicles can park at the trailhead; others should park at the turnout to the left immediately after turning onto FR 9216B and walk the half-mile or so to the trailhead.) Begin your trek on Turkey Creek Trail – at the fork, follow the path on your left. The trail narrows to a single track; it’s frequently used by horses. Keep an eye open for deer, coyote, and javelina tracks, too. Aside from some interesting washes and gnarled juniper trees, this part of the trail is unexceptional until it begins to gently climb to the base of the buttes. It’s not a difficult climb but some of the rocks are loose so watch your footing.

After one mile you’ll come out on a flat ridge with the base of the buttes on your left and the Twin Pillars on your right. From here you’ll have excellent views of the red rocks and the Verde Valley School campus; hike in the late afternoon and see the rocks glow from the setting sun. Some thoughtful soul even built a bench on the ridge. It’s possible to explore the ridge and even climb to a point between the two buttes, but be sure to watch your footing! The spot is popular for rock climbing enthusiasts and students at the private school below; look for pitons in the pillars and try to discern climbing routes. As far as we can tell, it’s not possible to climb to the Twin Pillars, but the buttes are beauts, even from a distance. •

DIRECTIONS: Go south on Hwy 179 to the Village of Oak Creek. Turn right on Verde Valley School Rd., and follow it as it turns to dirt road. Turn left on FR 9216B (look for the sign directing you toward Turkey Creek and Turkey Tank). The trail begins at the Turkey Creek trailhead. A Red Rock Pass is required for parking and passes are not sold at the trailhead.

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