Huckaby Trail is a favorite hike among locals and tourists alike, so it’s no surprise that it was suffering from too much love. Originally constructed in 1998, the trail was rerouted at the end of last year, says Jennifer Burns, recreation staff officer for the Red Rock Ranger District. The new section of the trail offers unique views of Uptown and Oak Creek Canyon. “I think this actually makes the trail easier,” says Jennifer. “Aside from that, we rerouted the trail in order to remove a segment that was unsustainable due to erosion problems.”
With these changes in mind, we decided to revisit one of our favorite hikes. Though we usually start at the Midgley Bridge Trailhead, we decided to mix it up and start the hike at the trailhead on Schnebly Hill Road. Huckaby Trail quickly descends into a dry wash through a series of switchbacks, and then just as quickly climbs back out of it. As you ascend, look to your left for stellar views of Snoopy Rock. During our hike, wildflowers were blooming along the trail. We reached the rerouted section shortly after the climb leveled out; .72 mile from the trailhead, you’ll find a bench at a new vista where you can sit and enjoy views of Uptown and Oak Creek.
Not too far from the bench, the trail merges with the old path, and soon it parallels SR 89A through Oak Creek Canyon. Before descending into the canyon, you’ll see Steamboat Rock on your left. Wilson Mountain, the tallest peak in Sedona at 7,122 feet, towers above Steamboat Rock. About 2 miles into the hike, you’ll reach the floor of Oak Creek Canyon. Continue walking, and you’ll find yourself practically underneath impressive Midgley Bridge. You’re walking along Oak Creek now. At this time of the year, keep an eye out for ripe blackberries. Quaint beaches tempt you to take a quick dip in the cool water. The trail crosses the creek twice and then makes a steep climb up to the bridge. We like to leave a second car at the bridge or at nearby Grasshopper Point. There’s a short (.3-mile) trail that connects Huckaby with the Grasshopper Point parking lot (you’ll see the trail on your right, 3 miles from the start of your hike). Grasshopper Point Day Use Area features one of the best swimming holes in Oak Creek Canyon. A one-way hike from Schnebly Hill Road to Grasshopper Point is 3.6 miles. Hiking to the Midgley Bridge Trailhead is a little more than 3 miles, one way.
MORE SEDONA HIKES: 10 favorite hikes, Sedona Day hikes, Mt. Humphreys
