The trail that leads up Bear Mountain may only be 2.5 miles one way, but it’s easily one of the most difficult hikes in Sedona. There’s little to no shade, so if hiking this trail is on your bucket list, the cooler months are the time to do it. The trail begins across Boynton Pass Road from the Bear Mountain and Doe Mountain parking lot. You’ll first hike across flat, cactus-studded terrain, but don’t let that fool you – things are going to get much harder. You’ll come upon a hiker’s register 0.12 mile into the hike, and you’ll start gaining elevation 0.3 mile from the trailhead. The Bear Mountain Trail climbs more than 2,000 feet in about 2 miles.
We enjoy this first climb the most because the rocky and steep trail hugs the side of a red rock cliff. It gives you the chance to get up close to an interesting rock face riddled with holes from water and wind erosion. Because this section is so steep, watch your footing. Less than a half-mile into your hike, you’ll reach a secluded alcove. Pause and look behind you for views of Capitol Butte and the edge of the Seven Canyons area. From the alcove, turn left and continue to climb over boulders and loose rock. After about 0.75 mile, you’ll be able to see the top of Courthouse Butte, the spire of Chimney Rock and the expanse of the Verde Valley.
The views continue to improve the further you climb. The trail winds its way into a small canyon before making one last steep push and then leveling out for a while. Look in front of you, and you’ll see another mountain in the distance; its summit is your final destination. Many hikers choose to end their hike here, 1.25 miles from the trailhead. If not, you’ll meander through a landscape of prickly pear cactus and juniper trees with beautiful views of Faye Canyon toward the northeast. About 2 miles from where you started your hike, the trail makes another heart-pounding climb. When you do reach the top, your views extend all the way to the San Francisco Peaks and Red Canyon. It’s definitely worth the effort… and it’s all downhill from there.
