9.19 Wilson Mountain from the south (breathtaking)

We found this view a 'knockout', only partly up the steep Wilson Mountain trail (Click on a picture for larger size)

A most pleasant peak to relax and enjoy Sedona

Approaching the saddle before final push for the peak

Two weeks ago we climbed on Steamboat Rock, 'sailing' in background (top right corner)

Our son, Gavin, said that you now have sixty hikes in your top ten. There’s some truth in that although we would have not gone higher than forty-five. After all, we don’t wish to exaggerate. On Mother’s Day, we ascended this fabulous mountain from the north—we thought it was outstanding. Today (Friday), from the south, it was probably superior although one could make a good argument either way. Jenni voted the south access as her favorite; we couldn’t decide so we announced we ‘preferred’ both. For a day hike of less than ten miles, actually nine and elevation gain of 2,500 feet, it easily meets the top-ten criteria. Now that we have put that to rest, perhaps we should look at the photographs. Truth be told, it was a spectacular hike.

A 'body coming though the rye'. Why is she brave? Take a look at the picture that follows

Long and thin with a rodent in its mouth as we crossed paths. Fortunately, for the snake, we held the editor back. Who knows what she would have done to the 'poor thing'?

Appears to be lush meadows and valleys

It seems at each place we visit, upon entering the town, we notice a particular mountain that appeals to us. It’s almost as if it beckons, “C’mon up and see us sometime,” to quote a madam of the past. When we looked at the saddle and peak of Wilson some three weeks ago, if not a mutual attraction, we certainly knew that we had to find our way up there. Of course, the visuals are a major attraction. However, as our editor put it so succinctly, the challenge to get to the top overrides all considerations, from our perspective.

On return along the edge, providing wonderful exposure

Sedona perspective—Cathedral Rock at left rear, airport runway on right as viewed from Mt. Wilson—The airport is positioned at quite an altitude itself.

We left early in order to avoid the heat as well as for another reason. It turned out to be the coolest day since arriving in Sedona—warmer clothes would have be more suitable. The gusting winds detracted from the experience but only slightly. The beauty from the summit is stunning. In addition, the trail has an open ledge for most of the way, allowing for magnificent views and a little exhilaration, at all times. There is no doubt, N’H, we will repeat this hike in the future. Our memories are not what they used to be. Did we mention that Sedona has a special place in our souls? Thought not.

The editor stops for a breather early on the trail, in the shadows

Jenni calls them walls (on canyon floor), taken in by this sight

Cheers,

Jenni and Jeffrey

That is not the way down, Jeffrey, you're losing it. Besides, it's rude to point

Picturesque

Hm!