Wilson Mountain, a day hiker's dream
Jenni making her way up to eventually look down on those slabs
One of the spectacular overlooks at the peak
Wilson Mountain is the highest peak in Sedona (7,122 feet) with outstanding views of the city or the canyon area. One can either hike to the south or north or both should one feel very energetic. We tend to treat them as two separate hikes, ranging from 10 to 11 miles each. The hike is rated strenuous with an elevation gain of somewhere between 2,450 to 2,600 feet. The trail is tough but always interesting with exposed views the whole way. The path is rocky, tight or narrow with cactus plants trimming the edges, and legs when not careful. There are deep fall-offs in many of the places providing excitement in case one tires of the tremendous beauty. It is a first rate experience that tests the body and exposes the mind and soul to the best of Sedona, in our opinion. The peak is in view for half the hike including the saddle—we find this particularly attractive.
Preparing for lunch at the peak; slabs of earlier picture now well below 'Blue Belle'
A final peek over peak
On our return, some five hours after commencement, we noticed a religious couple decked out for a hike. He wore a suit of course, without the jacket while the wife had on a long skirt, long sleeves and appropriate headdress. As is our custom, we greeted him traditionally which startled both of them. We conversed very briefly. They were from New York with accents that could not be more expressive of their hometown. The woman asked where we had hiked. We pointed to the peak as humbly as we could after such an incredible experience, explaining what it was about. From the car park, the mountain is prominent. She looked at us and said, “I couldn’t do that, I’m not as fit as you.” We appreciated the explanation and honesty. It was comforting to know that an ‘out of shape’ person would not replicate our efforts easily—otherwise, we’ve been wasting our time training and exercising.
'Jumping Jack...Jeff..Flash, not showing off entirely, we think; actually, our daily ritual, in a particularly good spot
Hiking under the peak, an intimidating sight at times, particularly in the beginning
The valley or floor with Midgely Bridge in foreground; unfortunately, very hazy lately
Maude A. compared some of the snow covered peaks in the USA with those of the Swiss Alps. We have met a number of people over the years who bring an interesting perspective regarding the comparison. The difference between so much in America is that a wilderness exists, much of the vast land remains in its original form. In Switzerland, the land is cultivated or brought under man’s control. Walking on the alps, no one can deny their beauty, is more akin to being in wild parks for want of a better analogy. Of course, some prefer the wild, others like things to be domesticated. We understand the point of view well—we like it all.
Blue background viewed through the summit rocks
Coming down fast, we are level with Steamboat, funnel on left (last blog), Cathedral Rock in distant hazy atmosphere
Once again, we viewed the San Francisco Mountain range in Flagstaff from part-way up Wilson. This is the hike from last Wednesday that will linger in our minds for a long time. We like that very much.
Cheers,
Jenni and Jeffrey
Casual Jenni earns a well-deserved break at summit
Not only nocturnals love a sunset. That evening's treat and 'show'
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