Wilson Mountain Overnight Trek with Discovery Treks
Difficulty
difficult
Duration
10–14 hours over two days
Fitness Level
Good cardiovascular fitness and experience with elevation gain recommended, as the ascent is strenuous with significant elevation change.
Overview
Take on a challenging overnight trek with Discovery Treks up Wilson Mountain, where stunning views of Oak Creek Canyon await. This all-inclusive journey offers expert guidance, gear, and meals, elevating the backpacking experience in Sedona.
Wilson Mountain Overnight
Starting at $797 per person
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on a challenging hike up Wilson Mountain, where breathtaking panoramic views of Oak Creek Canyon and beyond await. This all-inclusive adventure features expert guidance, essential gear, and meals, ensuring a memorable experience as you conquer the strenuous climb and soak in the stunning scenery at the summit.
This Sedona hiking trail heads straight for some of the most panoramic views in the Oak Creek Canyon/Sedona area!
Rates
- Traveler - $797.00
About
Plan a full day for it and start early - the climb up Wilson Mountain is a strenuous one. The majority of the 2300 foot climb is packed into the last mile or so of the hike. You'll have more reasons than just exertion to stop and take a breather along this route, however.
The views start as soon as you leave the car and they just keep getting better. There is shade along parts of this Sedona hiking trail but enough of it is out in the open to make it hot work under a summer sun. An alternate, cooler route is provided by North Wilson Trail which starts just north of Encinoso Picnic Area, just past 3 miles up canyon from Midgley Bridge. The two trails join at a point midway up the mountain.
At the top you'll be rewarded with views that stretch over hundreds of square miles of scenic canyon country and include Oak Creek Canyon, Sedona, Coffee Pot Rock, Capitol Butte, Sterling Canyon and the Verde Valley.
Gear Included
Discovery Treks tours are all inclusive tours which include:
- All meals from lunch day 1 through lunch day 2
- An experienced Wilderness First Responder Certified Backpacking Guide
- Transportation From Scottsdale
- Necessary backpacking gear including 65 - 75L backpack, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, trekking poles, double occupancy tent (single tent upgrade available for $50)
- All permits and fees
Adventure Tips
Prepare for Steep Final Ascent
The last mile climbs sharply with uneven terrain; pace yourself and take breaks to manage energy.
Stay Hydrated Throughout
Bring ample water and use provided filtration options since hydration is critical on exposed sections.
Wear Sun Protection
Portions of the trail lack shade, especially during the hotter months, so sunscreen and hats are recommended.
Look Out for Wildlife
Keep an eye out for local species such as Gambel’s quail and mule deer, particularly around dawn and dusk.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Gambel’s quail often spotted along the trail
- Mule deer grazing early morning or late evening
History
Wilson Mountain and Oak Creek Canyon are situated within lands historically inhabited by the Yavapai and Apache peoples, with cultural significance dating back centuries.
Conservation
Discovery Treks emphasizes low-impact camping practices and strives to maintain trail integrity through Leave No Trace principles in this fragile desert ecosystem.
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Adventure Hotspots in Sedona
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sturdy Hiking Boots
Critical for managing uneven, steep terrain and providing ankle support.
Layered Clothing
Allows for temperature regulation, especially with cool mornings and evenings.
fall specific
Sun Protection
AT- minimum sunscreen, wide-brim hat, and UV-blocking sunglasses reduce risk of sunburn on exposed trail portions.
summer specific
Trekking Poles
Aid balance and reduce joint strain during steep climbs and descents.