Penetrating deep into Munds Mtn. Wilderness, if you're looking for backcountry when visiting Sedona this is the place to go. From the trailhead you have two options: 1. east into Jack's Canyon 2. southwest toward Woods Canyon. If visiting Jack's Canyon, the trail passes alongside a residential area for just over a mile and then enters the canyon proper. The views aren't amazing (for Sedona) partly because the trail travels below an elevated bench and then enters a wooded creek bed and both of these obstruct views of the area . If you do follow Jacks Canyon to the top, you'll reach a saddle that connects Munds Mtn. to the Schnebly Hill area. I suggest heading up to the top of Munds Mtn for some of the best views to be had in the entire Sedona area. This is a great 2-3 day backpacking trip. From the saddle you could also head southeast and head back toward Woods Canyon which brings us back to option #2 at the trailhead. From Jack's Canyon TH, travel southwest toward Woods Canyon and you'll soon meet up with a trail that heads east and to the top of Horse Mesa - this route combined with the Jacks Canyon is whats known as The Hot Loop. I believe it's about 20 miles long, it's extremely remote, and should not be attempted in its entirety excluding extremely experienced, physically capable backcountry hikers with moderate route finding abilities - this is no man's land. Water is scarce and your 2-3 times more likely to find that then help, should you require it. Horse Mesa is long, fairly flat, and hard walking due to the softball-to-volleyball size lava rock found in and along the trail. If it's recently rained or during a snowmelt, traveling across Horse Mesa is physically draining due the thick and slippery mud that you cannot keep from weighing down your boots - expect travel times to double or triple. Toward the back of the Mesa you'll begin hiking along the run of Woods Canyon, this country is spectacular and shouldn't be missed. The views into and of Woods Canyon are unmatched in Sedona. Wildlife is plentiful and one can often see deer, elk, coyotes, numerous birds, rabbits, javelina, bats, and if you're lucky a bobcat or ring-tailed cat. Toward the back of the Mesa you may have to do some route finding as the trail back there is not often traveled and is some what overgrown. However, this only ads to the already present feelings of true wilderness adventure. Soon the trail begins to climb the canyon wall toward the Mogollon Rim and here you'll battle your way through very thick oak brush - be prepared with durable long-sleeved shirts & pants and a pair of gloves. Bonus: When you begin gaining elevation, keep your eyes open for cribbing (stacked stones and logs) in the trail built by turn-of-the-century cowboys. Upon reaching the top, the trail head northwest toward the top of Jack's Canyon and from there you can summit Munds Mtn., descend Jack's Canyon, or continue toward Schnebly Hill. The Hot Loop is an amazing backcountry opportunity and it's my personal favorite for backpacking in the Sedona area. Should you decide to do the loop, make sure to camp out on top of Munds Mtn for at least one night. Stay near the end of the trail and as close to the western rim as you can. As you watch the sun set from camp you'll then be able to watch Sedona come alive at night. If you want more info...
  Â
Read more
Learn more insights from Wanderboat AI.
