Bear Mountain

Bear Mountain’s striking silhouette can be seen from various points in Sedona, with its rugged peaks standing out against the red rock landscape and blue sky.

Bear Mountain in Sedona is one of the most challenging hikes in the area, offering a steep and strenuous climb with incredible panoramic views. The trail is about five miles round trip with an elevation gain of approximately 2,000 feet, making it a demanding trek best suited for experienced hikers.

The hike begins with a relatively easy section before quickly turning into a steep ascent over rocky terrain. Along the way, hikers encounter multiple false summits, rugged red rock formations, and some scrambling sections. Reaching the top is well worth the effort, as the summit provides breathtaking 360-degree views of Sedona’s iconic red rock landscapes, including Doe Mountain and Fay Canyon, as well as distant sights of the San Francisco Peaks near Flagstaff on a clear day.

Due to the exposed nature of the trail, it’s essential to bring plenty of water, wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip, and start early to avoid the midday heat. A Red Rock Pass or an America the Beautiful Pass is required for parking at the trailhead.

Nearby Attractions

See all attractions in Sedona
Boynton Canyon
Admire Boynton Canyon from various viewpoints offering striking views of its red rock walls, green forests, and expansive desert landscapes.
Coffee Pot Rock
Coffee Pot Rock is one of Sedona’s most recognizable landmarks, named for its unique shape that resembles a classic coffee pot.
Vultee Arch Road
A rugged 4WD trail leading to a stunning sandstone arch, offering scenic red rock views, off-road adventure, and a rewarding hike.
Thunder Mountain
Thunder Mountain is one of Sedona’s most striking rock formations. Located in the heart of the Red Rock Range, it is known for its incredible panoramic views.
Snoopy Rock
Snoopy Rock in Sedona is a famous red rock formation resembling Snoopy lying on his back, offering stunning views, scenic hikes, and great photo opportunities.
Red Rocks
Sedona’s Red Rocks are stunning sandstone formations, known for their vibrant colors and iconic landmarks.

Related Tours

Coyote Canyons Off-Road: Private Jeep Excursion from Sedona

Sedona’s Red Rock Country is a breathtaking desert landscape, where vibrant sandstone formations rise dramatically against the sky, deep canyons carve through the earth, and a rich ecosystem thrives in the high desert climate. Exploring this remarkable terrain on an off-road adventure is the perfect way to take in the awe-inspiring scenery, uncover hidden natural wonders, and learn about the unique geological and cultural history of the area. This two-hour private Jeep tour takes you deep into Sedona’s famed Coyote Canyons, where striking rock formations tell the story of millions of years of natural transformation.

On this 2-hour off-road excursion, you will:

  • Embark on a journey to Sedona’s beautiful backcountry in a specially equipped off-road vehicle;
  • Enjoy the comfort and convenience of private transport;
  • Have the undivided attention of your experienced local driver-guide who will expertly navigate the rugged terrain and bring the canyons’ stories to life;
  • Kick off your adventure in downtown Sedona before heading off the beaten track;
  • Admire the vibrant red and orange sandstone formations, deep canyons, and diverse desert scenery;
  • See some of the most iconic rock formations like Thunder Mountain, Boynton Canyon, Doe Mesa and Bear Mountain;
  • Keep your eyes peeled for emblematic local wildlife including Javelinas, Mule Deer and of course Coyotes;
  • Learn more about the particular geology of the Verde Valley as you cruise along Vultee Arch Road;
  • Get a crash course in local history and find out what life was like for the cattle ranchers who came to the canyons in the late 1800s;
  • Discover the different plant species to be found across the desert and the lush valley;
  • Stop at several scenic overlooks for incredible panoramic views;

Your exhilarating excursion will begin at a conveniently located meeting point in Downtown Sedona, where you will get acquainted with your guide, an expert in local history and geology, and hop onboard your open-air Jeep Wrangler to begin your journey into the heart of Red Rock Country. You will quickly leave behind the paved roads and bustling town centre, drawing ever closer to some of Sedona’s most iconic landmarks.

Your guide will take you on a carefully curated route, showing off incredible sandstone rock formations like the towering Thunder Mountain, the aptly named Snoopy’s Rock, the majestic Doe Mesa, where sweeping views stretch across the red rock expanse, and the lesser-known but equally impressive Camel’s Canyon. The mystical atmosphere of Boynton Canyon—known for its vortex sites and ancient Native American history—offers a glimpse into Sedona’s spiritual side, while Bear Mountain stands as a testament to the region’s rugged beauty.

Beyond the extraordinary rock formations, the diverse wildlife of the region adds another layer of wonder to your journey. You should keep an eye out for mule deer, elusive javelinas, and, if you’re lucky, the namesake coyotes that roam these lands. Your guide will reveal an astonishing variety of plant life that can thrive within the desert, from towering juniper trees and fragrant sagebrush to the resilient prickly pear cacti that dot the landscape. As your Jeep winds along Vultee Arch Road to the lush Verde Valley, you’ll gain insight into the geological forces that shaped Sedona’s canyons over hundreds of millions of years. Your guide will also share fascinating stories about the cattle ranchers who settled in the region in the late 1800s, braving the harsh desert environment to carve out a way of life in the wild frontier.

Throughout your journey, you’ll have opportunities to stop at several scenic overlooks, where you can take in panoramic views, snap breathtaking photos, and simply soak in the serene beauty of the red rock wilderness. Whether you're a nature lover, photography enthusiast, or curious about the region’s history, this private Jeep tour is a truly exceptional way to experience Sedona’s magnificent landscapes.

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