Wilson Mountain is named after Richard Wilson, who was killed by a grizzly in 1885. His body was found in Wilson Canyon, which is also named after him.

After some dropouts, we still have ten intrepid hikers.

There are two ways to hike up Wilson Mountain: one is from Midgley Bridge, the other is from Encinoso Picnic Area. The hike from Midgley Bridge is more exposed, more scenic, but the parking lot is tough to get a spot in if we arrive after 8:00 AM.

Two cars with seven hikers drove from Phoenix to the Encinoso Picnic Area to meet three more hikers.

This hike is rated strenuous because of the 2300' climb. It has awesome views. From the trailhead, the trail keeps going up and there are switchbacks. The trail is easy to follow, but rocky with some loose gravel. Some parts of it are in the shade but most are exposed.

Fall color along the trail is the reward for climbing. At the first bench, one hiker didn’t feel continuing to hike up to Mt. Wilson. He decided to take it easy by sitting around and hiking back to the trailhead.

The trail is gradual, going up to Mt Wilson through gambel oaks and other forest trees.

At the top of Mt Wilson we decided to hike to the Sedona Overlook first and have lunch. After finishing lunch, we hiked to the North Canyon Overlook. We are stunned with the vertical drop of several hundred feet. After enjoying the view and taking pictures, we hiked back to the trailhead. Hiking down is as hard as hiking up.

The hike is challenging, but absolutely amazing with a reward at the end plus scenic views of the canyon country such as Oak Creek Canyon, Sterling Canyon, Sedona etc., along the trail. In addition, the fall color was at its peak.

Happy trails to all!