Bear Mountain Trail: Hiking Guide

If you’re a woman over 50 and in need of some adventure and excitement, you can’t go wrong with a trip to Bear Mountain. Hiking the Bear Mountain Trail can be one of the most enjoyable ways to spend time because it’s a one-of-a-kind experience.

This guide will provide you with everything you need to know about hiking the Bear Mountain Trail and assist you in determining if this trail would be appropriate for you. Read on!

Bear Mountain Trail At a Glance

The Bear Mountain Trail is one of the most challenging hikes you will find in Sedona. Despite the name “Bear” Mountain Trail, there are no bears found along the way. It was just named after its peak’s physical structure, which resembles a bear.

This trail is popular among Sedona’s locals and is also highly recommended for tourist hikers. 

Alongside, there are over 5000 acres of forest hiking trails with lurking lookouts and surprising attractions along the way, as well as breathtaking 360-degree views of the Hudson Valley.

Indeed, there are numerous reasons why Bear Mountain is the best place to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Despite its strenuousness, the entire experience will not fail to impress you with Sedona’s beauty. When you reach the top of the Bear Mountain Trail, you will enjoy the scenic views and the peaceful environment it provides.

How to Get to the Trailhead

Bear Mountain is situated northwest of Sedona. The parking lot is labeled Bear Mountain Trail – Oski Approach/Doe Mountain Parking on Google Maps.

Boynton Pass Road is where the lot is located. Park in the nearby lot, cross the street, and you’ll see the trailhead for the Bear Mountain Trail.

Here’s a map (You can also view it here):

Take Note: You will hike up Doe Mountain if you take the trail directly from the car park. Make sure you cross the street to get to the Bear Mountain trail. Step through the small gate, and you should see a sign indicating that you have arrived at the Bear Mountain Trail.

Hiking Bear Mountain Trail

Bear Mountain boasts over 50 trails across 200 miles, spanning all corners of the park, spread out over 5,000 acres of land. You’ll mostly hike in wooded terrain, complete with tough but rewarding ascents and stunning 360-degree views waiting for you at the top. 

You may view or download the Bear Mountain hiking trail map here.

If you’re up for an extreme adventure, you may give this trip a try and see for yourself how far you can go. 

From the trailhead, the hike doesn’t appear to be too difficult for a woman over 50. The ascent of the first hill serves as a good foretaste of what is to come over the next several hours.

Yet, there are four rough and exhausting climbs on this hike, with the trail leveling out or even heading downhill in between.

Regardless, the path is still well-worn and simple to follow. The trail passes through a large wetland fern field after about 0.5 miles. At 1 mile, there is another trail junction; continue to follow the signs to Bear Mountain.

The trail begins to ascend as it passes through a mature, full-canopy forest. After about 2 miles of hiking, the lean-to is reached before the summit of Bear Mountain.

Essentially, the trail climbs steadily, passing sandstone rocks, juniper trees, and cacti along the way. Colorful, small lizards dart across the trail regularly. Stop along the way to rest while enjoying the breathtaking scenery. The higher you climb, the better the views.

If you reach the summit, you might be disappointed as it is not far from the lean-to and is forested. But it will surely offer you the peace you’re looking for.

Nonetheless, when you descend for about 0.5 miles along Bear Mountain’s southern spine to a viewpoint, you will now overlook the astonishing beauty of Cranberry Lake. 

However, if you’re unable to reach the summit, you may just take a stroll along the lower elevations or piece together a connected series of loops depending on how much time you have. 

What gear do you need?

Hiking in Bear Mountain does not necessitate a lengthy packing list. However, a pair of sturdy hiking boots are worth investing in, especially in this rocky terrain. The ascents might be strenuous on your ankles.

Even the signs directing you will remind you to wear appropriate footwear. 

Alongside, it would be best if you bring your own water to keep you hydrated. Get an insulated water bottle.

Also, an emergency pack and a walking stick or hiking poles to aid you along your journey. 

Explore the Bear Mountain Trail

Women over 50 who want to go hiking should not have their dreams crushed simply because of their age. Hiking Bear Mountain can be a great way to explore the world, and many people haven’t done that before retirement.

The Bear Mountain Trail is optimized for year-round recreation. This trail would be a challenging hike, but the views from the top are amazing and well worth the struggle.

Just remember that you should seek your doctor’s approval before venturing this challenging hike. When all is good, It’s time to go on a hiking adventure! 

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