Summit Bagger

Are you ready to earn one of Sedona’s most extraordinary summit views? This challenging private hiking adventure climbs Bear Mountain, carrying you deep into the Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness and steadily upward through some of the most rugged terrain in the region. The reward is an extraordinary elevated panorama where layer upon layer of Sedona’s iconic red rock formations unfolds across the horizon.

Although the distance may appear manageable on paper, this is a hike that demands considerably more than the mileage suggests. Four false summits, steep grades, rugged terrain, and sustained elevation gain turn the ascent into a genuine physical challenge. For experienced hikers looking to test their limits while experiencing some of the finest scenery in Red Rock Country, the journey is every bit as memorable as the summit itself.

The Long Way to a Big View

Bear Mountain does not reveal its summit all at once. As you climb, the trail repeatedly appears to approach its high point, only to reveal another rise ahead. These four false summits add an element of anticipation to the adventure while making the relatively short distance considerably more demanding than it might initially appear. The steepness and rugged character of the route require focus, endurance, and deliberate movement. This is not a hike where the miles tell the entire story. The terrain itself is the challenge, rewarding those who enjoy pushing themselves through demanding desert landscapes.

Layer Upon Layer of Red Rocks

The ultimate reward is the perspective. From Bear Mountain, Sedona seems to emerge in every direction, with one remarkable formation stacked behind another across the vast landscape. Doe Mountain, Capitol Butte, Mitten Ridge, Airport Mesa, Scheurman Mountain, Fay Canyon, Brins Mesa, Wilson Mountain, Courthouse Butte, and Bell Rock all contribute to an extraordinary panorama.

Rather than focusing on a single landmark, the summit provides a sweeping view of the interconnected geography of Red Rock Country. The formations appear to build upon one another toward the horizon, creating the impression of an immense natural amphitheater carved from sandstone. For photographers, this elevated vantage point offers exceptional opportunities to capture Sedona’s geology in its full context. The dazzling light, distant formations, rugged foreground, and immense desert sky combine to create compositions that are difficult to replicate from lower viewpoints.

Deep Within Secret Mountain Wilderness

Much of the adventure takes place within or along the Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness, providing a dramatically different experience from Sedona’s heavily traveled attractions. The wilderness setting creates opportunities to experience a quieter side of the region while remaining surrounded by some of its most spectacular terrain. The area also provides habitat for a variety of desert wildlife. Encounters are never guaranteed, but hikers should remain observant as they move through the rugged landscape.

For visitors hoping to escape the crowds, photograph less-conventional perspectives, and experience Sedona in a more remote environment, the wilderness setting is an important part of what makes this adventure special.

A Summit Worth the Effort

The challenge begins long before the summit comes into view. Every steep section, rocky passage, and false summit becomes part of the story, building anticipation for the panoramic reward above. Three of Sedona’s four renowned vortex areas can also be seen from the route, adding another dimension to an already remarkable perspective. Whether you are interested in Sedona’s vortex traditions, fascinated by the geology, or simply looking for an extraordinary place to experience the landscape, the elevated setting provides plenty to discover.

A Private Challenge in Red Rock Country

A private guide allows your group to approach the climb at a pace appropriate for your abilities while providing insight into the surrounding geology, wilderness, and landmarks. Having an experienced guide also allows you to concentrate on the challenge itself rather than worrying about route details. For hikers who enjoy pushing their physical boundaries, the experience becomes more than a scenic excursion. It is an opportunity to test your endurance, overcome the false summits, navigate rugged terrain, and ultimately stand above an enormous expanse of Red Rock Country.

Are You Ready to Go Summit Bagging?

If you’re searching for a challenging Sedona hike, a demanding Bear Mountain adventure, or a summit experience with truly expansive panoramic views, this is an opportunity to see Red Rock Country from an exceptional vantage point. The distance may look deceivingly short. The terrain tells a different story. 

Four false summits stand between you and the top. Steep slopes demand determination. Rugged wilderness surrounds you. And with every step upward, another layer of Sedona’s extraordinary landscape comes into view.

Come push your limits, leave the crowds behind, and earn one of the most spectacular summit perspectives in Sedona.

Outing Includes

• Private Hiking Guide
• Red Rock Pass
• Sedona Resort/Airbnb/VRBO Transportation (Sedona, Village of Oak Creek, Oak Creek Canyon)
• Healthy Packaged Trail Snacks
• Fruit & Veggie Bento Box
• Bottled Water
• Ultima Electrolytes
• Osprey Daylite Hiking Backpack
• Trekking Poles (By Request)
• 500 Lumen Black Diamond Headlamp
• Gloves, Beanies, Neck Gaiters (During Winter Months)  
• UPF 50 Sun Hoodies  
• Disposable Rain Ponchos  
• Micro Spikes for Snow (If Needed)  
• Osprey Poco Plus Kids Carrying Pack (By Request) 
• Kids Car Seats & Booster Seats (By Request)
• Full List of Supplies Included

Logistics

• Duration: Half Day/4.5 Hours of Hiking & 1 Hour of Logistics
• Distance: 5.6 Miles
• Elevation Change: 1,950ft
• Capacity: 1 - 6 Hikers
• Difficulty: Hard
• Transport: 1 Vehicle
• Sites Visited: 1 Site
• Map of Hike: View Map of Half Day: Summit Bagger
• Trails Used: Bear Mountain Trail
• Wilderness Area: Climbs to the Top of Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness
• Hike Type: Summit Bid, Sunrise/Sunset Start, Wilderness Access
• Best Season: All Year
• Start Times: 5AM, 5:30AM, 6AM, 6:30AM, 7AM, 7:30AM, 8AM, 2:30PM
• Upcoming Availabilities: Summit Bagger Calendar
• Cost: $275 + Tax/Hiker (Private Group) & $525 + Tax (Solo Hiker)

*PRIVATE ONLY TOURS: TWO PERSON MINIMUM FOR PRIVATE GROUPS OR PLEASE REFER TO SOLO HIKER PRICING

**WE HIGHLY RECOMMEND CONSIDERING PEEK PROTECT COVERAGE AND REVIEWING OUR CANCELLATION POLICY BEFORE BOOKING YOUR RESERVATION

***WE REQUIRE ALL HIKERS/ATTENDEES TO HAVE MEDICAL INSURANCE TO ATTEND ANY OF OUR OUTINGS OFFERED