SEDONA GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Overnight Ascent to Wilson Mountain: A Strenuous Summit with Unrivaled Canyon Panoramas
A guided, all‑inclusive overnight backpacking trip that covers the steep climb to Wilson Mountain’s summit—this guide distills route notes, logistics, and what’s provided so you can plan the climb.
Overnight Ascent to Wilson Mountain: A Strenuous Summit with Unrivaled Canyon Panoramas.
This staffed overnight hike up Wilson Mountain in Sedona pushes into some of the most panoramic country above Oak Creek Canyon. The route packs roughly 2,300 feet of elevation gain—much of it in the final mile—and culminates in sweeping views across Oak Creek Canyon, Sedona, Coffee Pot Rock, Capitol Butte, Sterling Canyon and the Verde Valley; Discovery Treks runs the all‑inclusive trip with guide support, meals and necessary gear.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Panoramic summit views over Oak Creek Canyon
From the trailhead the scenery opens quickly and only improves with elevation; the summit delivers hundreds of square miles of canyon country, including named landmarks such as Coffee Pot Rock, Capitol Butte and the Verde Valley.
A short but savage final mile
Expect a strenuous climb—the majority of the 2,300‑foot ascent is concentrated in the last mile—so pacing and early starts are essential on this route.
All‑inclusive guided overnight
Discovery Treks provides an experienced Wilderness First Responder guide, meals from lunch day one through lunch day two, transportation from Scottsdale, permits, and necessary backpacking gear so you can focus on the climb and the views.
What the day feels like
What the overnight feels like
The day begins early and builds steadily—views open almost immediately after leaving the car, the trail alternates between shaded stretches and exposed sections that can feel hot in summer, and the final mile delivers the steep, sustained gain that defines the outing; at the top you bivvy beneath expansive canyon vistas before a return the following day.
THE LANDSCAPE
Panoramic summit views over Oak Creek Canyon
From the trailhead the scenery opens quickly and only improves with elevation; the summit delivers hundreds of square miles of canyon country, including named landmarks such as Coffee Pot Rock, Capitol Butte and the Verde Valley.
THE ROUTE
A short but savage final mile
Expect a strenuous climb—the majority of the 2,300‑foot ascent is concentrated in the last mile—so pacing and early starts are essential on this route.
THE SUPPORT
All‑inclusive guided overnight
Discovery Treks provides an experienced Wilderness First Responder guide, meals from lunch day one through lunch day two, transportation from Scottsdale, permits, and necessary backpacking gear so you can focus on the climb and the views.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits—and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Discovery Treks supplies all meals from lunch day one through lunch day two, a Wilderness First Responder certified backpacking guide, transportation from Scottsdale, necessary backpacking gear (65–75 L backpack, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, trekking poles, double‑occupancy tent), and all permits and fees. A single tent upgrade is available for $50.
The tour includes transport from Scottsdale and all permits; base rate listed at $797 per traveler.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How difficult is the Wilson Mountain Overnight?
The hike is strenuous: about 2,300 feet of elevation gain with the majority concentrated in the last mile, so it requires good fitness and preparation.
Is gear provided or do I need to bring my own?
The operator provides necessary backpacking gear including a 65–75 L backpack, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, trekking poles and a double‑occupancy tent (single tent upgrade available for $50).
What meals are included?
All meals from lunch on day one through lunch on day two are included with the trip.
How much does the trip cost?
The published rate for the Wilson Mountain Overnight is $797 per traveler.
Is transportation to the trailhead provided?
Yes—transportation from Scottsdale is included as part of the tour package.
Is there an easier or cooler route option?
There is an alternate, cooler route via the North Wilson Trail, which starts just north of Encinoso Picnic Area a few miles up canyon from Midgley Bridge and joins the main route midway up the mountain.