04 October 2011

Red Rock Secret Mountain...



Sedona, Arizona
     This trail is super easy and fun! There are creeks along the way for a touch of peacefulness. Red Rock Secret Mountain is located in the Sedona, Arizona, Red Rock area. If you ever have the time, please visit this place! It's absolutely fabulous. 
     
     As you all know, Simon is an older guy and this trail was pretty easy for him to go on. Your pets must be leashed at all times on this trail...as well as any other state law, they need to be leashed. Some people think it's not, so just be aware of your surroundings. I ran into some people with an Akita off leash...it was a lovely encounter.


Driving to our trail
Gorgeous views to and from Phoenix
     The drive to this place is gorgeous. Red rocks, cliffs, trees and much more. I'm the type of person who DESPISES heights, but it is well worth it! If you are coming from Phoenix or Flagstaff, take the scenic route. It'll leave you speechless. 


Beginning of trail #108, West Fork

     Trail #108, pictured to the left is about three miles round trip. There are some challenging areas, but not too much for you or your furry friend. I'd recommend getting boots for your dog if you do start to hike more than usual. Simon has vibram dog boots from Ruffwear. You can find them for a great price at departmentofgoods.com. They are the cheapest boots, but the BEST you can find out there. REI does sell them, but for about 60% more than the link listed above.  Once you pass the "sidewalk" portion of this trail, it turns into sand...like beach sand. It's a bit tough to walk in (I'd recommend bringing an extra pair of shoes...), but if you have good shoes for traction it's a breeze.  I'd recommend a trail shoe, such as Merrell's barefoot series or Keen's trail shoes. They are AWESOME! Most people don't know who, what or where to buy Merrell footwear. You can get them at Dillards, REI, Amazon and many other places they sell hiking gear and such. They have the best shoe around, in my opinion.


Creeks along the trail. 
     This trail is used A LOT. I found the best times to go are during the mid mornings. Not many people will get up that early to go hike. The drive to get here is not that confusing, but it is a sharp turn to get in. There is parking, but a fee is required as well as a permit to hang visible in your car. The current fee is $9.00 and with that you can park anywhere there is a "permit required" parking area. 


Beautiful views of the red rocks. :)
     If you drive further up the road there is a place called "Halfway". I've been told that it's the busiest of the trails through Sedona. Not sure if that's correct info though.  One thing that kinda wigged me out about this particular trail ( Secret Mountain), there are ungodly amounts of vegetation. I don't mind it, but Simon's face was everywhere in it. Snakes are there, but no poisonous ones to note. Gardner snakes are harmless, but still hurt when they bite you, of course. 


J. Cay









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