Munds Mountain via Schnebly Hill

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Features Birding · Commonly Backpacked · Geological Significance · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

One of the few accessible summits via an official trail in the Munds Mountain Wilderness offering views of Sedona from the east as well as the San Fransisco peaks of Flagstaff on a clear day.

The Munds Mountain Trail is reached using the Schnebly Hill Trail.

The Schnebly Hill Trail climbs moderately and steadily up the west face of Schnebly Hill following the original alignment of Schnebly Hill Road. There are some magnificent red rock views for the first 0.75 miles which is unshaded. The trail enters partial shade and at 1.25 miles, where the roadbed turns sharply to the left, take the trail on the right which is signed "Munds, Jacks, Hot Loop". It climbs moderately in shade for nearly 0.75 mile, passing through two cattle gates, and emerging on a large, open expanse near Committee Tank.

There are several overlooks offering great views of Munds Mountain, Bear Wallow Canyon, and the red rock formations beyond. The trail is level for the next quarter mile and then descends to a saddle separating Schnebly Hill and Munds Mountain at the head of Jacks Canyon. Just before reaching the saddle, there is a signed trailhead on the left for Hot Loop Trail. Continue down another 150 yards where there are two more signed trailheads. The Jacks Canyon Trail leads down to the left.

The Munds Mountain Trail begins here and continues ahead, beginning a steep, switchback ascent, climbing 500 feet in a little over a half-mile. The trail flattens out as it emerges on the broad, open, flat expanse of the mountain top.

Pine, Scrub Oak, Manzanita, Juniper. Coyote, Javelina, Deer, Bear, Elk.