Sedona's Mystic Trail offers short, but scenic hike

<i>Lisa Viotti/NHO</i><br>

<i>Lisa Viotti/NHO</i><br>

SEDONA, Ariz. - Horseback riders, bicyclers and hikers can all enjoy the Mystic Trail in Sedona. The bad news is it's a short trail. The good news is that it hooks into many other trails.

Flagstaff nature photographer Lisa Viotti calls it a short, fun scenic trail. She likes the idea of connecting with several other trails.

"Many choose to do a loop, most popularly combining this trail with the Broken Arrow Trail," she said.

Mystic Trail also connects with the Bell Rock Pathway and Twin Buttes.

Viotti said like most Sedona trails the red rock views on this trek are amazing. The views include Wilson Mountain, Table Top Mountain and Cathedral Rock along with other vistas.

"Whether you hike or ride this trail, Mystic is fun," she said.

Viotti noted that while the trail is scenic and enjoyable that it doesn't call for technical sections that many Sedona trails are known for having.

The round trip hike on Mystic Trail is two miles with an elevation change of only 200 feet.

The temperature is moderate this time of year before the summer heat moves in. There is tree cover with pinyon pines, junipers and Arizona cypress.

There is no water along this trail so hikers need to come prepared. Due to the shortness of this trail, many families like it so it is kid friendly.

"This trail is good for just catching a breath of fresh air," Viotti said.

Directions:

From Sedona Y at Highway 89A and Highway 179 drive 2.8 miles south on Highway 179 to Chapel Road and turn left. Continue 0.35 miles to the posted trailhead on the left. A second access can be found off Pine Drive.

Resource Book: Day Hikes Around Sedona:100 Great Hikes by Robert Stone. Published by Day Hike Books

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