Rainbow Ridge

Distance: 8.5 miles + 2,500’ Duration: 6-8 hours Difficulty: Hard Class 3 - 4 Exposed scrambling on steep terrain

Adventure Type: Loop Hike (Shuttle Vehicle Required)

Overview- Rainbow Ridge is an type-2, sluggish-scramble up to Sedona’s highest peak, Wilson Mtn. This is an old-school local route that starts on a nice trail, but eventually weaves through brushy, steep, and loose terrain. Route-finding skills, good physical condition, and comfort with exposure are mandatory.

Driving- Park at Brins Mesa Trailhead . Leave a shuttle vehicle at Midgley Bridge.

Hike Description- Starting at Brins Mesa Trail hike westward on a well established trail to the top of the mesa. From the top of the mesa continue northwest towards the rockslide gully (G). Take the rockslide gully to the top of the first bench.

From the top of the bench continue up through brushy and steep terrain to the prominent ridgeline. Advancing along the ridge will require route-finding and cautious navigation. Follow the ridge to the rainbow chimney (C) which grants access to easier hiking above. The last obstacle is a heroic top out on the basalt layer. From the top the hiking gets much easier as you hike across the mesa to join the main trail. Follow the main trail back to the shuttle vehicle at Midgley Bridge Parking Area (SP).