Woods Canyon Trail

I've had cats all my life, and I've seen a lot of hairballs. They generally fill me with dismay when they show up on my living room rug, especially when I'm strolling around barefoot in the dark. 

However, it's rather cool to run across a giant one on the trail. A cat is a cat is a cat, and mountain lions also preen themselves — and hack up the results. It was the closest I've been to one of these majestic creatures, and while I generally prefer to keep my distance, it's always exciting to learn something new. Fortunately, my guide today was well-versed in the Sedona desert. You can enjoy the video below to learn more about these fascinating animals. 

Woods Canyon Trail is a 10-mile out-and-back trail, although you can turn around at any point. It's moderate, with some mild up and downs. However, much of the trail is an easy stroll. You won't enjoy much shade for much of the initial few miles, so save this hike for the cooler months or hit it in the morning before the heat becomes obnoxious in the summertime. As always, bring plenty of water.

Although there was water — and waterfowl — in the creek today, it's often dry in the summer months. An early season snowstorm and plenty of rains made this a lovely break spot for ducks on their way south for the winter. Sadly, we didn't have any birdseed or corn to share, although it's okay to give these critters a handful of your trail mix. Just stay away from bread.

It's a piece of cake to find the trailhead. Take the 1-17 to Sedona, exiting on SR-179. As you enter the Village of Oak Creek, look to your right for the ranger's station. Park on the south side, and you'll see the trailhead. You know you've gone too far if you pass the first traffic circle. 

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