Sedona Westerners hiking the Bear Mountain Trail. The red rocks in the center of the photo are Fay Canyon and Wilson Mountain can be seen in the background. (Photo by Jay Mackey)

During a week of warm weather, with days in the mid-90’s, the Mustangs met at Posse Grounds and set off to Bear Mountain. We were introduced to our hike leader, Brad Bell, and his co-leader, Crystal Marty. During the carpool ride to the Bear Mountain/Doe Mountain Trailhead, there was much discussion about recent hikes. It was a bright, sunny day for a great hike up and down Bear Mountain with a total distance of 5.2 miles and a cumulative elevation gain of 1,900 feet.

As we set off to reach the first bench, Brad Bell reminded us that this was a difficult, all uphill/downhill hike and to use our hiking poles and bring plenty of water. Most of the group had done the Bear Mountain Trail at least once before and they were well prepared. On our way up the rocky trail to the first bench, ...

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