Meet the Drifters: A New Sedona Westerners Hiking Group

May 09, 2025

There’s a fresh breeze blowing through the red rocks of Sedona, and it’s bringing with it a new kind of hiking experience. Meet The Drifters — the latest addition to the Sedona Westerners Hiking Club, officially launched in January 2025. This new group is tailor-made for those who enjoy nature at a gentler pace.

The Drifters were created to offer hikers a relaxed and enjoyable option: hikes that cover just 2 to 3 miles, with plenty of time to take in the scenery, pause for photos, and simply enjoy the journey. With an easygoing rhythm and frequent stops, the group provides a perfect fit for newcomers, casual hikers, and anyone who prefers to savor the sights instead of racing to the finish.

And it’s working - the Drifters have already drawn new members to the Sedona Westerners who might not have joined otherwise. “We’ve seen a wonderful response,” said Donna Forsythe, one of the group’s organizers. “People love that they can still be active, explore the beauty of Sedona, and make new friends - all with the ease of shorter, slower-paced hikes.”

Karen Heinze, one of the new members, said, “The first thing I did after relocating to Sedona was join the Westerners. It was the one constant I had on my list of things to do. Coming off a desk job, the Drifters have the perfect combination of pace and exploration all while taking time to enjoy the views and get to know those in the group.”

Karen continues, “I already have favorites that I have returned to explore. The Baldwin-Templeton trail in the VOC has access to Oak Creek along with higher level elevations. I like how the canyon and creek are changing through the seasons. This feels like a peaceful hike even with a few fancy footwork challenges. I also enjoy the Mystic/Hog Wash/Peccary hike. While Mystic is a fairly flat trail close to Elephant Rock. I really like the turn to Hog Wash and then Peccary which have plenty of fabulous views, in and out of shade with a few, easy-enough inclines and rocky areas. 

Both hikes offer a sense of accomplishment and can easily be completed in less than three hours, including a break, leaving the rest of the day for Sedona fun.

Since January, the Drifters have made Wednesday their official hiking day. Week after week, a cheerful group of 8 to 12 hikers gathers to explore Sedona’s trails, creating a mid-week tradition that’s as rewarding as it is refreshing. Favorite hikes so far have included iconic routes like Submarine Rock, Woods Canyon, Thunder Mountain/Andante, Turkey Creek and Baldwin/Templeton - each one offering stunning views and lasting memories.

But the Drifters are about more than just mileage, they’re about connection. New friendships are blooming on the trail, discoveries are made with every step, and laughter fills the air as often as birdsong.

If you’ve ever wanted to explore Sedona’s trails but felt intimidated by long hikes or fast paces, this is your sign to give it a try. The Drifters are proving that you don’t have to go far or fast to have a great time. Sometimes, the best hikes are the ones where you drift a little and take it all in.

The Sedona Westerners are taking a summer hiatus, but the 2025-2026 hiking season will resume in September. Go to www.Sedona Westeners.org to learn more about the hiking club and join us in the fall for another fun season of hiking.