Bear Sign Trail No. 59

An infrequently used trail that has a true remote feel. It is shady, and can be hiked in summer. Begin on Dry Creek Trail. Its signed trailhead is west of the parking area across a wash. The trail immediately enters Wilderness Area and turns right as it meets Dry Creek and follows along this usually dry streambed.

It climbs out briefly and there is a good view of the area. At 0.75 miles, there is a junction of two drainage ditches (see photo). View along the Bear Sign TrailDry Creek continues ahead. Go left past the trailhead sign for Bear Sign. The trail climbs gradually parallel to the drainage with views of the red rock walls of this rugged canyon. later, the trail narrows and becomes less distinct, but is never far from the dry streambed and is marked by cairns. At 3 miles, the trail crosses a large wash, bends right and soon ends in a carpet of ferns with views of white Coconino sandstone cliffs. Return by the same route for a 6.5 mile hike.

Rating: Moderate

Hiking Time: Allow 4 hours roundtrip

Uses: Hiking and Horses; Bicycles are prohibited in the Wilderness Area

USGS Map: Wilson Mountain

See also, Secret Canyon Loop Trails

At a Glance