AZOFFROAD.NET

  Schnebly Hill Road in Sedona, Arizona, is one of the best scenic trails in the state. This trail can be ridden either way, you can start in Sedona and end at the I-17, or you can start at the I-17 and end in Sedona. This trail can be done in almost any type of vehicle, but off highway vehicles and high-clearance SUV’s will be the best choice. Please note that you do need to purchase a Red Rock Pass if you stop along the way, which inevitably you will. Click here for information on where to get Red Rock Passes. (Please note: This trail is closed during winter! )

  To get to the beginning of the trail (which will be Sedona for this trail description), follow the Arizona 179 north into Sedona. Right when the road turns left to cross Oak Creek, you will see signs for Schenbly Hill Road, which is the lesser paved road straight. Follow the road through residential area and stay right at the first fork. The best place to park seems to be a turnoff to the left at 0.85 miles. If you park elsewhere, make sure you are not blocking a road or a residential drive.

  Reset your trip odometer as you begin heading east out of the parking area. Immediately, the pavement will end. The road twists sharply and climbs as you pass through the scenic Bear Wallow Canyon. Even though the scenery looks beautiful, make sure to focus on the road as it has numerous tight turns. Our advice: stop every once in a while to take in the scenery and take pictures. A pull-off on the left at 4.25 miles offers a good photo op. Another pull-off is off to the left at 5.35 miles, this one called Vista Point offers excellent views. Stay straight where Forest Service Rd 801 goes right at 7.45 miles. At 8.7 miles, pass a small dam and reservoir. Ranch off to the right is on private property, so make sure to respect that by staying on the main trail. Tanks off to the right at 9.8 miles and left at 10.25 miles offer some additional photo ops. Dirt road ends at 10.9 miles when you hit the paved road and I-17. If you have an SUV, simply hop onto the I-17 to get home or you can take the trail back into Sedona.

  This 11 mile trip one way can be completed in about an hour, but definitely allow for more time for relaxation and for pictures. This trail is mostly easy as it only has a few bumps. Remember, this trail is closed during winter! Also, remember the trail can be driven either way, the choice if yours. Finally, the Photo and Map links above are to other sites not ran by AZOFFROAD.NET, but we have included them because they are very helpful.