Sterling Pass Trail

Dogs Leashed

Features Fall Colors · Views · Wildlife

The trail heads up an unnamed drainage of Oak Creek Canyon through a mixed conifer forest dominated by huge orange-barked ponderosa pines. Great overlooks along the climb; take time to enjoy the views.

In the afternoon, the canyon is completely exposed to the sun, so plan for heat and sun protection.

Named for a local settler, Sterling Pass Trail leads over a high saddle from Oak Creek Canyon into nearby and equally scenic Sterling Canyon. The climb is steep right from the trailhead. Dwarf canyon maples are plentiful here, too. They turn scarlet and peach in the fall, making this a great place to enjoy the most colorful of seasons.

As you ascend the steep slope you'll notice that, above the mosaic of tree limbs that form the forest ceiling, huge monoliths of deep red and buff sandstone tower toward the sky. You'll be rubbing shoulders with these giants as you slide between them at the top of the pass and begin the descent into Sterling Canyon. The best overlooks are along the climb, so be sure to take a break every now and then to enjoy them. The view from the top is somewhat obscured by trees. You can continue past the end of the trail to join with the Vultee Arch Trail #22.

Ponderosa, Maple, Oak. Deer, Javelina, Bear.