Steamboat Rock

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Geological Significance · Views

This massive sandstone formation looms above uptown Sedona and the mouth of Oak Creek Canyon. Steamboat has two "decks", the first encountered is very long and level and a relief after the initial scramble. The second, or as I call it the "bridge deck", is harder more resistant limestone (Fort Apache formation) that protects the softer sandstone (Bell Rock formation) underneath.

Midgley Bridge Trail area requires a Red Rock Pass. The pass costs $5 for a day, $15 for a week, or $20 for a year

This massive sandstone formation looms above uptown Sedona and the mouth of Oak Creek Canyon. Steamboat has two "decks", the first encountered is very long and level and a relief after the initial scramble. The second, or as I call it the "bridge deck", is harder more resistant limestone (Fort Apache formation) that protects the softer sandstone (Bell Rock formation) underneath.

At the parking area, go west and follow the wide old road which becomes the Wilson Canyon Trail. The Jim Thompson trail is marked and forks to the left. Take this trail uphill until it widens and levels out. As the trail begins a gradual downhill and left bend, look for a trail to the right with dead wood blocking it from mountain bikes. Follow this trail up the north side of Steamboat watching for rock cairns along the way. There are many possible ways up this section but the cairns mark the best way for most hikers. Once up on the first "deck", enjoy the stroll and the great views. Continue south towards the second "deck". A loose talus slope presents itself to the right. Follow this up the slope to the limestone formation. There are several ways up but only two for most of us. Use your route finding skills. Once on the limestone "bridge deck" one can walk a level course from the north to the south.