Sedona's Jim Thompson Trail

Sedona’s Jim Thompson Trail

Sedona has an abundance of amazing trails with plentiful beautiful hike options. A recent excursion along the Jim Thompson trail made me really appreciate this one for glorious views, excellent terrain, and great Spring foliage throughout. You will find the Brins Mesa and Jim Thompson trailhead parking area located off the somewhat rough dirt road at the end of Jordan Road on the North end of Sedona. From Uptown, take Jordan Road to the end, then turn left at the final T intersection. Drive to the end of the paved road, then proceed onto the dirt road about ½ mile. It’s rough but fine for most vehicles – my Toyota Prius was fine driving slowly and navigating potholes and rough spots. This is a popular trailhead with plenty of parking spaces, but it can fill up – especially on fine-weather weekends. Arrive early in Spring and Fall. There are restrooms on the left entry of the parking lot. Walk to the far Northern end of the parking area to find the Jim Thompson trail, which meanders along beautiful red rock bluffs. Distant views of Sedona’s Uptown district are visible to the South, as well as Steamboat Rock and Wilson Mountain, following this gently winding trail in a North-Easterly direction. Find Pinon Pine and Juniper trees, along with cactus, including prickly pear, agave, yucca, and hedgehog. The trail crosses a few dry creek beds (may have running water after rains or snow). This hike offers a moderate workout, as it is not steep, rather mellow inclines and declines. About 3 miles down it meets up with the Wilson Mountain trail, where you may continue left or right. We chose to turn around here, making it a 6-mile roundtrip out and back hike. Fabulous Spring day on a beautiful Sedona trail!