Schnebly Hill Road
Difficulty: Moderate.
Description: Towering red rock buttes set against a backdrop of deep-green forest and clear blue sky make this road one of Arizona’s most photogenic. The road climbs over 2,200 feet from Sedona to the top of massive Mogollon Rim. Memorable hiking trails depart from several places along the road, and dispersed camping is allowed above Vista Point. The drive is impressive in either direction. Elk may be seen before sunset. Mountain bikers looking for an easy day will enjoy the ride down. If you park, hike, or stop along the route, you’ll need a Red Rocks Pass. Signs recommend only trucks or off-highway vehicles, but cars (not low-slung) can make it in good weather. Although the road is wide and well-maintained, expect a bumpy ride. Much of the lower portion is a shelf road. This road is closed during the winter.
Time & Distance: About 12 miles one way. The road can be driven in an hour but allow much more time, you’ll want to stop many times.
Trail Conditions: Coconino National Forest, Red Rock Ranger District. Call (928) 203-7500.
Remember: trail conditions, fire restrictions, weather, and land ownership change constantly so everyone must take responsibility for themselves, both for their safety and complying with all laws. Please understand that means YOU.
Directions to the Trail:
From the bottom: From the intersection of Highways 89A and 179 in Sedona, drive south 0.4 miles on Hwy 179. Turn left immediately after crossing the Oak Creek Bridge on a well marked paved road.
From the top: Get off I-17 at exit 320 and head west on a short paved road. Bear left on a well marked dirt road at the first turn.
View Schnebly Hill Road in a larger map for even more DETAILS!
Get yourself and your rig ready for the trip: Make sure both you and your vehicle are prepared for your next adventure.
Before you venture out on your offroading trip you need to make sure you are prepared for emergencies. Even if nothing happens to you or your vehicle, you might come across someone who needs help. Short of having your full-on bug-out-bag with you, you should at least have some basic emergency items. It might seem obvious to some, but you should get yourself a tool box with appropriate tools and leather gloves, good first aid kit, fire extinguisher, set of jumper cables, emergency blankets (stored in heavy plastic bag – both are useful), flashlight, tow strap and some extra water. I would also suggest a recovery strap, a military folding shovel, heavy duty garbage bags, and a hand crank self powered weather radio. These items are not expensive, but they just might save your day.
Another thing you should definitely do before you leave is to save the number to Arizona 4×4 Off Road Recovery in case you find yourself in need of recovery in the middle of nowhere. Their number is (602) 697-8306.
If you’re ready for a next adventure and want to plan it right, check out some of these trail guides – Arizona has so many awesome destinations to explore!
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