Backpack Bear Mountain in Sedona - Dog Friendly - Rating: Solid Workout

The hike to the top of the mountain is mostly unshaded, steep and difficult in places. Great views the whole way. The trail begins at a broad path at the parking area, crosses two washes and then starts a gradual ascent 1/4 mile to the wilderness boundary at the base of the mountain. The trail narrows and begins a 450 foot switchback that is steep and rocky in places. It levels out following narrow plateau area and then begins a steep rocky 500 foot climb in a narrow side canyon to a broad plateau. It crosses the plateau gradually ascending, dips down, and then climbs another 400 feet to a false summit. Fay canyon views are to the right (northeast). The trail continues a moderate climb to true summit. There are great panoramic views here. Continue over level ground another 200 yards to the Red Canyon overlook and a view of the San Francisco Peaks in the distance to the north. Return by the same route. Do not attempt this hike when there is significant snow on the mountain.
- fs.usda.gov

I did this as a dayhike a while back and thought it would make a nice backpack with the caviot that we have to carry all the water. Hence the rating that this thing will be a workout.

The Plan:
Saturday, Nov 22nd: 10 am meet at the Doe Mountain Trailhead in Sedona. There is a parking fee (Red Rocks pass). We'll take our time hiking up this mountain. 2000 feet in 2.5 miles. We'll set up camp at the top and enjoy the views. We should be able to have a fire at night.

Sunday, Nov 23rd: We'll hike out the same way we came in. We can have lunch in Sedona if people are up for it.

Details:
Distance: ~5 miles (round trip)
AEG: 2000+ feet
Difficulty: Intermediate to Advanced
Dogs: Yes
Kids: Yes
Water: NONE - you have to carry all your water!

Fee:
$2 to cover Meetup costs. Send me moneys via PayPal or Zelle (gorlewicz@gmail.com) or bring cash to the TH.

Disclaimer:
The planned hike is listed above, but the goup's ability takes precedence. If I think someone may not make it for whatever reason (injury, out of shape, solar flares, etc...) I'll change the plan and do my best to tailor the trip to the groups wants and capabilities.
I will not leave you stranded in the middle of the trail.

Writeups/Maps/GPX:
https://hikearizona.com/decoder.php?ZTN=310

Recommended Gear List:
- Water for the entire trip (this means 4 Liters/Quarts for someone weighing 100 - 200 lbs, you weigh more, ring more water) and some way to treat/filter water.
- First aid kit.
- Backpack... duh.
- Sleeping bag, Tent, hammock.
- Clothing: I recommend one set of hiking and one set of sleeping clothes.
- Small dish towel. This comes in very handy.
- Toiletries (toothbrush, paste, deo and quick dissolving toilet paper).
- Headlamp.
- Utensils for the food.
- Food: you must feed yourself.