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GPS Track

Midgley Bridge across Wilson Creek Canyon at end of Jim Thompson Trail 4 couple of miles north of Sedona

Dec 14, 2023

Jim Thompson (Trail #124) connects top of Jordan Road and Midgley Bridge on Hwy 89A.  Undemanding and very scenic it follows old roadbed rounding east slopes of Steamboat Rock.  There are several highlights but main one is probably famous Midgley Steel Truss bridge, very photogenic from west side most tourists don't see.  Trail can be cycled or hiked.  Jordan trailhead is much better start as Midgley side parking is super busy and space is almost impossible to find.  Compared with some other easy Sedona trails, Jim Thompson still doesn't see much traffic - on my trip I had it to myself.  After ~1.5hr of casual pace and lunch break at Picnic area I hiked briefly lower ridge of Mt. Wilson before descending to Wilson Canyon and reconnecting with Jim Thompson - see Gallery.  

Extensions include exploration of Wilson Canyon (add ~1hr) or scramble to plateau below Steamboat Rock (class 3;  top is technical).   Steamboat junction is not marked;  use GPS Track (Waypoint "1 - Steamboat Junction"), download Top of Page.  Add min 2 hrs for Steamboat.   Jim Thompson can also be used as alternate Mt. Wilson approach because of busy Midgley trailhead parking area.  This would be quite a long day;  my suggestion is to climb Wilson from north side, and simply enjoy Jim Thompson on its own with relaxed pace.  Very satisfying option is return via Huckaby (Trail #161) following east side of Oak Creek to Schnebly Hill Road, but this requires 2 vehicles.

Gallery

Mitten Ridge Great easterly views of Mitten Ridge and Munds Wilderness

Midgley Bridge Viewpoint below Midgley Picnic Area.  This is also north end of Huckaby Trail which starts at Schneby Hill Road