The Grandview to New Hance Loop is a popular hiking trail in Sedona, Arizona, renowned for its breathtaking views of the surrounding red rock formations and the opportunity to explore two of Sedona's most iconic trails—Grandview Trail andHance Trail—all in one rewarding journey. This intermediate-level trail offers a challenging yet rewarding experience, making it a must-do for outdoor enthusiasts visiting the area.
The loop spans approximately 8.3 miles, with an elevation gain of about 1,600 feet, making it a full-day adventure. The loop generally follows a clockwise direction, starting and ending at the Jordan Trailhead. However, if you're short on time, each trail can be hiked independently as well.
The Grandview Trail: A Challenging Start
The Grandview Trail kicks off the loop with a bang, offering a strenuous climb up to Wilson Mountain. The trailhead is located at the Jordan Trailhead parking lot, with clear signage indicating the start of the Grandview Trail.
The initial ascent is steep and demanding, with several switchbacks that lead you through scenic pine forests and open expanses offering glimpses of the surrounding red rock landscape. As you gain elevation, the panoramic views become increasingly impressive, providing a sneak peek of what's to come on the rest of the loop.
Finding Balance: Grandview's Incline and Decline
The Grandview Trail's most challenging aspect is undoubtedly its steep incline and descent. While the initial climb can be daunting, taking it slow and steady will help you conquer it. The trail's elevation loss in the latter half, as you descend from Wilson Mountain towards the Soldier's Pass Trail, is equally challenging, requiring careful footing to preserve your knees and energy.
Despite the challenging terrain, the Grandview Trail's payoff is substantial. The trail's namesake views from the top are simply stunning, offering a 360-degree vista of the Verde Valley and the iconic red rock formations ofUpper and Lower Diamond Head.
Wilson Mountain: A High Point of the Loop
The summit of Wilson Mountain is a popular turnaround point for many hikers, offering a well-deserved rest spot after the taxing climb. Look for the rock pile marking the high point, and take a moment to appreciate the vast, awe-inspiring landscape before you as you catch your breath.
From Wilson Mountain, you have the option to add an additional side trip to explore the ancient ruins and granaries hidden within the cliffs along Wilson Mountain Wash. This detour adds about a mile to your hike but is well worth it for history buffs and those interested in Sedona's rich cultural heritage.
Hance Trail: A Mellow Counterpart
After descending from Wilson Mountain, the Hance Trail provides a more gentle, albeit still captivating, counterpart to the Grandview Trail. The trail begins at theSoldier's Pass Trailhead and follows the drainage of Soldier's Pass Wash, offering consistently beautiful views and occasional glimpses of woodpecker activity and wildflowers.
The Hance Trail is an aesthetically pleasing contrast to the Grandview Trail, trading in its steep climbs and descents for a more leisurely, winding path that meanders through lush vegetation and opens up to wide-open spaces. This relative ease doesn't make it any less of an engaging hike, however, with plenty of intriguing geology and ecology to keep your eyes and mind occupied.
Soldier's Pass: A Picturesque Interlude
The Hance Trail's most notable highlight is its intersection withSoldier's Pass Trail, a leisurely connector that transects the Soldier's Pass drainage. Here, you'll encounter the picturesque Soldier's Pass Arch, a natural sandstone arch spanning the width of the trail, and the intriguing twin fins of Devil's Kitchen, a popular scrambling spot for more adventurous hikers.
Soldier's Pass itself is a unique geological feature, formed by the erosion of an ancient landslide. The broad, flat valley offers an interesting contrast to the rest of the loop's rugged terrain, showcasing the forces that shape Sedona's landscapes over time.
Connecting the Dots: Return to Jordan Trailhead
The final stretch of the Hance Trail winds through the Fourth of July Trailhead turnout and connects back to the Jordan Trailhead, where your journey began. This final leg of the loop offers a chance to reflect on the adventure you've just completed, taking in one last round of stunning views as you near the end of the trail.
Back at the trailhead, you'll earn a well-deserved rest and a sense of accomplishment, knowing you've conquered one of Sedona's most stunning trails. The Grandview to New Hance Loop isn't just a hike; it's an experience that immerses you in the region's captivating beauty and challenges you to push your limits. So lace up your hiking boots, grab your water bottle, and get ready to explore—your Sedona adventure awaits!