Vultee Arch Trail

Access to the Vultee Arch Trailhead can be challenging. The easiest approach is via a high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicle on Forest Road 152, which can be primitive and rough. This route leads directly to the trailhead, offering a shorter, easier path to the arch. Alternatively, you can start from the Dry Creek trailhead, which involves a longer journey to reach the arch.

The suitability for jogging beginners depends heavily on the chosen route. If you can access the Vultee Arch Trailhead directly with a 4x4, the 3.4-mile roundtrip to the arch is considered easier, with flatter sections along a streambed that might be suitable for casual jogging. However, other approaches, especially combining it with the Sterling Pass Trail, involve significant elevation gain and rugged terrain, making them difficult and not recommended for beginners.

Yes, there are two main approaches. The most direct route involves reaching the Vultee Arch Trailhead via a rough 4x4 road (Forest Road 152), leading to a 3.4-mile roundtrip hike to the arch. This is the easier option. The more challenging route combines the Sterling Pass Trail with the Vultee Arch Trail, involving significant elevation gain (over a thousand feet) and numerous switchbacks, rated as difficult. This longer, more strenuous option offers a diverse ecosystem experience.

The primary attraction is the stunning Vultee Arch itself, a natural sandstone bridge stretching about 50 feet overhead. Along the trail, you'll experience diverse landscapes, including Ponderosa pines, alligator bark junipers, spruce, oak, maple, Douglas fir, agave, yucca, and manzanita. You'll also get panoramic views of impressive red rock formations like Brins Mesa, Wilson Mountain, and the rugged peaks of the Secret Mountain Wilderness.

Yes, the route primarily follows the Vultee Arch Trail #22. Depending on your starting point, it can also intersect with sections of the Sterling Pass #46 and the Dry Creek #52 trails. The Sterling Pass Trail is a common, albeit more challenging, way to access the arch.

The trail is generally dog-friendly, but dogs should be kept on a leash. Be aware that some sections, especially on the Sterling Pass approach, can be rugged and steep, which might be challenging for some dogs. Also, wildlife, including bears, has been reported in the area, so always be vigilant.

The best time to jog this trail is typically during the spring and fall when temperatures are milder. Summer can be very hot, making early morning or late afternoon jogs preferable. Winter offers cooler temperatures but can sometimes bring snow, especially at higher elevations, which might make some sections slippery or impassable.

Yes, a Red Rock Pass or an America the Beautiful Pass is required for parking at many trailheads within the Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness, including those that provide access to this trail. You can find more information on fees and where to purchase passes on the USDA Forest Service website.

The terrain is diverse. Sections along the streambed are relatively flat, meandering through forests. However, other parts, especially near the arch and on the Sterling Pass approach, involve steep ascents and descents, rocky paths, and switchbacks. The path near the arch itself can be steep and rocky, requiring some scrambling to climb onto the arch.

You'll find rich wildlife and diverse plant life. The trail meanders through groves of spruce, oak, maple, Douglas fir, and ponderosa pines, along with agave, yucca, and manzanita. Wildlife sightings can include various birds, small mammals, and occasionally larger animals like deer or even bear prints, as reported by some users.

The Vultee Arch Trail generally offers a more peaceful and secluded experience compared to more popular Sedona trails like Devil's Bridge. This is largely due to the challenging access to its trailhead, which deters some visitors. If you're seeking tranquility and a backcountry feel, this trail is a good option.