Mormon Misfit

Hidden Just below the tallest summit in Sedona,Az is Wilson Mountains "Mormon Misfit". This is a backcountry adventure that will require cliffaneering, bushwhacking, steep downclimbs, buddy assist, anchor building, routefinding skills, and danger of loose rock and debris. Total elevation loss is over 2,100 feet, and route descends over 2050 feet from rapp 1 to canyon floor. Panoramic views, Mini- spires, Keyhole pour-outs, scenic caves, and free hanging rappels are your reward on this scenic yet strenuous adventure. The most remarkable feature of this route is the keyhole pour out, and large cave which we named Mesa Vista Hollow. Be sure to take a break and soak up the views at the cave which rest 1200' above the canyon floor and can only be accessed via Mormon Misfit Canyon. The PG rating is for the dense patches of brush encountered on steep terrain, combined with technical down climbs on loose rock. This route was created for those who crave rugged adventure and exploration. Not for the casual rappeler or those new to canyoneering. Wear protective layers.

Park your shuttle vehicle at the Jordan rd Brins Mesa Trailhead. Park at Midgley Bridge and Hike the Wilson mountain trail. Take trail to the Sedona overlook. Once at overlook follow faint social trail to the South Western Summit of Wilson Mountain (Peak 6742). The Social trail is very faint and there is a short scramble to the summit. From the summit navigate through catclaw and agave on the steep ridge, heading west to the drop in point.

R1 50' off tree. Pack rope and continue LDC toward spire. Down climb into crack LDC. Once you come out of crack, down climb RDC at drop. R2 80' off tree down chute. R3 30' off tree. optional down climb. R4 65' off of tree. R5 40' off tree into keyhole pour-out. Check out the cave on the right Mesa Vista Hollow, with sweeping views of Brins Mesa and red rock spires. R6 200' off tree. Three stage, overhung. Watch for cactus on second ledge. First man down recommended trail rope before dropping into a clearing. Potential of tossing the rope into a tree or cactus. Immediately after bypass next drop RDC . R7 15' tree RDC . R8 30 ' off tree. to ledge. R9 120' slick rock off big tree. Midway between R9 and R10, downclimb 25’ LDC. R10 160' 2 stage. BOLTS RDC on edge.