For some of the most expansive views of Sedona the Hangover Loop trail (with Cow Pies and Munds Wagon) is a must-do hike that takes you across varying topography and unique geologic formations.
The Hangover Loop trail (with Cow Pies and Munds Wagon) is a 8.5 mile lollipop loop and is considered moderate. Since it’s over 8 miles, not everybody can manage this, and there is some moderate elevation gain with light scrambling. But this is one of the easier hikes considering the expansive views you’ll be rewarded with. For comparison, you’ll do half the elevation as Wilson but the same amount of distance. This took us just under 4 hours, with a few water stops and some time at the viewpoints to take some pictures. Dogs can take this hike, but keep in mind there are some scrambling sections that may be challenging for your four-legged friends.
Note that there are multiple junctions for this hike. We recommend doing the full lollipop since there is a lot of gorgeous diversity on this hike. But if you’re strapped for time or prefer shorter distances, we suggest prioritizing the Hangover section for the spectacular views. We did the loop clockwise but the majority of folks do counter-clockwise which saves the views for the end.
Details:
Directions (Google Maps): To get to the Hangover Loop trail, search for the Munds Wagon Trail in Sedona, Arizona or click here.
Directions (old school maps): From Sedona, get off Highway 89 and take the roundabout for Highway 179. At the next roundabout you’ll turn left onto Schnebly Hill Road, and you’ll hit the parking lot on the left. If the road starts to get real bumpy, you’ve gone too far, as this is a popular off-roading area where you’ll see jeep tours.
Driving Info: This is all paved so it’s accessible to anybody. But as mentioned, Schnebly Hill Road is a off-roading destination, so if you get to the bumpy parts you’ve gone too far.
Time & Weather: We did this hike in mid March. Since it’s Arizona desert it can be painfully hot or cold. We had perfect 60 degree hiking weather for most of the hike. In the morning when the sun is behind the mountains is can be quite chilly. But you’ll eventually ascend into the light and warm up fairly quickly.
Gear: You want solid boots with grip for this hike since you’ll do some light scrambling and hike around the rim of the mountains. Hiking poles are always recommended, especially if your knees struggle with distance or on sharp ascents and descents.
Trail Navigation: Since this lollipop hike combines multiple trails it’s helpful to understand the junctions. We highly recommend doing this as the full lollipop since it’s a beautiful and diverse hike.
Water & Food: As is the case for any desert hike, bring plenty of water and stay hydrated. Bring snacks to enjoy at the various viewpoints.
Trailhead Info: The parking lot is large but definitely fills up on weekends.
Pictures of the Hangover Loop, Cow Pies and Munds Wagon Trail:
Since we started in the morning we were in the shade, which can be chilly in winter. But the views off to your left are captivating.
One of the many junctions. We took the Hangover Trail and hiked clockwise.
You’ll cut around the base of the mountains and start to break right as you ascend.
Now begins some of the light scrambling up the rocks before you break left around the mountain. Follow the white dots on the rocks for help navigating.
Here’s some of the slanted trail that cuts around the mountain. This is why good boots with grip are essential.
Jaw-dropping views towards Sedona as you curve around the mountain.
Before you turn the corner, look back towards the forest valley for more amazing views.
Some of the rocky trail that curves around the mountain. With such stunning views it’s important to stay focused on your footing since some sections of trail can get tight.
As you finish the curve around the side of the mountain you’ll get to the opening, another great spot for water and snacks.
Here is the flat opening. You came from the right side of this photo and will start to descend on the left.
The descent can be tricky, so keep a lookout for the white dots or consult a map to understand the proper route down.
Once you descend a bit more you’ll break left and take in more of the valley views.
Arrive at Cow Pies and hike out across the vast flat rocks (hence ‘cow pies’) overlooking the valley.
Looking up and to the left are these towering sandstone formations.
The hike gets a bit easier in this section of the Munds Wagon trail, just be mindful or larger rocks on the trail.
One of the many jeep tours you’re likely to encounter in this section. Personally, our least favorite part of this hike.
As you get closer to the beginning of the trail you criss-cross through the carved out creeks.
The final portion is what you already traversed. Enjoy as the sun has likely altered the shadows and beautiful views around you.
This is one of the many trails that makes it onto our list of the best hikes in Sedona. If you have limited time be sure to check it out so that you can prioritize properly.
