The previous 2 days saw rainfall in the Sedona & Verde Valley areas. In spite of this, the trail dried well overnight and was in excellent condition.  Many wildflowers were in bloom, especially at lower elevations, north of the wash that parallels the roadway.  Included in the floral beauty were many cactus blooms; prickly pear and small barrel cactus.  I started the hike at about 8:15 am while conditions were sunny and cool.  Parking was plentiful at the Doe Mt/Bear Mt. TH parking area; this was not the case when I returned from the hike at 11:30am!

I’ve hiked this trail on two prior occasions.  The first time, several years ago, we got off the main trail several times due to poor markings. – This time it was easy to follow due to the fact that someone had recently retouched the white arrow/blaze marks on the trail.  I’m not sure that this is sanctioned by the USFS, but it was certainly helpful to remain on the established trail.

I reached the summit in just over 1.5 hours.  The view was not as spectacular as it was the last time I hiked Bear Mt. (FEB 2018).  Clouds and haze prevented views of the San Francisco peaks to the north.  Scenery to the south and west was decent.

Overall, a glorious day to hike.  The sunshine was warm, although the air was relatively cool (but humid by Arizona standards).