HIKE OF THE MONTH

of the month hike 'Rock Stars' Highlight the Stellar Views From BRINS MESA TRAIL, a Spectacular Trek in the Sedona Area

THE BRINS MESA TRAIL BEGINS mere blocks from Uptown Sedona, climbing 1.5 miles to a tabletop aerie sandwiched between Brins Ridge and Wilson Mountain. The highlight of this hike is the view, and Sedona's red rock landmarks play starring roles. The 1-mile point where the real climb begins offers an ideal turnaround for novices, while the strong of lung might take on the steep half mile to the mesa's edge. The trail, which begins at the gate to the old shooting range, winds through fresh-scented cypress and piñon. Manzanita bushes line the route; their entwined maroonand-silver branches hang with delicate pink-and-white bells in spring, becoming tiny rust-colored "apples" by fall. Despite the lush vegetation, the wide trail conveys an open feeling. Dominating to the north and east are Shiprock, with its triangular "sail" of cream-colored Coconino sandstone; Steamboat, whose "smokestacks" tower above a sandstone prow of reddish orange; and the long ridge called The Fin. As the trail meanders toward the mesa (a flat expanse sloping up to the north), the Cibola Mitten and Brins Ridge guard the western flank. At a low spot, about three-quarters of a mile along, the trail forks. The left fork continues the climb to Brins Mesa, named in memory of a wily brindle-colored bull that evaded roundup on the mesa's high pastures. As the story goes, a pair of cowboys finally roped Old Brin, but he dragged them into the brush. Rather than continue the struggle, they shot him.

After about 25 minutes at a good clip, hikers reach a series of natural red rock steps leading up to a broad bench in the Schnebly Hill formation, a perfect spot to pause, catch their breath and identify more of Sedona's "rock stars." Snoopy and Camel Head overlook Uptown Sedona and sycamore tree-studded Oak Creek Canyon. Farther south loom the mirror-image Twin Buttes. Sharp-eyed hikers may spot Gibraltar, Courthouse and Bell Rock peeking out from behind them. To the south-east rises Mitten Ridge, incorporating Giant's Thumb and Teapot Rock.

Closer, at the base of the highest peak in Sedona 7,122-foot basalt-crowned Wilson Mountain stand several red rock spires. One of the largest, Earth Angel, appears with wings folded and hands in a prayerful position. Those who want a short This hike should turn around here. For others, who share Old Brin's love of heights and open spaces, the rocky trail ascends steeply but rewards with stunning views in every direction. The grassy mesa spreads out and invites exploration, a pleas-ant surprise after the hard climb. From there I once watched a misty ephemeral waterfall dancing in the wind, a rare but stirring sight created by spring melt plunging from high on Wilson Mountain.With a good map and a car shuttle, experienced hikers can plan variations with connecting trails or simply return to the original trailhead. Surrounded by the stars in Sedona's fantasy landscape, it's easy to understand why even a grumpy old bull wouldn't want to leave. AH To enjoy this hike with the Friends of Arizona Highways on Saturday, March 10, contact the organization at (602) 712-2004. The number of participants will be limited.

GETTING THERE: From Uptown Sedona, take Jordan Road north; turn left onto West Park Ridge Drive, which ends at a dirt parking area. A sign indi-cates Brins Mesa No. 119.

TRAVEL ADVISORY: Parking on national forest land in Red Rock Country requires purchase of a Red Rock Pass, available at four visitor centers in the Sedona vicinity. Stay on the trail and be respectful ful of nearby private property. The trail can be hiked year-round, though spring and fall feel most comfortable.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Sedona Ranger District, P.O. Box 300, Sedona, AZ 86339; (520) 282-4119. Parking pass information, (520) 282-4119; www.redrockcountry.org.