Bell Rock Scramble

Bell Rock Scramble is a fun hike that indeed requires a bit of easy/moderate scrambling to reach the top. Note that this isn't a route to the true summit, as reaching it requires technical climbing, but rather to one of the spires below. Nonetheless, the view from here is fantastic. Begin by parking at the Bell Rock Trailhead and following the well traveled Bell Rock Pathway toward the rock. The trail here is well marked with gabions (metal mesh cages filled with rocks) and easy to follow. Continue heading toward Bell Rock and follow the "Bell Rock Climb" sign. A few cairns mark the way as you start up the north side of the rock, but they soon peter out. You'll need to find your own route up from here! The best route follows a backward 'S' shape up the rock, heading first to the left, then back to the right along a ledge, before finally heading back to the left and climbing a bit steeply up to the spire. Regardless of which route you take (there are several, choose the route that looks best to you and have fun!) the views from the top are fantastic. You'll be able to see Highway 179 to the north toward Sedona, and have an impressive up-close view of Courthouse Butte. Use caution on the descent and return via the same route back to the trailhead.