Ruins, Supai Pools, and Solitude In Woods Canyon // Sedona's Hidden Crown Jewel

It wasn't until recently that I learned about Woods Canyon. I was playing around on google earth and noticed this 20 mile long canyon just east of Sedona in Munds Mountain Wilderness. For whatever reason, it went under my radar. Its just not talked about. Not even the very few locals that have made the traverse seems to talk about it, as if it is forbidden, and meant to keep hidden. There is a Woods Canyon trail but only takes you 5 miles in the mouth of the canyon missing out on the rest of the 15 miles of canyon. After doing the traverse I now know why it is seldom traveled. It is very difficult to traverse. Basically Woods Canyon is non stop rock and boulder hopping with short breaks only to swim through the narrows and supai pools. We spotted untouched ruins, pristine bird nests with one housing two birds that just hatched as they waited for the other two eggs to hatch. It still holds true; Places very difficult for humans to reach, remain the most wild, organic, and beautiful. I am grateful to be in good enough shape to make the trek.