Merry-Go-Round Arch

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 Merry-Go-Round Rock is a popular stop for hikers heading up the Munds Wagon system trail. This interesting formation is named for the flat surface of Ft. Apache Limestone that wraps around a cap of sandstone, making it resemble an old fashioned Merry-Go-Round (SHOWN BELOW).

Merry-Go-Round Rock as seen from Schnebly Hill Rd. 

On the southeast side of the formation several limestone arches and pedestals have formed, creating a Top 20 photo location (SHOWN BELOW) that is frequently used by local wedding photographers, since it is also possible to drive almost right to this location in a high clearance 4x4 on Schnebly Hill Rd.

 Merry-Go-Round Arch is popular with photographers.

The views of the Cow Pies, Mitten Ridge, Munds Mountain and Uptown Sedona are spectacular, to say the least. Above the layer of limestone is the sandstone cap that forms the top of the Merry-Go-Round (shown below).

Above the arch is the sandstone cap which forms the top of the Merry-Go-Round.

FINDING THE TRAILHEAD

Hikers can reach Merry-Go-Round Rock via the Munds Wagon Trail, which can be accessed from several parking areas along Schnebly Hill Rd. Only the first one can be reached without a high clearance 4x4.
 
From the junction of Hwy 89A and 179 (the double roundabout), take Hwy 179 south, cross the bridge over Oak Creek, and exit left onto Schnebly Hill Rd at the next roundabout.
 
 
Take the paved portion of Schnebly Hill Rd approximately .5 miles to the paved parking area on the left just before the road turns to dirt. A Red Rock Pass or America the Beautiful Pass is required to park here. If you have a high clearance 4x4 you can park free of charge higher up on Schnebly Hill.

 

HIKE DETAILS

RATED
Moderate due to distance and elevation gain.

TOTAL DISTANCE FROM PAVED PARKING
6.14 miles roundtrip

ELEVATION GAIN
990 ft

EST HIKING TIME
5 hrs roundtrip

BEST TIME TO GO
Sep-May. There is very little shade on this trail.

PET FRIENDLY
Yes. Must be leashed. Please
pick up after your pet.