Gordon Cantor’s Epic 500 Ascents of Bear Mountain

Gordon Cantor has achieved a remarkable milestone: his 500th ascent of Bear Mountain, standing at 6,494 feet. This feat was completed on March 20, and he may very well be the only one from Sedona to reach such a figure since relocating in 2018.

“I really don’t know if other people have done that,” Cantor remarked. “There are a few other enthusiasts who hike regularly, but I couldn’t find clear information online.”

Previously a neurologist in Manhattan, Cantor moved to Sedona with his wife, Antigoni Axenidou, who formerly directed the General Legal Division of the UN’s Office of Legal Affairs. Their decision to retire in Sedona came after years of vacationing in the West.

“I became interested in hiking in my late 30s,” he explained. “I cajoled my wife into moving out West with me after we bought our house in 2010, eventually relocating in 2018.”

Interestingly, his transformation from running to hiking was motivated by health concerns. “I developed knee issues running in New York and thought hiking might ease the strain,” he laughed. Initially tracking his hikes for fun, Cantor soon realized his ascents were adding up significantly.

As for his health, Cantor reports that the physical activity has generally benefited him. “I have my aches and pains, like everyone else, but I find I can often hike through them. Remarkably, my knee has improved over time.”

Why Bear Mountain? Its unique blend of challenge and proximity makes it Cantor’s favorite trek. “It’s pretty difficult, providing a solid workout, and the views along the way are stunning,” he said. With a 2,000-foot elevation gain, the hike offers both a physical challenge and a rewarding experience.

While he enjoys hiking solo these days, friends occasionally join him. “Many friends have shied away from Bear Mountain, given my faster pace,” he noted with a chuckle. Nonetheless, on the day of his milestone ascent, friends gathered to celebrate at the trailhead.

“Though no one hiked with me, I was pleasantly surprised to find a group of friends waiting for me. We shared a drink and headed out for dinner afterward. One dear friend even gifted me a custom Bear Mountain trailhead sign,” Cantor shared.

Rather than slowing down, Cantor has continued to climb, reaching 504 ascents by March 31. “Almost everybody smiles on the way down; it’s truly a good time,” he remarked, underscoring the joy of the experience.