Sedona, Arizona is known for its stunning natural beauty and is a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. With so many hiking trails to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which ones to tackle during your visit. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best hiking trails in Sedona, complete with trail attributes, tips, and everything you need to know to plan your adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner, there’s a trail on this list for you. So grab your hiking boots and let’s explore the breathtaking scenery of Sedona together!
Cathedral Rock Trail
Trail Length: 1.5 Miles Roundtrip | Difficulty Level: Difficult | Elevation Gain: 600 Feet | Trailhead: Back O’ Beyond Road Parking Area
Cathedral Rock Trail is a scenic hiking trail located in Sedona, Arizona, known for its stunning red rock formations and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. This trail is a moderate to strenuous hike, offering a challenging but rewarding experience for adventurous hikers. Cathedral Rock is also considered a spiritual vortex, attracting many visitors seeking to connect with the energy of the land. With its accessibility, memorable sunsets, and unique features, Cathedral Rock Trail is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Sedona.
Reasons to Hike Cathedral Rock Trail:
- Scenic Beauty: Cathedral Rock Trail offers breathtaking views of the iconic Cathedral Rock formation, which is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Sedona. The trail takes you through stunning red rock landscapes and provides ample opportunities for amazing photographs.
- Challenging and Rewarding: This trail is known for its moderate to strenuous difficulty level, making it a great choice for adventurous hikers. The steep sections and rocky terrain offer a challenging but rewarding experience, with panoramic views awaiting you at the top.
- Spiritual Energy: Cathedral Rock is considered a spiritual vortex in Sedona, known for its powerful energy. Many hikers visit this trail for its spiritual significance and the opportunity to connect with nature and the surrounding energy.
- Accessibility: Located just a short drive from downtown Sedona, Cathedral Rock Trail is easily accessible. It’s a popular choice for both locals and tourists due to its convenient location and the chance to experience the beauty of Sedona’s red rock landscape.
- Memorable Sunsets: Cathedral Rock Trail is a prime spot for witnessing stunning sunsets. As the day draws to a close, the vibrant colors of the sky reflecting on the red rocks create a magical ambiance that makes this trail an unforgettable experience.
Recommended Gear: Hiking Boots,
Devil’s Bridge Trail
Trail Length: 4.2 Miles Roundtrip | Difficulty Level: Moderate | Elevation Gain: 400 feet | Trailhead: Dry Creek Road Parking Area
Devil’s Bridge Trail in Sedona, Arizona, is an iconic hiking adventure that takes you on a captivating journey through the mesmerizing beauty of the red rock landscape. This moderate 4.2-mile roundtrip trail leads you to the famous Devil’s Bridge, a natural sandstone arch offering awe-inspiring vistas. With its varied terrain and stunning views, Devil’s Bridge Trail is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and hikers seeking a memorable experience in Sedona’s breathtaking wilderness.
Reasons to Hike Devil’s Bridge Trail:
- Spectacular Views: Devil’s Bridge Trail offers stunning panoramic views of Sedona’s famous red rock formations and the surrounding wilderness.
- Unique Natural Feature: The highlight of the trail is the natural sandstone bridge, which is one of the largest natural arches in Sedona and a popular spot for taking photos.
- Moderate Difficulty: The trail is not too difficult, with a gradual incline and a relatively short distance of 1.8 miles (2.9 km) each way, making it accessible to most hikers.
- Variety of Terrain: The trail offers a mix of terrain, including sandy washes, slickrock, and rocky sections, which keeps the hike interesting and engaging.
- Accessibility: The trailhead is easily accessible and has plenty of parking, making it a convenient and popular option for visitors to Sedona.
Recommended Gear: Hiking Boots, Sunscreen, Hat, Sunglasses, Water Bottle, Snacks, Camera
West Fork Trail
Trail Length: 6.4 Miles Roundtrip | Difficulty Level: Moderate | Elevation Gain: 200 feet | Trailhead: Call of the Canyon Parking Area
West Fork Trail is a scenic hiking trail located in Coconino National Forest in Sedona, Arizona. This moderate 6.4-mile roundtrip trail takes you on a journey through a picturesque canyon, where you’ll cross over Oak Creek multiple times and experience breathtaking scenery along the way. With its stunning views, unique river crossings, and varied terrain, West Fork Trail is a popular hiking destination for nature enthusiasts seeking an immersive outdoor experience in Sedona.
Reasons to Hike West Fork Trail:
- Stunning Canyon Scenery: West Fork Trail takes you on a journey through a lush, green canyon, surrounded by towering cliffs and rock formations, providing a breathtaking backdrop for your hike.
- Unique River Crossings: The trail crosses over Oak Creek several times, providing a unique and fun experience for hikers as they navigate the creek on stepping stones.
- Varied Terrain: The trail offers a mix of easy walking on level ground, as well as some moderate hiking up and down rocky terrain and over tree roots.
- Abundance of Wildlife: Hikers are likely to spot a variety of wildlife, including birds, lizards, and possibly even a few deer or javelina.
- Historic Interest: The trail winds through the site of an old homestead, which adds an interesting historical dimension to the hike.
Recommended Gear: Hiking Boots, Backpack, Water Bottle, Sunscreen, Hat, Sunglasses, Trail Map
Boynton Canyon Trail
Trail Length: 6.1 Miles Roundtrip | Difficulty Level: Moderate | Elevation Gain: 680 Feet | Trailhead: Boynton Canyon Parking Area
Boynton Canyon Trail is a popular hiking trail located in the beautiful city of Sedona, Arizona. The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding red rock formations and a chance to explore the lush vegetation of the canyon. It’s a moderately difficult trail, making it suitable for hikers of various skill levels. The Boynton Canyon Trail is a must-visit for nature lovers visiting Sedona.
Reasons to Hike Boynton Canyon Trail:
- Spectacular Red Rock Scenery: Boynton Canyon Trail offers stunning views of Sedona’s iconic red rock formations, providing a picturesque backdrop throughout the hike.
- Sacred and Spiritual Significance: The trail passes by ancient Native American ruins and is believed to have spiritual energy, creating a unique and meaningful experience for hikers.
- Abundance of Wildlife: Hikers may encounter various wildlife species along the trail, including birds, deer, and even the occasional glimpse of a coyote or javelina.
- Peaceful and Serene Atmosphere: The trail meanders through quiet and serene surroundings, away from the hustle and bustle of the city, offering a tranquil and rejuvenating hiking experience.
- Varied Difficulty Levels: Boynton Canyon Trail caters to hikers of different skill levels, with options for shorter or longer hikes, making it accessible to a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts.
Recommended Gear: Hiking Boots, Sun Hat, Sunscreen, Insect Repellent, Hydration Pack, Trekking Poles, Energy Bars
Soldiers Pass Trail
Trail Length: 4.2 Miles Roundtrip | Difficulty Level: Moderate | Elevation Gain: 550 Feet | Trailhead: Soldiers Pass Trailhead Parking Lot
Soldiers Pass Trail is a must-do hike in Sedona, Arizona that offers stunning red rock formations, beautiful scenery, and a glimpse into the area’s rich history. This moderate trail covers around 4.2 miles and takes hikers through some of the most picturesque spots in the region, including the famous Devil’s Kitchen sinkhole and the Seven Sacred Pools. With so much to see and explore, Soldiers Pass Trail is an unforgettable hiking experience for outdoor enthusiasts of all skill levels.
Reasons to Hike Soldiers Pass Trail:
- Stunning Rock Formations: The trail offers breathtaking views of the unique rock formations of Sedona, including the Devil’s Kitchen and Brins Mesa.
- Historic Landmarks: The trail takes you through the site of the ancient Native American cliff dwellings of the Sinagua people.
- Wildlife Sightings: The trail is known for wildlife sightings, including various species of birds, lizards, and even the occasional javelina or coyote.
- Accessible Year-Round: The trail can be hiked year-round, making it a great option for visitors to Sedona at any time of the year.
- Off-Road Adventure: The trail is also accessible by a 4×4 vehicle or jeep tour, allowing for a unique off-road adventure and access to remote areas not accessible by foot.
Recommended Gear: Hiking Boots,
Bell Rock Pathway
Trail Length: 3.6 Miles Roundtrip | Difficulty Level: Easy | Elevation Gain: 400 Feet | Trailhead: Bell Rock Vista Parking Area
Soldiers Pass Trail is a popular hiking trail in Sedona, Arizona, known for its stunning views and unique geological features. This trail takes hikers on a journey through the beautiful Red Rock formations, passing by towering spires, natural arches, and hidden caves. With its easy to moderate difficulty level and well-maintained trail, Soldiers Pass Trail is a must-visit destination for any hiking enthusiast.
Reasons To Hike Bell Rock Pathway:
- Iconic Rock Formations: Bell Rock Pathway offers incredible views of the iconic Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte, showcasing the stunning red rock formations that Sedona is famous for.
- Accessible for All Skill Levels: The trail is suitable for hikers of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced trekkers, with various distance options and relatively easy terrain.
- Scenic Beauty: Hiking along Bell Rock Pathway provides opportunities to immerse yourself in the picturesque desert landscape, with panoramic vistas and captivating natural beauty.
- Close Proximity to Sedona: The trail is conveniently located near the town of Sedona, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors looking for an enjoyable outdoor adventure.
- Diverse Recreational Activities: Bell Rock Pathway is not only a great hiking trail but also offers opportunities for mountain biking and horseback riding, adding to its appeal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking different recreational experiences.
Recommended Gear: Hiking Boots, Sunscreen, Hat, Water Bottle, Tekking Poles, Snacks, First Aid Kit
Broken Arrow Trail
Trail Length: 3.3 Miles Roundtrip | Difficulty Level: Moderate | Elevation Gain: 400 Feet | Trailhead: End of Morgan Road
Broken Arrow Trail is a popular hiking destination in Sedona, Arizona known for its stunning red rock formations and panoramic views. The trail offers a moderate level of difficulty, making it suitable for most hikers. The trailhead is easily accessible and there are several photo opportunities along the way, including the famous “Submarine Rock” and “Chicken Point”.
Reasons To Hike Broken Arrrow Trail:
- Iconic Red Rock Scenery: The trail offers stunning views of the red rock formations that Sedona is famous for, including Bell Rock and Cathedral Rock.
- Accessibility: Broken Arrow Trail is accessible to hikers of all levels, with a relatively easy grade and well-maintained path.
- Off-Road Adventures: The trailhead also serves as a starting point for off-road jeep tours, making it a popular destination for adventurers.
- Unique Rock Formations: The trail features unique rock formations, including the famous “Submarine Rock” and “Chicken Point”.
- Wildlife Sightings: Hikers may spot a variety of wildlife along the trail, including birds, lizards, and even the occasional javelina or bobcat.
Recommended Gear: Hiking Boots, Sunscreen, Hat, Water Bottle, Trekking Poles, Camera, Snacks
Courthouse Butte Loop
Courthouse Butte Loop is a popular hiking trail in Sedona, Arizona, known for its scenic beauty and unique rock formations. The 4.2-mile loop trail offers hikers stunning views of the surrounding red rock formations, and is rated as moderate in difficulty, making it suitable for hikers of all levels. With plenty of opportunities for photography and sightseeing, this trail is a must-visit for anyone exploring Sedona
Reasons to Hike Courthouse Butte Loop:
- Scenic Views: Courthouse Butte Loop offers breathtaking views of the red rock formations, including Bell Rock and Cathedral Rock.
- Varied Terrain: The trail offers a mix of terrain, from easy and flat to rocky and challenging, making it suitable for hikers of different skill levels.
- Wildlife Viewing: Hikers may spot various wildlife, such as birds, lizards, and sometimes even coyotes.
- Accessibility: The trail is easily accessible, with a convenient trailhead and ample parking.
- Great for Photography: With the stunning views and diverse landscape, Courthouse Butte Loop is a popular destination for photographers looking to capture the beauty of Sedona.
Recommended Gear: Hiking Boots, Sunscreen, Hat, Water Bottle, Trekking Poles, Camera, Snacks
Fay Canyon Trail
Trail Length: 2.4 Miles Roundtrip | Difficulty Level: Moderate | Elevation Gain: 370 Feet | Trailhead: Off Boynton Canyon Road
Reasons To Hike Fay Canyon Trail:
- Scenic Views: The trail provides breathtaking views of the red rock formations, canyons, and lush greenery.
- Wildlife Watching: The area is home to various wildlife species, including birds, lizards, and deer, which can often be seen along the trail.
- Family-Friendly: With a relatively flat trail and a moderate difficulty level, Fay Canyon Trail is perfect for families with children and beginners.
- Less Crowded: Compared to other popular trails in Sedona, Fay Canyon Trail is less crowded, providing a more peaceful and secluded hiking experience.
- Accessibility: The trailhead is easily accessible, and the trail itself is well-marked, making it an easy and convenient hike for visitors.
Recommended Gear: Hiking Boots, Sunscreen, Hat, Water Bottle, Trail Map, Sunglasses, First Aid Kit
Airport Mesa Loop Trail
Trail Length: 3.3 Miles Roundtrip | Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate | Elevation Gain: 200 Feet | Trailhead: Off Airport Road
Reasons To Hike Airport Mesa Loop Trail:
- Spectacular Views: The trail offers stunning panoramic views of Sedona’s iconic red rock formations and the surrounding landscape.
- Family-Friendly: The trail is suitable for all ages and skill levels, making it a great option for families
- Unique Vortex Site: The trail passes through a vortex site, believed to have special energy and healing properties.
- Convenient Location: The trailhead is located just minutes from downtown Sedona, making it a convenient option for visitors and locals alike.
- Short and Sweet: The trail is only 3.2 miles long, making it a great option for a shorter hike or a quick nature walk.
Recommended Gear: Hiking Boots, Sunscreen, Hat, Plenty of Water, Snacks, Camera,
Meet Cheri, a nature enthusiast who cherishes the simple joys of walking, hiking, and the comfort of glamping. With a background in e-commerce, she initially delved into the world of sports and outdoor equipment by selling products on Amazon. Today, she enjoys the freedom of blogging, sharing her expertise to help you pick the best of the best for your next outdoor adventure.
