Sedona is a dream destination for people who love the outdoors and adventure. The amazing red rock landscapes and endless trails make it one of the best places in the West for hiking and exploring nature.
I’ve spent a lot of time in Sedona. It’s my favorite place to hike, I hiked many of the trails. I can honestly say that hiking in Sedona is always an awesome experience! No matter which trail you pick, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views, cool rock formations, and a little bit of Sedona’s special magic.
If you want to know the very best hikes, I’ve put together a list of my absolute favorites—the ones I would happily hike over and over again!
Tips for Hiking in Sedona
Start Early – Whether you want to avoid big crowds or escape the heat, it’s best to start your hike early in the day. Morning hikes are cooler and quieter, making the experience even better.
Protect Yourself from the Sun – Sedona’s sun can be really strong, and there’s not much shade on the trails. Be sure to bring sunblock and wear a hat to protect your skin while you hike.
Bring Plenty of Water – The desert can make you dehydrated quickly, so it’s important to stay hydrated. Bring a backpack that can hold 2-3 liters of water to make sure you have enough for the whole hike.
Use the Hiker Shuttle – Sedona offers a free shuttle service that can take you to different trailheads around town. This not only reduces traffic but also helps protect the environment. Plus, it’s super convenient!
1. Cathedral Rock Trail
Cathedral Rock Trail is one of the most famous hikes in Sedona, and for good reason! This trail is a bit challenging but totally worth it for the amazing views at the top. You’ll get to see Sedona’s stunning red rock formations up close, and many hikers visit for the unique spiritual energy that people say you can feel at Cathedral Rock.
The trail itself is a 1.2-mile round trip, but don’t let the short distance fool you—there are some steep sections that require climbing over rocks. Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding area. This is also a great spot to watch the sunset!
Trail Details:
- Distance: 1.2 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging (there’s rock scrambling!)
- Best for: Incredible views, sunset hikes, and experiencing Sedona’s famous vortex energy
2. Devil’s Bridge Trail
Devil’s Bridge Trail is one of the most popular hikes in Sedona, known for its stunning natural sandstone arch. This trail is a fantastic adventure for families and outdoor enthusiasts who love taking pictures!
The trail is 4.2 miles round trip and is considered moderately difficult. The first part is a nice hike through the beautiful red rocks, but the last section gets a bit tricky as you need to scramble a little to reach the top of the bridge. When you finally get there, the view is absolutely breathtaking! You’ll be standing on a large arch with amazing views of the surrounding red rock landscape, which makes it a perfect spot for photos.
Trail Details:
- Distance: 4.2 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Best for: Family-friendly hiking, photography, and exploring Sedona’s incredible scenery
3. Bell Rock Pathway
Bell Rock Pathway is an excellent choice for beginners and families looking for an easy hike in Sedona. This trail is mostly flat and offers stunning views of the iconic Bell Rock formation and Courthouse Butte. It’s a great spot to take in the beauty of Sedona’s famous red rocks without a lot of climbing!
The trail is 3.6 miles round trip, making it a perfect length for a leisurely walk. Along the way, you can enjoy the surrounding scenery, take photos, and even bring your dog along, as this trail is pet-friendly. The Bell Rock Pathway is also a fantastic place to learn about the area’s geology and the unique features of Sedona.
Trail Details:
- Distance: 3.6 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy
- Best for: Beginners, families, dog-friendly hiking, and enjoying scenic views of the red rock landscape
4. Boynton Canyon Trail
Boynton Canyon Trail is a fantastic hike that offers a longer and more adventurous experience in Sedona. This trail takes you through a beautiful red rock canyon, showcasing the stunning scenery that Sedona is famous for. It’s a great choice for families and those looking to explore a variety of landscapes!
The trail is 6.1 miles round trip and is considered moderately difficult. As you hike, you’ll walk through lovely pine forests and see unique rock formations. The trail does get a bit steeper near the end, which adds a little challenge, but the beautiful views make it all worthwhile. Many hikers also enjoy the spiritual energy that this trail is known for, as it’s one of the vortex sites in Sedona.
Trail Details:
- Distance: 6.1 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Best for: Vortex hikes, enjoying scenic views, and experiencing the natural beauty of Sedona
5. Oak Creek Canyon Trail
Oak Creek Canyon Trail is a wonderful option for those looking for a relaxing and scenic hike in Sedona. This trail follows the beautiful Oak Creek, providing a refreshing escape from the heat of the desert. It’s perfect for families and anyone who wants to enjoy nature at a leisurely pace!
The trail is 3.5 miles round trip and is considered easy, making it suitable for hikers of all ages and skill levels. As you walk along the creek, you’ll be surrounded by tall trees that offer shade and cooler temperatures, especially during the summer months. The peaceful sound of the water flowing adds to the calming atmosphere, making it a great place to unwind.
Trail Details:
- Distance: 3.5 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy
- Best for: Family-friendly hikes, enjoying scenic views, and peaceful walks along the water
6. Soldier Pass Trail
Soldier Pass Trail is a hidden gem in Sedona that offers a fantastic hiking experience through stunning landscapes. This trail takes you on an adventure to see unique geological formations, including the famous Seven Sacred Pools and the intriguing Devil’s Kitchen sinkhole. It’s a great choice for hikers looking to explore less crowded areas!
The trail is 4.5 miles round trip and is considered moderately difficult. Along the way, you’ll encounter some steep sections, but the beautiful scenery makes it well worth the effort. You’ll be surrounded by breathtaking red rock formations, and the trail provides excellent opportunities for photography and enjoying the natural beauty of Sedona.
Trail Details:
- Distance: 4.5 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Best for: Off-the-beaten-path hiking, exploring unique geological features, and discovering hidden gems in Sedona
7. Bear Mountain Trail
Bear Mountain Trail is one of the most challenging hikes in Sedona, perfect for experienced hikers seeking an adventure! This trail takes you on a journey through the stunning red rock landscape, offering incredible panoramic views that make the effort worthwhile.
The trail is 5 5-mile round trip and is considered difficult due to significant elevation gain. As you climb higher, you’ll experience steep sections that require determination and stamina. However, when you reach the top, you’ll be greeted by breathtaking views of Sedona’s red rock country and surrounding landscapes, making it an unforgettable experience.
Trail Details:
- Distance: 5 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Difficult
- Best for: Experienced hikers, those looking for a challenge, and anyone wanting to enjoy breathtaking vistas
8. Fay Canyon Trail
Fay Canyon Trail is a delightful hike that offers a relaxed and scenic experience for families and hikers of all skill levels. This trail leads you through a peaceful canyon surrounded by stunning red rock formations, making it a perfect spot to enjoy the beauty of Sedona!
The trail is a 2.3-mile round trip and is considered easy, making it great for those who want a gentle hike without too much elevation gain. As you walk along the path, you’ll be treated to incredible views of the canyon walls and unique rock features. This trail is also dog-friendly, so you can bring your furry friends along for the adventure!
Trail Details:
- Distance: 2.3 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy
- Best for: Family-friendly hikes, scenic canyon views, and hiking with dogs
9. Birthing Cave Trail
Birthing Cave Trail is a unique and lesser-known hiking experience in Sedona that leads you to a fascinating cave formation. This trail is perfect for those looking for something a bit different and off the beaten path!
The trail is a short 2-mile round trip and is considered moderately challenging. As you hike, you’ll enjoy the beautiful scenery and unique rock formations that Sedona is known for. The cave itself is a quiet and peaceful spot, making it an excellent place for reflection or taking some great photos. The hike provides a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature and explore a hidden gem in the area.
Trail Details:
- Distance: 2 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Best for: Exploring hidden gems in Sedona, photography, and spiritual reflection
10. Secret Slickrock Trail
Secret Slickrock Trail is a fantastic choice for hikers looking for a shorter, scenic adventure with breathtaking views! This trail is known for its stunning perspective of the iconic Cathedral Rock, making it a popular spot for photographers and nature lovers alike.
The trail is only 0.6 miles round trip and is considered easy, making it suitable for hikers of all ages. As you walk along the trail, you’ll find yourself surrounded by smooth, slick rock formations that add a unique touch to your hike. The views from this trail are especially beautiful at sunset, providing a perfect backdrop for photos and unforgettable memories.
Trail Details:
- Distance: 0.6 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy
- Best for: Short scenic hikes, sunset photography, and enjoying unobstructed views of Cathedral Rock
FAQ:
What is the most famous hike in Sedona?
The most famous hike in Sedona is the Cathedral Rock Trail. Known for its stunning red rock formations and vortex energy, Cathedral Rock is a must-visit for both seasoned hikers and those seeking spiritual experiences in nature. Its short but steep climb leads to breathtaking panoramic views of Sedona’s red rocks.
What is the most popular hike in Red Rock Canyon?
The Devil’s Bridge Trail is one of the most popular hikes in Red Rock Canyon. This moderately challenging trail takes you to a natural sandstone arch, providing spectacular views of Sedona’s red rock landscape. The bridge is also a favorite spot for photography, making it a top attraction in the area.
What is the most scenic place in Sedona?
Sedona is full of scenic places, but the views from Secret Slickrock Trail and Cathedral Rock are considered some of the most breathtaking. Secret Slickrock provides a less crowded but equally stunning view of Cathedral Rock, while the summit of Cathedral Rock itself offers unparalleled views of the surrounding red rock formations, especially at sunset.
