Are you ready to lace up your hiking boots and hit the trails in Sedona, Arizona? With its stunning red rock formations, diverse landscapes, and breathtaking views, Sedona is a hiker's paradise.
Whether you're a beginner looking for a leisurely stroll or an experienced hiker seeking a challenging trek, Sedona has something for everyone. Let's dive into the best hiking trails that this picturesque destination has to offer.
But before I get started, I must give a shoutout to my wife, who loves reading the blogs I write. We went to Sedona in November, and it was fantastic. One of the best things about the trip was starting our hiking adventures with the most difficult trail we did; the black diamond trail known as Cathedral Rock. Wow!
My personal favorite, however, was the Devil's Bridge Trail. (The featured image of this blog is a picture I took of Devil's Bridge.) If you can only do one trail in Sedona, do that one.
Anyway, let's get into this!
1. Cathedral Rock Trail
Known for its iconic red rock formations and panoramic views, Cathedral Rock Trail is a must-do for any hiker visiting Sedona. This moderate to strenuous trail offers a rewarding climb to the saddle, where you can soak in the beauty of the surrounding landscape. Be prepared for steep inclines and rocky terrain, but the views at the top are well worth the effort.
Make sure to bring plenty of water and wear sturdy hiking shoes for this challenging but unforgettable hike. The trail is approximately 1.5 miles round trip, with an elevation gain of 600 feet.
2. Devil's Bridge Trail
For a unique hiking experience, head to Devil's Bridge Trail, one of the most popular hikes in Sedona. This moderate trail leads to a natural sandstone arch known as Devil's Bridge, offering hikers the opportunity to walk across the bridge and take in the stunning views below. The trail is approximately 4.2 miles round trip, with a moderate elevation gain.
Don't forget your camera to capture the breathtaking scenery, and be prepared for some steep sections along the way. Devil's Bridge Trail is a favorite among visitors for its natural beauty and photo-worthy moments.
3. West Fork Trail
Looking for a more leisurely hike surrounded by lush greenery and towering canyon walls? West Fork Trail is the perfect choice for a peaceful and scenic trek in Sedona. This easy to moderate trail follows the meandering waters of Oak Creek, offering hikers a tranquil escape into nature.
With multiple creek crossings and shaded areas, West Fork Trail is ideal for hot summer days. The trail is approximately 6.9 miles round trip, making it a great option for a half-day adventure in the great outdoors.
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4. Bell Rock Pathway
For a family-friendly hike with stunning views of Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte, check out Bell Rock Pathway. This easy to moderate trail is perfect for all skill levels and offers a scenic stroll through the red rock landscape of Sedona.
Whether you're looking for a quick hike or a longer exploration, Bell Rock Pathway has options for everyone. The trail is approximately 3.6 miles round trip, with minimal elevation gain, making it a great choice for a leisurely hike with the whole family.
5. Soldier Pass Trail
Explore the unique rock formations and natural beauty of Soldier Pass Trail, a moderate hike that takes you past the famous Seven Sacred Pools and the Devil's Kitchen sinkhole. This 4.1-mile round trip trail offers a mix of red rock scenery, lush vegetation, and intriguing geological features.
Keep an eye out for wildlife along the trail, and be sure to respect the natural environment as you hike through this stunning area. Soldier Pass Trail is a great option for hikers looking to experience the diverse landscapes of Sedona.
6. Fay Canyon Trail
For a shorter but scenic hike with stunning views of red rock cliffs and towering pinnacles, Fay Canyon Trail is a great choice. This easy 2.4-mile round trip trail offers hikers a peaceful walk through a picturesque canyon, with opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy the tranquility of nature.
Bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as there is limited shade along the trail. Fay Canyon Trail is a hidden gem in Sedona, perfect for a relaxing hike with beautiful views.
7. Airport Mesa Loop Trail
Looking for a hike with panoramic views of Sedona and the surrounding red rock formations? Airport Mesa Loop Trail is the perfect choice for sweeping vistas and stunning sunsets. This moderate 3.2-mile loop trail offers hikers a bird's eye view of Sedona from the top of Airport Mesa.
Be sure to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking scenery, and plan your hike around sunrise or sunset for the best light. Airport Mesa Loop Trail is a popular spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts looking to experience the beauty of Sedona from above.
8. Doe Mountain Trail
For a moderate hike with 360-degree views of Sedona and the surrounding red rock landscape, head to Doe Mountain Trail. This 1.4-mile round trip trail offers hikers a relatively easy climb to the top of the mesa, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the area.
Be prepared for some steep sections and rocky terrain along the way, but the views from the top are well worth the effort. Doe Mountain Trail is a great option for hikers looking for a shorter but rewarding hike in Sedona.
9. Brins Mesa Trail
Experience the beauty of Sedona's high desert landscape on Brins Mesa Trail, a moderate hike with stunning views of the surrounding red rock formations. This 6.1-mile round trip trail takes hikers through open meadows, rocky terrain, and panoramic vistas of the area.
Keep an eye out for wildflowers in the spring and fall, and be prepared for some elevation gain along the way. Brins Mesa Trail is a great option for hikers looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Sedona.
10. Mescal Mountain Trail
For a challenging hike with rugged terrain and panoramic views of Sedona, check out Mescal Mountain Trail. This 2.4-mile loop trail offers hikers a moderate to strenuous trek through rocky terrain and steep inclines, with rewarding views of the red rock landscape.
Be prepared for some scrambling and rocky sections along the trail, and make sure to wear sturdy hiking shoes for this challenging hike. Mescal Mountain Trail is a great option for experienced hikers looking for a more adventurous trek in Sedona.
11. Secret Slickrock Trail
Looking for a hidden gem off the beaten path? Secret Slickrock Trail offers hikers a unique and less crowded hiking experience in Sedona. This 2.2-mile round trip trail takes you through slickrock formations and stunning desert scenery, with opportunities for exploration and solitude.
Be prepared for some scrambling and uneven terrain along the trail, but the secluded beauty of Secret Slickrock Trail makes it a worthwhile adventure for hikers looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in nature.
12. Wilson Mountain Trail
For a challenging hike with breathtaking views of Sedona and the surrounding red rock landscape, tackle Wilson Mountain Trail. This strenuous 10.8-mile round trip trail offers hikers a tough climb to the summit of Wilson Mountain, the highest point in Sedona.
Be prepared for a long and strenuous hike with significant elevation gain, but the panoramic views from the top are truly spectacular. Wilson Mountain Trail is a bucket-list hike for experienced hikers looking for a challenging and rewarding adventure in Sedona.
Thanks for stopping by! Before you go, check out What is Nature Therapy?
