8 of the Best Hikes in Sedona, Arizona
Sedona is one of my absolute favorite places to visit in Arizona. With stunning red rocks, a laid back vibe and abundant hiking - what’s not to love? These are the best hikes to add to your next Sedona trip itinerary.
Related Post: The Ultimate Arizona Road Trip
Fay Canyon - Sedona, AZ
Fay Canyon
2.1 mi out & back trail
Rated Moderate on AllTrails
Fay Canyon offers breathtaking views of Sedona’s unique rock formations. While rated as moderate, the trail is generally flat, with some rock scrambling. This hike is a popular choice for families and those looking to get away from the crowds at some of the more “instagrammable” trails in the area. This was hands down my favorite hike on our last trip to Sedona.
Bell Rock
0.8 mi out & back trail
Rated Moderate on AllTrails
Bell Rock is one of the ‘vortex’ locations Sedona is known for. Once you make you way up onto the rock, find a place away from the crowds to take a seat and see if you can sense the energy these rocks are known for.
Cathedral Rock
1.2 mi out & back trail
Rated Moderate on AllTrails
Cathedral Rock is one of the most popular hikes in Sedona. The short, yet challenging climb to the saddle rewards hikers with stunning views of Sedona’s famous red rock landscape. Cathedral Rock is also recognized one of Sedona’s vortex sites, making this hike popular for those seeking deeper spiritual connections.
Oak Creek Canyon, West Fork Trail
Oak Creek Canyon, West Fork Trail
6.5 mi out & back trail
Rated Moderate on AllTrails
The West Fork trail traces the creek upstream along a sandy trail with 13 stream crossings and incredible canyon walls towering above. The trail ends where the canyon walls begin to close in on you. If 6.5 mi seems daunting, this trail is still worth checking out as there is plenty to see just a short distance from the trailhead.
Devils’ Bridge
3.9 miles out & back trail
Rated Moderate on AllTrails
Devil’s Bridge is one of the most iconic Instagram spots in Sedona, making this trail incredibly popular. If you want to beat the crowds, plan to get to the trailhead EARLY. The trail meanders through desert washes leading to a rock scramble to the ultimate payoff - Devil’s Bridge - a natural sandstone arch carved into the landscape over thousands of years.
Boynton Canyon Trail
7.2 mi out & back trail
Rated Moderate on AllTrails
Boynton Canyon is another well-known vortex site in Sedona and is considered a sacred place by some Indigenous groups. The trail winds through a lush, shaded canyon offering a change of pace from the typical red rock vistas. Hikers will enjoy sitings of the unique desert plants that thrive here, such as Arizona cypress and manzanita as well as a chance to spot a mule deer. Additionally, the “Subway Cave” is located on a spur off this main trail.
Seven Sacred Pools, Soldiers Pass Trail
Soldier’s Pass Trail
3 mi out & back trail
Rated Moderate on AllTrails
This hike was one of my favorites while visiting Sedona. This one hike offers a sampler of all the best things of Sedona - if you can only do one hike on your visit, this is it. First up, you’ll pass the “Seven Sacred Pools” - natural pools that have been carved into the standstone, with stunning red rock crags in the background. As you continue on, you’ll come to “Devil’s Kitchen” - a sinkhole formed by the collapse of underground caverns. Finally, you’ll reach the Soldiers Pass cave formed by arches and a traversable ledge. This trail truly has a little bit of everything all rolling into one hike.
Airport Loop Trail
3.3 mi loop trail
Rated Moderate on AllTrail
This loop trail encircles the upper slope of Airport Mesa. Sitting at 4,827 feet, the mesa sits above much of Sedona providing hikers on this trail panoramic views of some the most famous red rock formations in the area including Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock and Courthouse butte just to name a few.
PRO TIP - hit this trail about an hour before sunset to taken in all of the golden hour beauty of the vibrant red rock landscape.
Top Sedona Hiking Tips:
Plan Ahead with these helpful tips:
- Download AllTrails - The AllTrails app is a GPS app built for hiking. You can use it to discover and learn about nearby trails including their length and difficulty. Additionally, you can find reviews from other recent hikers which may alert you to current trail conditions and other considerations. The navigation feature on the AllTrails app allows you to track your hike to help minimize your chances of getting lost, however do keep in mind that cell service can be spotty in remote areas so always plan ahead and know your route.
- Purchase a Red Rocks Pass - Many hikes in the Sedona area require a Red Rocks Pass to park at the trailhead. AllTrails does a decent job of alerting you of which trails this is the case for and most trails that require a pass have a kisok where you can purchase one upon arrival.
- Know what to bring with you and pack extra in case you are out longer than you expect. Essentials include a day pack with plenty of water, food, sunscreen and/or other sun protection items. Additionally, you’ll want a good pair of sturdy hiking shoes.
About Sedona:
Location:
Sedona, Arizona is located about 2 hours north of Phoenix, 30 minutes from Flagstaff and 90 minutes from the Grand Canyon. It is known for its stunning red rock formations, creating an awe-inspiring landscape for buttes and canyons that draw visitors from around the globe. Its mild climate and “vortexes” have contributed to Sedona’s reputation as a haven for outdoor recreation and those seeking a spiritual connection.
When to Visit:
Honestly, Sedona is pretty incredible in any season and all of these hikes are beautiful year-round. Here’s what you can expect:
Spring (March - May):
Weather: Mid-60s to low 80’s
Experience: This is a popular time, so expect more crowds. Depending on winter rains, this is a great time to potentially see wildflowers in bloom.
Summer (June - August):
Weather: Temperatures reaching the 90s. This is also monsoon season, afternoon thunderstorms are most likely.
Experience: Great for early morning or evening hikes to beat the heat and rain. Fewer crowds compared to spring and fall.
Fall (September - November):
Weather: Mid-60s to low 80’s
Experience: This is another popular time of year, so expect crowds. The tradeoff is the opportunity to see fall foliage against a backdrop of red rocks.
Winter (December-February):
Weather: Daytime temperatures in the 50s-60s with the potential for snowfall. Chilly evenings.
Experience: Fewer crowds. I LOVE a hike in 50 - 60 degree weather, this is easily my favorite time of year to visit!
Getting to Sedona, AZ
✈️ Flying:
Most visitors opt to fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport (PHX). At just over a 2-hour drive, it the closest international airport. PHX is an American Airlines hub and has with direct flights from most major airports in the US.
Flagstaff Airport (FLG) is the closest small commercial airport to Sedona, and offers direct flights from Phoenix, Denver and Dallas. This airport is located about a 40-minute, scenic drive from Sedona.
🚗 Rental Car:
Do you need a rental car when visiting Sedona? I would highly recommend it! Not only will the be your best bet from getting to Sedona from your preferred airport, the town itself is fairly spread out. Additionally, most trailheads are located in areas outside of the city proper, requiring a vehicle to easily access them. Trying to Uber to/from these locations wouldn’t be advisable.
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