We got you!! Sedona is defined by its plenty of impressive red rocks and the fantastic hikes to enjoy there. Hikes in Sedona offer a variety of challenges, including the option to ride through the scenery with ease. Either you are a beginner or an experienced hiker you will definitely love these best hikes in Sedona.
So here is the list of top 10 best hikes in Sedona:
1. Cathedral Rock Trail
Cathedral Rock stands out as one of the premier hikes in Sedona. Despite its brevity, this trail packs a punch with its rock-scrambling sections and awe-inspiring views, making it a delightful adventure from Hikes in Sedona from beginning to end. Feeling excited from now?
Given its popularity, solitude may be a rare find along this trail. However, the true essence of this experience lies on the top of Cathedral Rock and the breathtaking scenic views it offers.
Distance: 1.2 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 744 feet
Time: 1 to 2 hours
2. Devil’s Bridge Trail
This hike in Sedona is super popular. Lots of people go there every day to walk to Devil’s Bridge. They go to take pictures, enjoy the views, and sometimes even propose to their crush.
The hike itself is 2 miles round-trip from the starting point. It’s pretty easy, mostly flat and quick. Near the end, you’ll climb up some inclines and steps made of stone to reach the bridge.
The only tricky part is getting to where the hike starts. You need a 4-wheel drive, high-clearance vehicle to reach the Devil’s Bridge trailhead. If you don’t have one, you’ll have to start at the Mescal Trailhead or park and walk from Dry Creek Road.
Distance: 4.2 miles
Elevation Gain: 400 to 500 feet
Time: 1 to 3 hours
3. West Fork Trail
Enjoy the beauty of Oak Creek Canyon on this scenic hike in Sedona. The West Fork Trail is easy and takes you through lush plants, clear water, and amazing views of tall cliffs. It’s a peaceful walk alongside Oak Creek, different from other hikes in the area.
Most of the trail follows Oak Creek, showing how the creek shaped the canyon walls. In some spots, it looks like the Subway in Zion National Park. With lots of shade from trees and hikes in Sedona this hike is perfect for hot days in Sedona.
Distance: 6.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 535 feet
Time: 3 to 5 hours
4. Soldier Pass Trail
These hikes in Sedona are Brins Mesa and Soldier Pass Loop combine two beautiful hiking trails into one amazing adventure. Since it’s a loop, you’ll always be seeing new landscapes and views.
On Brins Mesa hike in Sedona, you’ll enjoy wide views of the red rock mountains. On Soldier Pass Trail, you can spot Devil’s Kitchen and the Seven Sacred Pools, and you can also check out Soldier Pass cave if you want.
It’s best to do the loop clockwise, especially if you start early. That way, you can hike the busy Soldier Pass Trail in the morning and save the quieter Brins Mesa Trail for later when there are fewer people on the trails and have.
Distance: 4.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,200 feet
Time: 3 to 5 hours
5. Airport Loop Trail
Airport Mesa is a flat area covered in bushes located south of Sedona. The Airport Loop Trail hike in Sedona goes around the top edge of the mesa. On this hike in Sedona, you can see famous landmarks like Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, Courthouse Butte, and more. The trail starts high up on the mesa and goes in a loop, giving you stunning views of Sedona. It’s right in the middle of all the beautiful Red Rock views.
Parking at the trailhead can be tough, but there’s extra parking at the top of the mesa for a small fee. You can then hike down to the trailhead. The trailhead itself has a great view, with a big rock you can climb for photos, hence making it the best hike in Sedona.
Distance: 3.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 400 feet
Time: 2 hours
6. FAY CANYON
From start to finish, you will walk along a flat, sandy trail through Fay Canyon in Sedona. Parts of the trail are shaded by trees and at times you get glimpses of the red rock cliffs that tower along both sides of the trail.
The trail ends at the back of the canyon…you know you are there once you reach the “End of Trail” sign.
As an optional detour, you can add on the short spur trail to the Fay Canyon Arch. We learned about this after doing this hike but you can read more about it on All Trails.
Distance: 3.2 miles
Time: 1 hour
7. Chimney Rock Trail
Chimney Rock Pass is an easy loop trail hikes in Sedona with outstanding views and is relatively uncrowded when compared to other hikes. I stumbled across this amazing hike because the road to get to Fay Canyon trail was closed. It was relatively quiet and we only saw a couple of people on the Hikes in Sedona.
I had never even heard of this trail before I got to Sedona and I am so glad we did it. It was nice to get away from the crowds while still having amazing views. It is also extremely close to the town of Sedona.
Distance: 1.7 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 374 feet
Time: 1 hour
8. Bear Mountain Trail
This mountain was really tough for a few. It felt long and hard, especially if you went for the easy one previously it might take the whole day to hike up. If you don’t have trekking poles, it can make it even harder. But despite feeling exhausted, you will still like the views and the climbing.
The trail is enjoyable all the way, though you will encounter more beautiful views of Hikes in Sedona along the trail than the final viewpoint. If you have bad knees, bring trekking poles, especially for going downhill, which is tough. If you hike in winter, there will be ice, making it even more challenging and mesmerizing. Be careful if you hike this trail in winter and consider bringing crampons.
Distance: 4.9 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 1,975 feet
Time: 3 to 5 hours
9. West Fork Trail
The West Fork trail is an excellent Hikes in Sedona for the family. Many river crossings make this hike a bit more exciting than the rest. Don’t worry, the water usually doesn’t rise too high, but I would still consider bringing some good hiking shoes. Or you can take off your shoes if you want to.
The trail offers stunning views of the canyons and semi-shaded trees. It is a perfect spot to explore in the hot Arizona heat. You don’t have to do all 7.2 miles to enjoy this hike. You can turn around at any point since there are lovely views everywhere.
As is the trend with a lot of trails Hikes in Sedona, parking can be a pain, but if you get there early, you don’t have to worry much.
Distance: 7.2 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 820 feet
Time: 3 to 4 hours
10. Wilson Canyon Trail
This trail follows a stream where you cross many times and the trail has a lot of shade. Depending on the time of year, you may encounter much more than a light trickle of water. The slight elevation gain and the shade make this trial perfect Hikes in Sedona for a leisure hike in Sedona with the family. This is probably one of the best hikes for small children on this list.
Walk past the end of the trail and hike up the red rock stairs. The views are incredible in this area. Make sure you hike on the Wilson Canyon Trail instead of the Wilson Mountain Trail. Many people make that mistake.
Distance: 2.7 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 426 feet
Time: 1 hour
Conclusion:
Sedona’s top 10 hikes offer a diverse range of experiences, from easy strolls to challenging climbs, each showcasing the region’s unique beauty. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a nature enthusiast, these trails promise an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Sedona’s red rock wonderland.
