10 Best Hiking Trails in Sedona for All Skill Levels (with Maps & Tips)

Picture this: towering red rock cliffs, sun-drenched trails, and panoramic views to stop you in your tracks. Welcome to Sedona, one of the most unforgettable hiking destinations in the US.

Hiking in this part of Arizona is great because you don’t need to be super experienced to tackle the best trails. Sedona's hiking routes are a varied treasure trove, whether you’re seeking a short, scenic stroll or a challenging uphill scramble.

In this guide, I'll share 10 of the top hiking trails around Sedona–complete with trail maps, difficulty levels, pro tips, and what to expect on the ground–so you can head straight to the adventuring. 

Why Sedona Is a Hiker's Paradise

Jaw-Dropping Scenery Everywhere You Look

Sedona's red rock scenery is simply breathtaking. We're talking towering cliffs, smooth sandstone arches, cactus-covered trails, and wide-open views you'll remember long after your boots are off. I first visited a few years ago and still remember my first hike (Doe Mountain Trail, in case you’re wondering)--it was spectacular!

The geology here is wild, with layers of ancient rocks shaped by wind and water–over millions of years–into the cliffs, domes, and slot canyons you see today. 

A Trail System That Works for Everyone

In Sedona, it’s easy to find a hike to suit your mood and ability. The trail system is well-maintained and clearly marked, and many routes are just a short drive from town.

Almost Always Great Weather for a Hike

Sedona gets over 300 days of sunshine a year, which makes it a solid hiking destination year-round. Winters are crisp but rarely freezing, spring brings wildflowers and mild weather, and fall is just about perfect — warm days, cool nights, and less of that troublesome dust. Summer is doable, as long as you plan your hike for the early morning.

Find out more about the best time to visit Sedona. 

What to Know Before You Hike in Sedona

Parking Can Be a Pain — Plan Ahead

Most popular trailheads have tiny parking lots that fill up early—sometimes by 7 am on weekends. Also, Cathedral Rock and Soldier Pass now require a reservation or shuttle ride during peak season. 

If you're driving, you'll need a Red Rock Pass ($5/day or $15/week) to park at most trailheads. You can grab one at visitor centers, vending machines at trailheads, or buy one online. 

The Sedona Shuttle is free and runs to several major trailheads. It’s worth considering if you’re staying nearby and don’t want the stress of parking.

Timing Your Hike Right Can Make or Break It

For the best experience, aim for:

• Spring (March-May): Wildflowers, mild weather, and clear skies.
• Fall (September–November): Fewer bugs, cooler air, and golden light for photos.
• Early morning starts: Less sun, more shade, fewer people. Skip midday in summer and bring layers, as canyon temps can swing 30+ degrees between dawn and noon.

Be a Good Trail Guest

Sedona trails get a ton of foot traffic, so it's important to consider your impact. Here are a few quick tips:

• Stay on the trail: Even if a shortcut looks tempting
• Don't carve or stack rocks: Leave those cairns alone
• Let uphill hikers pass first
• Remove rubbish when you leave: Even things like orange peels and tissues.

Don't Let the Desert Fool You — It's Still Wild Out There

Being prepared and aware of potential risks when hiking in the desert is crucial. Here are some safety measures to keep in mind:

• Bring more water than you think you'll need: At least 1 liter per hour in summer.
• Download your trail map: Use AllTrails or Gaia GPS and download ahead of time, as cell service is spotty.
• Watch for loose rocks: Especially going downhill, as ankle twisters are common.
• Keep an eye out for critters: There might be rattlesnakes or javelinas around, but don't panic—they usually avoid people.
• Sunburn happens fast: Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are non-negotiables.

10 Best Hiking Trails in Sedona

Here are 10 of the top routes to help you explore the world-class landscapes of Sedona. 

1. Devil's Bridge Trail

• Skill Level: Moderate
• Distance: ~4.2 miles round-trip (from Dry Creek Vista Trailhead)

Why go:

Devil's Bridge is Sedona's most famous natural arch and definitely lives up to the hype. The bridge is wide enough to walk across (although it might not feel that way when you’re on it!) and the view drops off dramatically on either side, making for killer photos.

Pro tips:

• Arrive before 7:30 am if you want easy parking and minimal crowds.
• The first part of the trail is an old Jeep road, making it dusty and flat–and to be honest, a little boring. But it gets better fast.
• The final climb is rocky and steep. It’s not dangerous, but wear suitable footwear and take your time.
• Can't park at Dry Creek? Try the Mescal Trailhead and link in—it's longer, but quieter and more scenic.
• At busy times ( between 8.30 am and 2 pm, and on weekends) expect to wait in line for a photo at the bridge.

2. Cathedral Rock Trail

• Skill Level: Moderate to Difficult
• Distance: ~1.2 miles round-trip

Why go:

This is one of Sedona's shortest hikes, but don't let the distance fool you — it feels practically vertical in places! Expect two-handed scrambling, but you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views between the Cathedral's famous spires. Plus, it's one of Sedona’s major energy vortex spots.

Pro tips:

• It's a pretty intense climb, so wear grippy shoes.
• The trail isn't always clear. To stay on course, look for white paint dots on the rock.
• There are no bathrooms or water at the trailhead.
• Arrive at least 90 minutes early for sunset–the light is magical, but everyone knows it, so the trail gets jammed.
• Avoid this one if you don't like heights—there are a few narrow ledges up top.

3. Bell Rock Pathway

• Skill Level: Easy
• Distance: ~3.6 miles round-trip

Why go:

This is your go-to for a chill walk with big views. Bell Rock is a classic Sedona landmark, and the trail around it is wide, flat, and easy to follow. It's a great spot to stretch your legs, soak up some sun, and enjoy the red rocks without too much effort.

Pro tips:

• Start from the Courthouse Vista lot for the best access.
• As an optional add-on, you can climb a little way up Bell Rock—no ropes are needed, just follow the natural ledges.
• This is an excellent choice for sunrise or golden hour, when the light hitting the red rocks is incredible.
• There’s no shade at all, so bring a hat and plenty of water.
• This wide and open trail is popular with casual hikers and families, so although it gets busy, it rarely feels overcrowded.

4. West Fork Trail

• Skill Level: Easy to Moderate
• Distance: ~6.9 miles round-trip

Why go:

Do you prefer shady forests and a cool creek over the open desert? Then West Fork will be ideal. It winds through a narrow canyon alongside Oak Creek, with cottonwoods, canyon walls, and more peace and quiet than most Sedona hikes. 

Pro tips:

• Wear trail shoes or waterproof sandals–no joke, you'll cross the creek 13 times!
• Red Rock Passes aren’t accepted here, but there’s a $12 entrance fee (cash or card).
• Parking fills up fast, especially on fall weekends, so aim to arrive by 8 am.
• A great option for hot days, as the canyon is cooler and more shaded than most trails.
• Turn around whenever you like. The trail is long, but even the first mile is beautiful.

5. Soldier Pass Trail

• Skill Level: Moderate
• Distance: ~4.5 miles round-trip

Why go:

This trail gives you a little bit of everything: sinkholes, red rock cliffs, pools of water, and even a hidden cave if you know where to look. It’s a less crowded option compared to Sedona's busiest trails, offering a peaceful and diverse hiking experience.

Pro tips:

• The parking lot only holds 14 cars and opens at 8 am sharp, so arrive early.
• Want to avoid the parking headache? Park at Jordan Trailhead and hike in—this adds ~1.2 miles each way.
• At about 0.6 miles in, keep your eyes open for the short side trail to the Seven Sacred Pools–there is a signpost, but it’s easy to miss.
• To find the hidden cave, take the fork toward Brins Mesa and look for the side path at around mile 2 — it’s steep but worth it.
• Bring a small flashlight or phone light if you plan to explore inside the cave.

6. Fay Canyon Trail

• Skill Level: Easy
• Distance: ~2.2 miles round-trip

Why go:

If you want something low-effort but still scenic, Fay Canyon is a peaceful gem. The trail leads into a shady red rock canyon surrounded by cliffs that are dotted with desert greenery. It's rarely crowded and has a bonus "secret spot" at the end.

Pro tips:

• Most people stop at the official end, but a short rock scramble further leads to a hidden arch—it’s not marked, but is worth finding.
• The trail is flat with a pretty soft surface, so it’s ideal if you’re a casual or beginner-level walker.
• It’s an excellent choice for a hot day, as the canyon walls offer decent shade by mid-morning.
• It's not the best choice after heavy rain, as the trail can get muddy and there will be lots of bugs.
• There are no bathrooms or water available at the trailhead, so come prepared.

7. Doe Mountain Trail

• Skill Level: Moderate
• Distance: ~1.5 miles round-trip

Why go:

This is a quick hike with a big payoff. The trail zigzags up the side of a flat-topped mesa, delivering you to a summit with gorgeous, 360-degree vistas of red rock country. It's a solid workout in under an hour and offers killer sunrise and sunset views.

Pro tips:

• The switchbacks aren't technical, but they do go on for a while—bring plenty of water.
• Once you reach the top, explore the mesa — there's no defined path, so take your time.
• There’s not much shade, so arriving early or late in the day is your best bet.
• Watch your footing on the way down, as loose rock can make the descent tricky.
• The summit is breezy–wonderful in summer, but make sure you bring layers in the cooler months.

8. Boynton Canyon Trail

• Skill Level: Moderate
• Distance: ~6.1 miles round-trip

Why go:

This one combines red rock walls, forested stretches, and mystical vibes. Boynton Canyon is one of Sedona's vortex spots, and the views get better the further you hike. It's long enough to feel like a true escape without being too intense.

Pro tips:

• Start early, as the first part of the trail runs near a resort and gets some morning sun.
• About half a mile in, look for a short detour to the vortex viewpoint — there's often a guy playing flute up there, which adds to the ambience.
• Expect some sun at the start and cooler, shaded conditions deeper into the canyon.
• This trail is great for spotting wildlife–especially birds and the occasional deer.
• There is no dramatic summit, but the trail's end is a quiet, scenic spot to rest up before returning.

9. Airport Loop Trail

• Skill Level: Moderate
• Distance: ~3.3 miles loop

Why go:

This loop wraps around Airport Mesa and offers panoramic views of Sedona's red rock formations and the town itself. It's convenient to get to and very scenic—especially at golden hour.

Pro tips:

• The trail is rocky and uneven — wear sturdy shoes and watch your ankles.
• You'll walk along the edge of cliffs in some spots - this isn’t dangerous, but can be unnerving if you’re not great with heights.
• Parking is free along Airport Road, or you can pay a small fee at the Airport Scenic Overlook lot.
• This is a lovely spot for sunset, but bring a flashlight if you'll be finishing the trail after dark.
• The loop can be confusing in spots, so download a GPS map before heading out.

10. Birthing Cave Trail

• Skill Level: Easy to Moderate
• Distance: ~2 miles round-trip

Why go:

One of Sedona's best-kept secrets is a cave shaped like a womb. The trail is short and easy enough until the final push, but the view through the cave's "window" is pretty special, making it all worthwhile.

Pro tips:

• There's no sign for the trailhead. Start from the Long Canyon Trail and look for a well-worn side path after about 0.6 miles.
• Bring a map or GPS — it's easy to miss the turnoff if you're not paying attention.
• Make sure your shoes have a good grip, as getting to the cave requires a scramble up a short, steep slope.
• The best photos come from inside the cave, but watch your footing near the edge.
• The route to the cave has no shade, so go early or late and bring plenty of water.

Bonus Tips for Making the Most of Your Sedona Hiking Experience

Best Trail Apps to Download Before You Go

• AllTrails: This is the most popular app in town. Use it to check trail conditions, read reviews, and download offline maps (super important, as cell service is spotty). The free version is good, but the Pro version lets you stay on course with GPS.
• Gaia GPS: More detailed topo maps are helpful for longer or less popular hikes. This one’s also good for exploring lesser-known areas or going off the beaten path.
• Sedona Shuttle App: This app shows real-time shuttle routes, stops, and times. The shuttle service is the best way to avoid parking stress at busy trailheads like Cathedral Rock and Soldier Pass.

Recommended Gear for Desert Hiking

Desert hiking is simple, but you need to be prepared. Bring the following:

• Trail runners or hiking boots with good grip — most trails have loose rock and slickrock, which is fine when dry, but tricky when wet.
• Hydration pack or 2–3 water bottles — allow 1 liter per hour in warmer months.
• Lightweight sun shirt or long sleeves – to keep you cool and protect you from UV.
• Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen — because the Arizona sun will find you.
• Snacks — bring something salty and something sweet to keep yourself fueled.
• Flashlight or headlamp — just in case your "quick sunset hike" runs long.
• Mini first aid kit — Band-Aids, blister pads, and Advil go a long way.

Optional but helpful: hiking poles (for downhill), a sit pad (for vortex meditating), and a bandana or cooling towel (because that sun is incredibly hot).

Tuning into Sedona's Vortex Energy (If You're Into That)

Sedona is known for its vortex sites, where energy is said to collect, boosting meditation, clarity, and healing. They're worth visiting whether you're spiritually curious or simply want to chill in a pretty place.

Most accessible vortex spots:

• Bell Rock – Balanced energy, easy to get to
• Cathedral Rock Saddle – Strong feminine energy, beautiful views
• Boynton Canyon Vortex – "Balanced energy", sometimes comes with live flute music
• Airport Mesa – Intense, buzzing energy and a wide-open overlook

Even if you're skeptical, these are all beautiful spots to sit quietly while soaking up your surroundings.

Where to Eat After You Hike (Because You'll Be Hungry)

After a dusty, calorie-burning trail, here are a few local favorites to refuel:

• Sedona Memories Bakery & Café – Huge sandwiches and house-made bread. Closes early, but great for picnic-style lunches.
• The Hudson – Upscale comfort food with red rock views from the patio. Go for lunch or a sunset dinner.
• Berry Divine Acai Bowls – Fast, natural, and refreshing — perfect after a warm morning hike.
• Pump House Station – Shaded garden seating, great coffee, and a solid brunch menu.
• Tamaliza – Casual, family-owned spot serving delicious handmade tamales and fresh Mexican eats.

Pro tip: Many restaurants in Sedona get busy during peak hours. If you're hiking early, beat the lunch rush by arriving before 11:30 am.

Final Thoughts

Sedona's trails offer some of the most breathtaking landscapes around. Whether you’ve climbed to a red rock overlook, wandered a quiet canyon, or stood still in the hum of a vortex, your journey will stay with you long after the dust settles on your boots.

So, if you’ve decided to take the plunge and explore these rewarding trails, let’s get going! Lace up those boots, pack the water bottle, and step into the magic. 

Do you have a favorite Sedona trail we haven’t mentioned that deserves some love? Share it in the comments–your favorite adventure might just inspire someone else.