11 Best Sedona Hiking Trails (Easy, Short + Iconic)

There’s no doubt Sedona is a magical experience. I spent a few weeks exploring Sedona recently and am completely taken with it. There are so many insane views, great restaurants, and the Sedona hiking trails are next level beautiful.

There’s something for everyone, whether you’re looking for an easy or short hike in Sedona, epic sunset views or something a bit harder this blog details it all!

My favorite Sedona hiking trails are Fay Canyon and Seven Sacred Pools, which I outline in more detail below.

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Easy Hikes In Sedona Arizona

If you’re looking for an easy hike in Sedona Arizona these top 3 trails are for you! They’re all under 3 miles and don’t have significant elevation gain.

New to hiking? Check out this hiking gear for beginners guide.

#1 Birthing Cave Sedona

• Distance: 1.9 mile
• Elevation Gain: 242 feet
• Rating: Easy
• Time To Hike: 1 hour
• Location: West Sedona
• Trailhead: Long Canyon Trailhead, Parking along the road
• Dogs: Allowed on leash

If you can’t find parking at the trailhead, you can drive down Long Canyon Road towards Mescal Trailhead where there may be more parking available. There’s a trail that connects to the Birthing Cave trail, but will add 0.5 miles each way.

This trail is a very easy Sedona hiking trail, but the climb up into the cave is a bit more strenuous. It’s also a fairly exposed trail, so I highly recommend bringing water with you. While I typically hike 2 miles without water, when it’s an exposed trail in a dry desert water is always necessary.

#2 Fay Canyon Sedona Hiking Trail

• Distance: 2.4 mile
• Elevation Gain: 298 feet
• Rating: Easy
• Time To Hike: 1-2 hours
• Location: Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness
• Trailhead: Fay Canyon Trailhead, Boynton Pass Road
• Dogs: Allowed on leash

Fay Canyon is my favorite easy hike in Sedona Arizona. The trail mostly follows the creek and is fairly well shaded, which makes it a good option for Sedona hiking trails during the day when it’s warmer out.

Most of the trail is relatively flat and easy to navigate, but if you choose to hike up to Fay Canyon Arch you’ll hit more elevation gain and some scrambles. Even if you include the Fay Canyon Arch I would still rate this trail as an easy hike in Sedona.

The end of the trail isn’t super obvious. You’ll eventually hit a water cascade which is a neat place to explore, but the trail doesn’t continue past this. We hiked around a bit thinking there was more trail, but weren’t able to find any path forward.

#3 Yavapai Vista And Slim Shady Loop Sedona Hiking Trail

• Distance: 0.6 mile
• Elevation Gain: 85 feet
• Rating: Easy
• Time To Hike: 15 minutes
• Location: Oak Creek, Coconino National Forest
• Trailhead: Yavapai Vista Parking, Red Rock Scenic Byway
• Dogs: Allowed on leash

Short Hikes In Sedona

Similar to the easy hikes above, these short hikes in Sedona are under 2 miles. However, they come with a bit more elevation gain – but that’s ok because that goes hand-in-hand with some incredible views!

#4 Bell Rock Trail

• Distance: 0.8 mile
• Elevation Gain: 203 feet
• Rating: Easy
• Time To Hike: <1 hour
• Location: Oak Creek, Coconino National Forest
• Trailhead: Courthouse Vista Parking
• Dogs: Allowed on leash

#5 Doe Mountain Sedona Hiking Trail

• Distance: 1.5 mile
• Elevation Gain: 511 feet
• Rating: Moderate
• Time To Hike: 1 hour
• Location: West Sedona
• Trailhead: Bear Mountain Parking
• Dogs: Allowed on leash

Doe Mountain is one of the best sunrise hikes in Sedona. The trail has relatively steady elevation gain to the summit by way of several switchbacks, and you should expect a bit of a scramble but overall it’s very manageable. You’ll be rewarded with 360 degree views from the top!

#6 Sugarloaf Summit And Teacup Loop

I hiked this trail with my dog and a few friends and loved it! It’s a fairly easy trail, well maintained and easy to follow.

The parking area is very small so it might be difficult to find parking if you come later in the morning. We arrived in the late afternoon and got lucky with a few spots opening up just as we pulled in. Unfortunately, there’s no overflow parking here, as the trailhead is located right off a neighborhood that doesn’t have street parking.

This hike would be great for sunrise or sunset in Sedona because it has stunning views of the horizon, and the trail is easy to follow in low light. I recommend bringing a headlamp if you’re hiking this before or after dark.

Sedona Sunset Hikes

These are the perfect Sedona sunset hikes for your trip. They’re positioned perfectly to watch the stunning sunset over the horizon.

#7 Cathedral Rock Sunset Sedona Hiking Trail

• Distance: 1.2 mile
• Elevation Gain: 741 feet
• Rating: Hard
• Time To Hike: 1 hour
• Location: Coconino National Forest
• Trailhead: Cathedral Rock Trailhead, Back O Beyond Road
• Dogs: Not allowed

Cathedral Rock is considered to be one of the 7 vortex locations in Sedona, Arizona. This is a short hike (only 1.2 miles) but the elevation gain is steep and the hike is more of a scramble for a majority of the trail. You definitely want to be wearing good shoes with traction. I also recommend brining 2 liters of water for this hike.

There are sections on the way up which require you to climb up on your hands and knees. The way back down can be a little nerve-wracking, especially if you don’t like heights or have vertigo, and there are sections where you have to crawl down on your bottom.

Parking can be challenging here. During the high season the lot is closed 7 days a week, and during the off season it’s closed from Thursday-Sunday. Instead, you can take the Sedona Shuttle. The shuttle is new, and they definitely still have some growing pains to work through, so uber may be another good alternative.

#8 Airport Mesa Viewpoint

• Distance: 1.4 mile
• Elevation Gain: 216 feet
• Rating: Easy
• Time To Hike: 45 minutes
• Location: Sedona Airport
• Trailhead: Sedona Airport Overlook Parking
• Dogs: Allowed on leash

This is another easy hike in Sedona Arizona, but it’s mostly exposed so in the heat you’ll want to bring with lots of water.

The Airport Mesa overlook has beautiful 360 degree views and is insanely gorgeous at sunset. This trail is a perfect Sedona sunset hike if you’re looking for an easier and shorter hike with an easy descent back to the parking lot after dark.

Parking at the Sedona Airport Overlook parking lot is $3. Or, you can go 0.3 miles farther and park near the airport terminal for free parking.

Best Sedona Hiking Trails

Of course, there’s more in Sedona than just easy and short trails. These are the best Sedona hiking trails if you’re looking for a bit more distance or challenge from elevation gain. These are also some of the most iconic Sedona hiking trails.

#9 Boynton Canyon And Subway Cave Sedona

• Distance: 6.3 mile
• Elevation Gain: 1,155 feet
• Rating: Hard
• Time To Hike: 3 hours
• Location: Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness Sedona
• Trailhead: Forest Service Road 152B (34°54’27.4″N 111°50’55.9″W)
• Dogs: Allowed on leash

Boynton Canyon trail is a very popular Sedona hiking trail. About 2.4 miles into the hike is the turnoff for the Subway Cave – which is the popular attraction along this hike. It can be easy to miss if you aren’t looking for it.

Because of the canyon, the trail has sections that are shaded so it’s an ideal hike for the middle of the day when other trails are fully exposed to the sun. Be prepared for crowds, though.

The cave is really the star of the show on this trail. The first section of the hike runs along resorts and isn’t very peaceful or interesting. I recommend going early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.

#10 Devils Bridge Sedona Hiking Trail

• Distance: 3.9 mile
• Elevation Gain: 528 feet
• Rating: Moderate
• Time To Hike: 1.5 hours
• Location: West Sedona
• Trailhead: Mescal Car Park
• Dogs: Allowed on leash

By this point, just about every person on the planet has seen pictures of this iconic hike on Instagram. It’s one of the most popular Sedona hiking trails (with good reason) and it can get quite crowded.

During peak hours in the middle of the day the parking lot fills as it has very few parking spaces. You should also expect to wait 30 minutes to an hour for a turn to take photos at the bridge. If you can, I recommend coming first thing in the morning (before 8:30am) or after 3pm in the afternoon.

The first 1.5 miles of the trail has a moderate incline, after that the elevation increases pretty significantly and has some areas where scrambling is required.

#11 Seven Sacred Pools Via Soldier Pass

• Distance: 5.6 mile
• Elevation Gain: 1,053 feet
• Rating: Moderate
• Time To Hike: 3 hours
• Location: West Sedona
• Trailhead: Soldier Pass Trailhead, Canyon Shadows Drive
• Dogs: Allowed on leash

Getting to this trail can be a bit hectic. The trailhead is *supposed* to be open from Monday through Wednesday during the off season, but even though we arrived on a Monday during the off season the trailhead parking was gated and locked. Unfortunately, the trailhead is located in the middle of a neighborhood so no street parking is available.

Instead, we backtracked and parked near the Sedona Dog Park on Soldier Pass Rd where we met Debbie. Wow, what can I say about “Hiker Help Debbie”. She’s an … experience. She drives a red minivan and rips through the neighborhood streets yelling out her window at potential ride fares she can shuttle from the far away public parking to the trailhead.

Once you actually make it to the trailhead (alive but slightly nauseated), the hike is fantastic. The first stop you come to are the Seven Sacred Pools. These are probably fantastic after a large rainfall, but when I hiked this trail in early April the pools were fairly empty. If you come later in the summer they may be dried up completely.

The real star of this hike is Soldier Pass Cave. Around 1.2 miles into the hike there’s a side trail up to a cave in the mountainside. You have to look for it or you’ll miss it. Or, if you follow the AllTrails map the app on your phone will prompt you for the turnoff.

It’s 0.3 miles uphill, with a bit of a scramble on a social trail that isn’t really well marked. You can see the cave the entire way up, though, so even if you’re off trail slightly you can still make it to the cave without much effort.

It’s a bit of a climb, but easy enough to get up into the cave. From there you can sit on the ledge and look out over Sedona. This is also a great spot to have a picnic lunch.

As you continue the loop trail you’ll pick up Brins Mesa Trail, which is mostly exposed and has great views the entire way.

As an alternative to starting at the Soldier Pass Trailhead, you could also complete this loop from the Brins Mesa Trailhead instead. If I were to hike this trail again, I’d first try and find parking at Brins Mesa before risking my life in Debbie’s race car.

One Day In Sedona

If you only have one day in Sedona I recommend getting an early start and hiking Devils Bridge or Boynton Canyon for sunrise.

Next, add one other hike, like Cathedral Rock or Seven Sacred Pools Via Soldier Pass before the heat of the day becomes unbearable.

In the afternoon, I recommend a picnic lunch at one of the more shaded hikes in Sedona, like Fay Canyon or Boynton Canyon.

For dinner, I highly recommend Fresh & Natural Thai Kitchen. This is some of the best Thai food I’ve ever had. We ordered take out, but you can also dine-in or on their patio.

And for sunset, hike up to Cathedral Rock for an incredible Sedona sunset view.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Sedona?

Sedona gets really hot during the summer. The best times to visit are spring and fall when the weather is best – but this also means it’s the busiest season and the crowds are overwhelming.

If you’re ok with colder temperatures, and the potential for a dusting of snow the winter in Sedona is a lovely time to come. And you won’t have to struggle with parking or crowded trails!

Where To Stay In Sedona

Sedona is a beautiful place with a variety of accommodations to suit different budgets. Whether you’re looking for an affordable stay or a luxurious retreat, here are some great options for your visit:

Budget-Friendly Options

Sedona Village Lodge

• Location: Oak Creek Village
• Highlights: Simple, comfortable rooms, close to Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte hiking trails.
• Price: Around $100 – $150 per night

Check prices and availability here.

Aiden By Best Western (formerly Andante)

• Location: West Sedona
• Highlights: Clean, basic amenities, complimentary breakfast, pet-friendly, and close to hiking trails.
• Price: Around $120 – $180 per night

Check prices and availability here.

Mid-Range Options

Arabella Hotel Sedona

• Location: South of Uptown Sedona
• Highlights: Beautiful outdoor spaces, pools, complimentary breakfast, and access to hiking trails right from the hotel.
• Price: $200 – $300 per night

Check prices and availability here.

The Wilde Resort and Spa

• Location: West Sedona
• Highlights: A boutique experience with modern amenities, spa services, and a lovely outdoor pool area.
• Price: Around $250 – $350 per night

Check prices and availability here.

Sedona Real Inn & Suites

• Location: West Sedona
• Highlights: Family-friendly, large rooms, dog-friendly with a special dog park on-site, and offers complimentary breakfast.
• Price: $200 – $300 per night

Check prices and availability here.

Luxury Options

Enchantment Resort

• Location: Boynton Canyon
• Highlights: Stunning red rock views, access to exclusive hiking trails, world-class spa, multiple dining options, and luxurious casitas.
• Price: Around $700 – $1,000+ per night

Check prices and availability here.

Amara Resort and Spa

• Location: Uptown Sedona
• Highlights: Stylish, modern accommodations, a spa, infinity pool, and an excellent restaurant with stunning views.
• Price: $400 – $800 per night

Check prices and availability here.

Red Rock Pass

The Red Rock Pass is a recreation permit required to park at certain trailheads and day-use sites in the Coconino National Forest surrounding Sedona.

Some of the locations requiring a pass include:

• Cathedral Rock
• Bell Rock
• Doe Mountain Trailhead
• Boynton Canyon
• Yavapai Vista

However, not every area in Sedona requires a pass. For example, parking in Uptown Sedona, some residential areas, or at commercial businesses won’t require one.

How Much Does Red Rock Pass Cost?

• Daily Pass: $5
• Weekly Pass: $15
• Annual Pass: $20

You can purchase the Red Rock Pass at several locations, including:

• Most trailhead parking areas (via self-serve machines).
• Local visitor centers, like the Sedona Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center.
• Online at the Coconino National Forest website.
• Many gas stations and stores in Sedona also sell them.

If you already have a National Parks Pass, also known as the America the Beautiful Pass, it will cover your parking fees for the Red Rock Pass sites as well. This is especially helpful if you’re traveling around and visiting multiple National Parks.