Sedona, Arizona, is a hiker’s paradise and home to some of the most breathtaking and scenic trails in the United States. Surrounded by iconic red rock formations, lush canyons, and stunning desert landscapes, Sedona offers an outdoor experience like no other. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or just looking for a peaceful stroll in nature, there’s a trail for everyone. From heart-pounding climbs to peaceful pathways that wind through majestic scenery, the options are endless. After exploring Sedona extensively, I’ve narrowed it down to my Top 5 Hikes in Sedona that you absolutely can’t miss. These trails showcase the best of Sedona’s natural beauty, offering awe-inspiring views, unique geological features, and unforgettable moments for any outdoor enthusiast. Read on to find out which hikes should be at the top of your bucket list for your next Sedona adventure!
Tips for Hiking in Sedona
#1 – Go Early.
I feel like this is such an obvious tip, but it’s true for any of the popular hikes in Sedona. The earlier you go, the less people. Another reason to go early is to get less sun exposure. Most hikes in Sedona are in the full sun, with very little shade.
#2 – Bring more water than you think you’ll need.
I don’t think I really need to expound on this one. You probably already know that Sedona is in the desert and it gets very dry and hot (even in Winter/Early Spring!). Please make sure to stay hydrated and bring more water than you think you’ll need!
#3- Bring lunch if you can.
On most of the hikes we did in Sedona, we spent more time exploring than we thought we would. I always tried to bring lunch or at least a good snack with us so we don’t get hangry!
#4 – Take a photo of the trail map on each hike you go on.
It’s very very easy to go off the trail in Sedona. Tourists have started to make their own well worn side trails, please do your best to stay on the marked trail!
#5 – Leave no trace!!
As Sedona becomes more and more popular, it seems tourists think leaving trash and graffitiing the red rocks is okay. Please don’t be this person. Please hike responsibly, stay on trails as much as you can, and pack out all of your trash! Let’s keep Sedona beautiful so that as many people as possible can enjoy it’s beauty!
Where to Stay on a Budget in Sedona
Click the name of the hotel to be redirected to the hotel on Expedia!
1. Sedona Village Lodge
- Cost: $85–$150 per night (depending on the season)
- Details: Located in the Village of Oak Creek, this lodge offers clean, simple rooms with great views of Bell Rock. It’s close to hiking trails and more affordable than staying in central Sedona.
- Tip: Book early for the best rates, and look for weekday discounts.
2. GreenTree Inn Sedona
- Cost: $120–$150 per night (varies by season).
- Details: Located near West Sedona, this hotel offers clean, comfortable rooms with free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and a pool. It’s a short drive to popular attractions like Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village and Cathedral Rock.
3. Baby Quail Inn
- Cost: $100–$140 per night.
- Details: A quaint and cozy inn in a quieter area of Sedona. Rooms are simple but well-maintained, and the property includes a hot tub. It’s close to hiking trails and downtown Sedona.
Top 5 Hikes in Sedona
#5 – Fay Canyon
Fay Canyon, located in the breathtaking red rock region northeast of Sedona, is one of the area’s most accessible and rewarding hikes. This relatively easy trail is perfect for hikers of all skill levels, offering a peaceful journey through a lush canyon surrounded by towering red rock walls. What sets this hike apart—and why it earns a spot in my Top 5—is the hidden gem you’ll discover along the way: a stunning, secret arch tucked off a side trail.
This hidden arch isn’t just a cool feature—it’s a spectacular spot with panoramic views of the surrounding red rock formations, making it a highlight of the hike. Finding the arch adds a sense of adventure and makes this trail truly unforgettable. If you’re planning your Sedona hiking itinerary, Fay Canyon is a must-do.
For detailed directions, tips, and step-by-step instructions on how to find the hidden arch, be sure to check out my full blog post linked below. It’s your ultimate guide to making the most of this incredible Sedona trail!
Hiking to Fay Canyon Arch Full Guide
#4 – Bell Rock Trail
Bell Rock is located near Cathedral Rock and is a beautiful, but challenging 0.8 mile hike. It earns the number 4 spot on my list of Top 5 Hikes in Sedona because of its iconic status and versatility for all types of hikers. This trail offers stunning views of one of Sedona’s most recognizable formations, Bell Rock. The trail is known for its accessibility, with options ranging from an easy stroll around the base to more adventurous scrambles up the rock itself. While we didn’t get a chance to hike this trail during our visit, it’s at the top of our list for next time. Bell Rock promises incredible panoramic views of Sedona’s red rock landscape, and its spiritual significance adds a unique dimension to the experience. If you’re planning your own trip to Sedona, this is a hike not to miss!
#3- Devil’s Bridge
Devil’s Bridge has gained significant Instagram fame in recent years, and it’s no surprise why—it’s one of Sedona’s most iconic and photogenic hiking spots. The highlight of this trail is a massive natural sandstone arch that you can actually walk across, offering an exhilarating experience and jaw-dropping views of the surrounding red rock landscape. There are several routes to reach the bridge, ranging in length and difficulty. If you have a 4×4 vehicle or ATV, you can drive partway up the trail to shorten your hike, while others can start from the parking area for a more traditional trek.
Whether you’re looking for adventure, incredible views, or the perfect photo opportunity, this hike is a must-do. For a step-by-step guide, including tips on which trailhead to use, parking information, and what to expect on the climb to the bridge, check out my full blog post linked below! It’s your ultimate resource for hiking Devil’s Bridge like a pro.
Hiking to Devil’s Bridge Full Guide
#2 – Soldier’s Pass Cave Trail
Soldier’s Pass Trail is one of my favorites because it feels like an adventurous scavenger hunt, leading you to a hidden gem: the stunning Soldier’s Pass Cave. Along the way, the trail is packed with fascinating sights, including the famous Devil’s Kitchen sinkhole and the Seven Sacred Pools, making the journey just as exciting as the destination. Finding the cave can be a bit tricky, and getting inside requires some rock scrambling, but the reward is absolutely worth the effort. The cave’s dramatic openings and views make it a must-visit for any Sedona adventurer.
If you’re planning to hike Soldier’s Pass Trail and want step-by-step directions on how to find the cave, tips for the scramble, and what to expect along the way, be sure to check out my detailed blog post linked below! It’s the ultimate guide to making the most of this incredible Sedona hike.
Hiking to Soldier’s Pass Cave Full Guide
#1 – Cathedral Rock
Cathedral Rock is easily my all-time favorite hike, and for good reason—it’s truly spectacular. The climb to the top is steep and challenging, but the reward is absolutely worth it. Once you reach the summit, you’re greeted with jaw-dropping panoramic views that will quite literally take your breath away. The sense of accomplishment combined with the stunning scenery makes this hike unforgettable. At the top, you’ll also find several side trails to explore, offering unique vantage points and up-close encounters with Sedona’s towering red rock formations. We had an incredible time wandering these trails and soaking in the beauty of the area.
For everything you need to know about hiking Cathedral Rock—including the best times to visit, where to park, essential hiking tips, and more—be sure to check out my detailed blog post linked below! It’s your ultimate guide to experiencing this iconic Sedona trail to the fullest.
Hiking to Cathedral Rock Full Guide
I hope this list of my Top 5 Hikes in Sedona was helpful! If you have any questions about any of these hikes, feel free to leave a comment below and I’d be happy to answer them!
Thanks so much for reading!
Megan
Pin this post to save it for later:
