Sedona is renowned for its outdoor lifestyle, offering a plethora of activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and outdoor yoga. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast or someone seeking tranquility in nature, Sedona caters to all preferences. Immerse yourself in the mesmerizing beauty of the Red Rocks, just as we did, by exploring some of the finest trails that captivated us during our brief visit. Below is a compilation of our favorite hikes that should unquestionably be on your must-experience list!
Devil’s Bridge Trail: Conquering Sedona’s Iconic Natural Arch
Situated 5.7 miles from downtown Sedona, the area boasts its largest natural sandstone arch. Despite its brevity at just 4.2 miles round trip, this hike is characterized by its steep ascent. To make the most of your experience, plan to arrive early, as this trail is immensely popular, and parking spaces are swiftly claimed. During our visit just after 9 am, the lot was already full, prompting us to park on the street beyond the lot perimeter.
The trailhead is accessible via a 3/4-mile path that originally served as a jeep trail winding through washes. As you approach the trailhead, the path gradually gains elevation, transforming into a steeper ascent. Follow the cairns along the route, guiding you to the initial set of natural rock staircases. Upon reaching the summit of the first plateau, a panoramic view of the entire valley unfolds. Ascend one more set of stairs, and you’ll find yourself standing atop the bridge, completing the journey.
Embark on an enjoyable family-friendly hike, but exercise caution with younger children due to the narrow and steep nature of some stairs along the trail.
Learn more of our hike to Devil’s Bridge here.
Cathedral Rock: Sedona’s Towering Icon
Embark on a brief yet challenging adventure at Cathedral Rock, located just a short drive from Sedona’s city center. Begin your journey by driving 4 miles outside of downtown to reach the trailhead situated on Back O Beyond Rd. Get ready for a 1.3-mile hike that promises both excitement and breathtaking scenery.
While the hike itself is relatively short, the elevation gains of 740+ feet make it a strenuous endeavor. A brief stroll from the parking lot leads to a near-vertical ascent to the summit. Along the way, encounter several narrow slots that require a bit of effort to ascend. The rewarding panoramic views at the top, especially during sunset, make the challenging hike well worth it.
I strongly suggest opting for hiking boots with excellent traction, and I advise against bringing younger children along for the hike. If the climb seems challenging, there’s a scenic trail encircling Cathedral Rock that offers stunning views from below. This trail is recognized as one of Sedona’s premier hiking experiences!
Echoes of Outlaws: Unveiling the Secrets of Robbers Roost, Sedona’s Historic Hike
Robbers Roost presents a challenging 3-mile out-and-back trail, with reaching the trailhead posing the greatest difficulty among the listed hikes. To access it, head south on 89A from Sedona and turn onto 525C, a rugged dirt road situated on BLM land with numerous washout spots. Navigating this road requires a high-clearance vehicle, or alternatively, you can park and cover the remaining 3/4 mile on foot, facing a 300ft incline. The trailhead’s coordinates are 34.9311, -111.97217.
Ensuring you stay on the trail can be demanding, and I strongly recommend using an app like AllTrails. Download the map in advance, as cell service becomes unreliable. The trail isn’t well-marked, making the map an essential guide.
Once on the hike, reaching the mount’s summit rewards you with a stunning valley view. Following the left path leads to a narrow ledge on the mount’s front side—be cautious if you have a fear of heights. Traversing the ledge eventually opens up to reveal the captivating Robbers Cave!
I advise against young children attempting the journey to the cave. However, the hike offers stunning views of the valley and showcases beautiful wildflowers, making it an enjoyable experience for kids. If you decide to venture to the cave, make sure to wear sturdy hiking boots with excellent traction on the challenging ledge.
Indiana Jones in Sedona: Tracking Down the Seven Sacred Pools
Experience a fantastic family-friendly hike suitable for all skill levels! Please note that parking at the trailhead is limited, and street parking is not available. The gates open at 8 am and close at 6 pm, so plan your visit accordingly.
The trail itself spans just over 1.1 miles, with the option to extend your hike. Initially, the path guides you to the impressive Devils Kitchen sinkhole, measuring approximately 40 feet in depth and 70 feet in diameter. Informative plaques along the way provide insights into the geological wonders of the area.
After exploring the sinkhole, return to the trail and head north. Follow the well-maintained path, and you’ll soon encounter the Seven Sacred Pools, adding another layer of natural beauty to your hiking experience.
Embark on an enjoyable hike perfect for kids! The trail, easily navigable and impeccably maintained, promises a delightful experience. Amidst abundant Sedona flowers and diverse plant life, this path ensures enjoyment for everyone, regardless of age.
Have information about hikes not mentioned here? Share them with us!
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