Best Hikes In Sedona | 8 Amazing Hikes

March 23, 2019 / posted in Sedona / 12 comments

What is the best hike in Sedona? Well you are about to find out what the best hard hike is, the best easy hike in Sedona and some of the best hikes with incredible views and caves.

Sedona is arguably one of the best places to hike and most beautiful settings in North America… write that down as I will stand by it. It truly is an outdoor mecca in the entire continent and the perfect place to get outside & unplug.

West Fork Trail Best Hikes In Sedona

There are hikes for every level of fitness, which makes it great for adventure lovers, families and everyone. I personally like my hikes to challenge me, be an adventure and at the end ideally have a payoff thus that is how my list is ranked.

Subway Cave Trail Hike Boynton Canyon Sedona

The pay-off can be a beautiful view, caves, a swimming hole, a waterfall or even some some cliff-jumping. Since the creation of this article we have added a 6th hike to the list, that is how amazing Sedona hiking is!

All of these below are must dos and there are hikes for all levels. No matter your age you will be able to enjoy at least one or two of the hikes below and able to take in the beautiful splendor that is Sedona. For The Sedona Bucket List: 13 Things You Must Do, Click Here

Sedona is one of the prettiest and best outdoorsy places in the USA and I want to make sure you see all of the best spots. It checks most boxes for reasons to travel and is truly stunning the second you round the corner to view those red rocks.

There are patios galore, it has amazing weather, beautiful scenery and activities for days. If you love Sedona then you will be infatuated with Zion National Park, which is just 4 hours away. See the full Zion Bucket list here!

Subway Cave Trail Hike Boynton Canyon Sedona

Moving to Phoenix 10 years ago I was told that I needed to go to Sedona and always thought it sounded overhyped. Fast forward to present day and I have been there countless times from day trips, weekend hike trips, romantic trips, weddings and more!

There is just so much to do! See here for Best 8 restaurants in Sedona, top things to do in Sedona, and an amazing romantic couples weekend

Best hikes in Sedona Wet Beaver Creak

An example of my likes/dislikes is how Bear Mountain is my favorite and how I suggest not to waste your time at Slide Rock (unless you have little children). At the bottom of this list I also have top places to stay while in Sedona. 

West Fork Trail Best Hikes In Sedona

Below you will find Sedona hikes that will have you in awe from incredible views, beautiful swimming holes, lazy streams, stunning caves and everything you could want from a hike. With all of that said, here are the best 6 hikes in Sedona.

Subway Cave Trail Hike Boynton Canyon Sedona

1. Bear Mountain Trail

Difficulty:

Strenuous

Elevation Gain:

2,000 Feet

Length:

4.5 Miles | 2.5-5 Hours | Out & Back.

This is the perfect all around hike in Sedona with multiple breathtaking views. If you want a challenge and a top 3 view of Sedona then this is the one.

Best hikes in Sedona Bear Mountain

This hike is a beast, however, it is stunning and every turn of the trip brings a new view more beautiful than the one prior.

I suggest packing a lunch and having a picnic overlooking one of the amazing views. My 55+ year-old parents who are in good shape made it so it is possible for all ages but be prepared that it isn’t easy.

Pros

  • Top 3 views of Sedona.
  • If you can’t make it to the top there are plenty of payoff views prior so don’t feel bad!
  • Dog Friendly (On a leash).
  • Amazing unique views throughout the hike.
  • You get a serious workout so can splurge at the wineries and restaurants after.

Cons

  • You have to pay $5 for parking. Credit cards accepted.
  • Not a con but the only thing that could get this hike ranked 5 stars would be if there was a waterfall or swimming hole at the end.
  • It is pretty hard.

Tips

  • As mentioned parking is on the opposite side of the road from the Bear Mountain Trailhead so don’t start up the wrong trail!
  • Watch the weather, might be worth bringing a light jacket as it can be much cooler at the top if the weather is turning at all.
  • There is a but of a false summit so don’t be let down when you have more to go once you think you make it to the top.
  • Bring extra water as even if you don’t need it maybe another hiker will be struggling.
  • Pack a snack just in case and even have lunch at the top.
  • This is a pretty hard hike so don’t take it too lightly.

2. Soldier's Pass To Secret Caves

Difficulty:

Moderate - Easy Until Going Up To Caves

Elevation Gain:

900 ft

Length:

4.5 Miles | 2-3 Hours | Out & Back

Soldier’s Pass is in the top 3 hikes in Sedona as it has secret caves that are amazing! I had the hike outside of the top 3 but after seeing the Soldier’s Pass caves I absolutely have changed my tune. I always say I love hikes with a payoff and this hike has 3 unique sites to see along with the typical beautiful landscape along the way.

It truly is one of the prettiest and most serene settings in all of Arizona. If you are lucky enough to be here alone this might be one of my favorite hangouts of all time and definitely a favorite shorter hike.

The hike itself is easy until the last 2/3rds of a mile where you descend up the hill to go to the caves, which goes to moderate/hard.

Best hikes in Sedona Soldier's pass trail

A lot of the hike you are in and out of trees offering a lot of shade, which is nice if you are there in the summer. It is the best length of a hike to get in your exercise but it’s also not a killer and I have seen all ages do it.

Pros

  • Three unique things to see on this hike
  • Not too difficult of a hike
  • Perfect length of a hike, not too long and not too short.
  • Stunning picturesque cave
  • The 7 Sacred Pools offer a really pretty picture contrasted with the hills behind it
  • Devil’s Kitchen sinkhole is a fun addition

Cons

  • Parking is way too limited. Additional parking at Jordan Road Trailhead but it adds another mile to the hike
  • They put sticks across the fork in the road where you go to the caves, which throws people off… maybe a good thing?
  • The caves can get very busy during peak times and on weekends
  • The main cave is hard to get up into and shouldn’t be done by people who are not pretty athletic

Tips

  • Additional Soldier’s Pass parking at Jordan Road Trailhead
  • Use the iPhone Pano setting when inside the cave if you can’t get the whole cave entrance
  • Go during the weekday to avoid crowds
  • Don’t hog too much time in the cave as others want to take pictures as well
  • Definitely get up into the main cave

3. West Fork Trail

Difficulty:

Easy

Elevation Gain:

850 Feet

Length:

7 Miles | 2-4 Hours | Out & Back

This hike is arguably the best relaxing and zen hike in all of Arizona. What also makes it great is that it is good for all ages and fitness levels.

Whether you are with your children or on the older side it is probably the best hike for all skill levels as it is almost entirely flat.

Best hikes in Sedona West Fork Trail

The hike itself is beautifully set along the creek of which you cross multiple times while the gorgeous red rocks tower above you.

There isn’t a major “payoff” at the end so feel free to turn around whenever you had your fill. Whether you are looking up or down the entire hike is worth every step.

Pros

  • Dog Friendly (On a leash).
  • Amazing changes in scenery throughout the hike.
  • Good for all ages.
  • You can turn back whenever you want without feeling like you’re going to miss something major.
  • Can be a great workout and trail run.

Cons

  • There is no true major payoff at the end but the whole way is multiple changes of scenery, which more than makes up for it.
  • Parking isn’t ideal. The lot costs $10 per car and it fills up quickly, especially in the busy season.
  • It can be busy but thankfully the parking size limit does curb that a little.

Tips

  • Bring water shoes or shoes that are okay being wet as you cross the water multiple times.
  • Go off the trail and walk up the creek for an added adventure with unique sites.
  • Pack a picnic.
  • Watch the weather, it can be flooded and rushing water post rainfall.
  • If there was recent rain then the water could be very muddy, not the end of the world but something to note.
  • You can camp in certain places.
  • There are beautifully colored crawfish in the waters if you look hard enough. There are fish as well who actually try to eat them.

4. Wet Beaver Creek Trail - The Crack

Difficulty:

Moderate

Elevation Gain:

340 Feet

Length:

7 Miles | 3-5 Hours | Out & Back

What is better than a nice hike with a giant swimming hole at the end! I know… this is just outside of Sedona town area but it is well worth the quick 25 minute drive from the town center.

Best hikes in Sedona Wet Beaver Creek

Also known as the hike to the Crack or Bell Trail, this hike is great as it is a good workout, not too hard and has the payoff of an amazing swimming hole, mini-waterfall and cliff jumping spot all in one. Definitely take a dip in the creek off to the right at the beginning of the hike. You can hike up the creek the entire way as well, which is a great adventure on its own!

Best hikes in Sedona Wet Beaver Creek

 

Pros

  • Dog Friendly (On a leash).
  • Amazing water hole with multiple cliff jumping levels at the end.
  • Incredible little creek on the way with water oasis and swimming holes to stop at during the hike.
  • Great distance to get some exercise and some sun.
  • Pretty flat throughout, long but not too tough.
  • Lots of parking and overflow parking.

Cons

  • It can be a little crowded and often younger people will be playing music with a small touch of a party atmosphere… doesn’t happen often and isn’t anything crazy but just something to be aware of.
  • Not much shade at all the entire hike so bring sunscreen and a hat. Get a dip in the creek on the way to cool off.
  • Follow the directions as there are forks in the road to other trails.

Tips

  • Go off the trail to the creek at the beginning and throughout to dip in some pretty little water holes along the way.
  • Hike the entire way via the creek. It is challenging so don’t do if you have any physical limitations.
  • Can make this an entire day trip with a picnic, hammocks, music and lounging at the swimming hole.
  • Bring some beer/wine for swimming hole (no glass) but pack out what you pack in.
  • Weekdays are a lot quieter if you want it less busy.

5. Sedona Subway Cave Hike

Difficulty:

Moderate

Elevation Gain:

1,000 ft

Length:

5.3 Miles Round-Trip | Out & Back

One of the most stunning pictures in all of Sedona is a hidden gem you have to see!

Subway Cave Trail Hike Boynton Canyon Sedona

The hike itself is not very hard aside from a bit of scrambling near the end and is just 5.3 miles with limited elevation gain.

As it is a secret the cave is notoriously hard to find! Luckily you have us and here is the link for the full directions to the Subway Cave.

Pros

  • One of the coolest pictures in Sedona
  • Also has open mouth caves around the corner
  • Has ruins around the corner
  • Path is shaded often, which is great during the summer
  • Boynton Canyon is a really pretty hike on its own
  • Lots of free parking just 500 feet down the street from the trailhead
  • Dogs allowed on a leash

Cons

  • No real cons! Great length of hike and good for most any level of hiker.
  • It is hard to find but with this article it should make it much easier.

Tips

  • Follow this guide or it can be hard to find
  • Be sure to see the ruins and other open mouth caves nearby
  • If you aren’t comfortable going straight up into the cave you can access the Subway easier by going to the left and walking up and around vs. directly up into the cave.

6. Devil’s Bridge Trail

Difficulty:

Moderate

Elevation Gain:

550 Feet

Length:

4.2 Miles Round Trip from Main Parking Lot | 2 Miles RT from Trailhead | 1.5-3 Hours | Out & Back

This is everyone’s favorite Instagram picture in Sedona. The hike isn’t too rough but some find it a little hard towards the end. With that said, I have seen all ages and fitness levels do it.

Best hikes in Sedona Devil's Bridge Trail

If you have a 4×4 definitely use it to get to the trailhead. The hike from the trailhead is great however walking the dirt road from the parking lot for an added hour lot isn’t ideal.

This is a great place to go if you rented an ATV so that you can drive right up to the trailhead and save an hour.

Best hikes in Sedona Devil's Bridge Trail

Pros

  • Dog Friendly (On a leash).
  • Arguably the best picture in Sedona when you reach the end.
  • Not too hard of a hike.
  • Good for kids if you hike from the DB trailhead.
  • Few good spots for pictures along the way.
  • I recommend renting an ATV and making this a stop to save time.

Cons

  • The 4.2 mile hike is 2 miles along a dusty jeep path or just off the side and no major changes of scenery until you get to the Devil’s Bridge Trailhead. If you are runners then it can be a good run to the trailhead.
  • The 2 mile hike itself from the trailhead isn’t that long or strenuous so you won’t get an amazing workout. Getting to the trailhead takes some slow 4×4 driving to get there so it’s a lot of driving and time for not a ton of hiking… the view is worth it to do once though!

Tips

  • Great if you rent an ATV and have that fun drive to the trailhead.
  • The bridge is much wider than it looks so don’t be scared to walk out there.
  • Tell someone you will take their picture and then have them take yours.
  • Don’t be a jerk and just sit out there while people wait to take a picture.

7. Cathedral Rock Trail

Difficulty:

Moderate

Elevation Gain:

750 Feet

Length:

2.4 Mile | 1-2 Hours | Out & Back

Cathedral Rock is another gem in Sedona with an amazing view at the end. The hike is almost a perfect length and difficulty for everyone to enjoy it and feel they got a workout in.

Best hikes in Sedona Cathedral Rock

There are some great views along the way and at the end you can go to the left to see even more breathtaking views and scenery. It falls in the middle of the hikes in this list in terms of difficulty.

Pros

  • Dog Friendly (On a leash).
  • Top 5 best pictures in Sedona when you reach the end.
  • Not too hard of a hike.
  • Good for kids
  • You can go a little further to the left for a less seen hidden area for more views.

Cons

  • The 2.4 mile hike isn’t that long, decent workout though and the view/picture are terrific.
  • Parking is scarce and can get very busy so avoid weekends during peak season.

Tips

  • Come early if you are there during peak travel times as the parking lot fills up quick.
  • Don’t be the jerk who stands in the money-shot spot for 10 minutes as people line up to take the picture… it’s happened twice now.
  • Tell someone you will take their picture and then have them take yours.

Honorable Mentions

Fay Canyon

Pretty nice but short. Great if you want a small hike.

Best hikes in Sedona Fay Canyon

Where to Eat In Sedona? See this article here for the top 8 Sedona Restaurants!

Where To Stay

  1. AirBnB. You can find some cheap gems and is the most efficient bang for buck in Sedona. With that said, AirBnB fees have been sky-rocketing lately so if someone with AirBnb is reading this I want you to know I’m unhappy and partially revolting… unless it’s too good a deal of course ;).
  2. Enchantment Resort is absolutely stunning. The accommodations, the restaurant and the views! You will have to pay for it though as it is very pricey but for the cost I would pick it over L’auberge de Sedona Resort & Spa
  3. L’Auberge de Sedona Resort & Spa is perfection but it comes with a cost. I would recommend spending 50% or less on your lodging staying elsewhere to spend more money on food, ATVs or other entertainment if you are on a budget. However, you must go to Sunday Brunch. While it is the most expensive brunch I have ever seen, it is definitely worth the experience.
  4. Kimpton Amara is the best higher end resort without costing a fortune. It’s also dog friendly with a great patio.
  5. The above 4 options above separated themselves from others but are more expensive, however if you want a good place to stay without paying a fortune checkout any of Sedona Rouge Hotel & Spa, Poco Diablo Resort, A Sunset Chateau or the Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock. Hotels seem to drop off after that in terms of quality.
6 Best Hikes in Sedona
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Hola! I’m Fraser & this site is a guide to help you reach your goals, travel the world and create amazing food in between. Get inspiration for travel, recipes & to follow your dreams.

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12 thoughts on “Best Hikes In Sedona | 8 Amazing Hikes”

  1. Deb

    Bear mountain was tough but amazing, my one other suggestions Is to hike in the morning to beat the heat.
    Can’t wait to go back and hike a few of these others!

    Reply
  2. John Sobey

    Devil’s Bridge was a great one! Got in about 9 am on a Saturday. Got a parking spot in the parking lot nice and close it work perfectly for walking it! Turned out to be the perfect time, there was some people but not too many. A line was starting to take “the picture” on the actual bridge, but not bad at all! Great hike, would recommend for all levels of hikers. Thanks #inspiretraveleat

    Reply
    1. Fraser Inspires

      Thanks for sharing and glad you loved it! Definitely one of nature’s wonders! Keep on sharing your stories and pics and we will feature them!

      Reply
  5. HEATHER

    The Broken Arrow trail is pretty easy and the views for minimal effort are fabulous! We did that our first day after traveling all night and wanted something not too exhausting!

    Reply
  6. Ma Wilson

    What about Hangover Trail by far the best we have done in Sedona and we have done many
    It isn’t even mentioned

    Reply
    1. Fraser Inspires

      Definitely a good one! There are a TON of amazing hikes in Sedona so hard to get them all on the list.

      Reply

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