The Best Hiking Spots in Sedona for Every Level of Adventure
Sedona, Arizona, is a place where red rock formations rise dramatically from the earth, where every trail seems to lead to a postcard view, and where the scent of juniper and desert wildflowers fills the air. For hikers of all experience levels, Sedona offers an abundance of trails that promise adventure, beauty, and serenity. Whether you’re a first-time visitor looking for a leisurely stroll or a seasoned trekker seeking elevation and solitude, Sedona has the perfect trail for you.
Here are some of the best hiking spots in Sedona, organized from easy scenic paths to more challenging routes. And if you’re looking to take your Sedona experience to the skies, stick around to the end for a high-flying tip from Apex Air.
Easy Hikes: Scenic Views Without the Sweat
- Bell Rock Pathway
Distance: 1 to 3.5 miles (out and back, depending on your route)
Difficulty: Easy
Bell Rock is one of Sedona’s most iconic landmarks, and the Bell Rock Pathway is a fantastic option for beginners or anyone who wants to enjoy views without a steep climb. The trail is mostly flat with gentle inclines, winding through high desert terrain with views of Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte. It’s also a great spot to catch sunrise or sunset.
This hike is perfect for families, casual walkers, and anyone looking to feel the peaceful energy of the red rocks up close. Since it’s a popular trail, early mornings tend to be quieter.
- Fay Canyon Trail
Distance: 2.4 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy
Tucked away in the western part of Sedona, Fay Canyon is a relatively flat hike that leads you into a tranquil red rock canyon. Surrounded by cliffs and lush vegetation, this trail gives hikers a chance to see hanging gardens and seasonal wildflowers.
At the end of the trail, an unmarked path leads up to a natural arch for those wanting a little scramble and an extra view. But even if you turn around at the end of the main trail, the scenery is worth the walk.
Moderate Trails: More Distance, More Views
- Devil’s Bridge Trail
Distance: 4.2 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
If you’ve seen Instagram photos of hikers standing triumphantly on a narrow sandstone arch, there’s a good chance it was taken at Devil’s Bridge. This trail leads to the largest natural sandstone arch in the area. The first half of the trail is relatively flat, but the final climb becomes steeper and rockier, with a short but steep ascent to the arch itself.
Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with a panoramic view of red rock country and the exhilarating opportunity to walk across the bridge for a memorable photo.
- Soldiers Pass Trail
Distance: 4.5 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Soldiers Pass Trail is a fantastic loop that gives hikers access to several unique natural features. Early in the hike, you’ll pass the Devil’s Kitchen Sinkhole and the Seven Sacred Pools. As you continue, the trail climbs gradually, offering sweeping views of Brins Mesa and the surrounding cliffs.
This trail is ideal for those who want to see a variety of landscapes and rock formations without tackling a strenuous route. It’s also a trail rich with Sedona’s spiritual and geological history.
Challenging Hikes: Rugged Trails and Epic Vistas
- Bear Mountain Trail
Distance: 4.6 miles round trip
Difficulty: Difficult
Bear Mountain Trail is not for the faint of heart, but those who conquer it are rewarded with some of the best views in all of Sedona. This trail gains more than 2,000 feet in elevation, and there are several false summits along the way, so be prepared for a sustained effort.
The vistas from the top include sweeping views of Sedona’s red rocks, the Verde Valley, and on clear days, even the San Francisco Peaks near Flagstaff. Start early and bring plenty of water. This trail is a favorite for experienced hikers who want solitude and a sense of accomplishment.
- Wilson Mountain Trail
Distance: 11 miles round trip
Difficulty: Difficult
As the highest peak in Sedona, Wilson Mountain offers unparalleled views of the entire region. This trail gains over 2,500 feet in elevation and takes you from desert floor to high forest, with landscapes that change dramatically along the way. From the summit, you’ll look down over Oak Creek Canyon, Midgley Bridge, and the greater Sedona area.
This is an excellent hike for seasoned adventurers looking to spend a full day on the trail and see Sedona from a completely different perspective.
Don’t Miss the View from Above: Helicopter Tours with Apex Air
After exploring Sedona’s trails on foot, there’s no better way to appreciate the full grandeur of the red rock landscape than from the sky. At Apex Air, we offer breathtaking helicopter tours that reveal hidden canyons, towering spires, and remote rock formations inaccessible by trail. It’s a perspective that even the most experienced hikers can’t reach on foot.
From the moment you lift off, you’ll see Sedona’s geological wonders unfold in ways you’ve never imagined. Fly over landmarks like Cathedral Rock, Chapel of the Holy Cross, and Secret Canyon as your pilot shares insight into the area’s history and formation. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to make your trip unforgettable, a helicopter tour with Apex Air is the ultimate finale to your Sedona hiking adventure.
Final Thoughts
Sedona is a haven for outdoor lovers, offering hikes for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re exploring peaceful canyons, climbing to panoramic viewpoints, or traversing rugged mountain trails, the red rock beauty of Sedona is always just a few steps away. And when your legs are ready for a break, Apex Air will take your adventure higher.
Because sometimes, the best views come after a long hike. And sometimes, they come when you take to the skies.