Top Hiking Trails in Sedona: Iconic Views and Unforgettable Adventures

Sedona is known worldwide for its striking red rock landscapes, spiritual energy, and outdoor adventure. For hiking enthusiasts, the region offers some of the most scenic and accessible trails in the American Southwest. Whether seeking panoramic viewpoints, peaceful forest paths, or the chance to explore natural rock formations up close, Sedona’s trail system has something to offer every level of hiker.

Below is a curated list of Sedona’s most popular and rewarding hiking trails—trails that capture the essence of the region and showcase the natural beauty that draws visitors from across the globe.

1. Cathedral Rock Trail

• Distance: 1.2 miles round-trip

• Difficulty: Moderate to difficult

• Location: Back O’ Beyond Road

Cathedral Rock is one of Sedona’s most photographed formations, and the trail to its saddle offers a short but steep hike with a big payoff. While the distance may seem manageable, this trail includes several rock scrambles and steep inclines. Once at the top, hikers are rewarded with sweeping views of the surrounding valley and sandstone spires.

This trail is best experienced during sunrise or sunset, when the light enhances the red rock and casts dramatic shadows across the canyon.

2. Devil’s Bridge Trail

• Distance: 4.2 miles round-trip

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Location: Dry Creek Road (via Chuckwagon Trail or forest road access)

Devil’s Bridge is a natural sandstone arch and a bucket-list destination for many Sedona visitors. The trail begins on a wide dirt road and narrows as it approaches the arch. The final ascent involves a short, steep climb up natural rock steps to reach the bridge itself.

Standing on Devil’s Bridge provides a thrilling photo opportunity and a chance to experience Sedona’s geological wonders up close. Due to its popularity, early morning and weekday hikes are recommended to avoid crowds.

3. West Fork Trail

• Distance: 6.9 miles round-trip

• Difficulty: Easy to moderate

• Location: Oak Creek Canyon

For those looking for a cooler, shaded hike through a lush canyon, West Fork Trail offers a completely different side of Sedona. Following a flowing creek through a forested canyon, this trail includes several stream crossings and showcases the contrast between Sedona’s high desert and its riparian ecosystems.

West Fork is especially beautiful in the spring, when wildflowers bloom along the trail, and in the fall, when the foliage turns gold and red. It’s a popular choice for families and visitors looking for a relaxing day hike.

4. Bell Rock Pathway

• Distance: 3.6 miles round-trip

• Difficulty: Easy

• Location: Village of Oak Creek area

Bell Rock is a well-known vortex site and one of Sedona’s most recognizable landmarks. The Bell Rock Pathway provides access to both Bell Rock and the nearby Courthouse Butte. This wide, relatively flat trail is ideal for casual hikers, families, or anyone wanting to explore without steep elevation changes.

Shorter routes are available for those looking for a brief walk with stunning views. The rock formations here are visible from many points along the trail and are especially beautiful during late afternoon hours.

5. Soldier Pass Trail

• Distance: 4.5 miles round-trip

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Location: Soldier Pass Road (limited parking)

This trail offers a combination of natural wonders, including the Devil’s Kitchen sinkhole, the Seven Sacred Pools, and panoramic views of Brins Mesa. Soldier Pass is an excellent hike for those wanting variety and fewer crowds than the more well-known trails.

While the trail itself is moderately challenging, the variety of terrain makes it interesting from start to finish. It also connects to several other trails in the area, allowing more experienced hikers to create longer loops.

6. Boynton Canyon Trail

• Distance: 6.1 miles round-trip

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Location: Boynton Pass Road

Boynton Canyon is another of Sedona’s energy vortex sites and a trail that blends red rock views with rich forest scenery. The trail begins through a desert landscape and transitions into a shaded box canyon, offering a mix of terrain that makes it one of the area’s more unique hikes.

At the end of the trail is a small overlook with views into the canyon and beyond. Birdwatchers and nature lovers enjoy this trail for its serene environment and potential wildlife sightings.

Tips for Hiking in Sedona

• Start early to avoid heat and crowds, especially in spring and summer.

• Bring plenty of water—despite cooler temps in spring, the desert is dry and hydration is key.

• Wear proper footwear; many trails include rock scrambles or uneven terrain.

• Respect the environment by staying on marked trails and packing out all trash.

• Check trailhead parking options; some lots fill early, and others require shuttle access during peak seasons.

See the Trails from a New Perspective

While hiking these iconic trails offers an incredible experience on foot, there’s another way to take in Sedona’s world-renowned scenery—from the air. Helicopter tours with Apex Air provide an unparalleled view of the same landmarks hikers work hard to reach. From above, formations like Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and Boynton Canyon reveal their full grandeur, rising out of the desert floor with sculpted ridges and vibrant color.

A flight over Sedona’s trail network offers more than just a unique view—it provides context. Seeing how the canyons, mesas, and rock formations connect from the air gives guests a better understanding of the geography and a deeper appreciation for the hikes they’ve completed or plan to take on.

Whether used as a scenic introduction to the region or a celebratory finale to a hiking adventure, a helicopter tour with Apex Air is an unforgettable addition to any outdoor itinerary in Sedona. It’s a way to experience the magic of the red rocks from every angle—grounded in the trail, and soaring through the sky.