7 Awe-inspiring Hikes in Sedona, Arizona

Sedona is a beautiful destination that is known for its unique red rock formations, and mystical vibes. Hitting the trails is an ideal way to experience the magic Sedona has to offer. There are no shortage of breath taking trail options in Sedona… there’s also no shortage of people out experiencing them. Our trail recommendations below try to balance the open space to explore with the best views. Regardless of your experience level there are perfect trails out there for you.

Before you hit the trails.

Because of the arid climate and hot Sedona sun, even with the easier trails, it’s important to be prepared. Bring plenty of water, lather on the sun block and bring a hat on your hike.

On the trails.

Protecting the land.

The secret of Sedona is out, and visitors flock to experience the etherial lands every year. In order to protect and preserve it, it’s important to minimize your impact as much as possible. Practicing the 7 Leave No Trace Principles ensures the land can thrive and everyone can enjoy the mystical area that is Sedona.

All the principles are important - but in Sedona, the one to pay extra attention to is Principle 2: Travel & Camp on Durable Surfaces. In the desert, microbiotic crusts form to help control erosion, preserve water and fertilize the soil. At first glance these can look like crusty, dry soil, but it’s actually a living web of bacteria and microscopic organisms.

These important ecosystems grow slowly and one miss step off-trail can destroy a decade’s worth of growth. So while you’re out, stay on the trail to help protect an important part of Sedona’s ecosystem.

Finding your way.

Because of the unique rocks that make up many of the trails, the trail markers maybe a little different than you're used to. In Sedona, two of the main ways trails are marked is with caged rocks and painted markings. Some trails are marked better than others, so make sure you take a picture of a trail map before heading out just in case you get turned around or lose service.

Picking your hike.

Options. Options. Options. There are so many breathtaking hikes in Sedona it’s hard to choose. Here are some trails that we love for their sweeping views and because they are less traveled. More or less, trails are listed from the 'easiest' to most challenging.

Fay Canyon Trail

2.3 miles round trip // Details on AllTrails

Best for: A leisurely stroll, with an option to scramble at the end for a killer view

This sandy flat trail is easy and beautiful. It’s got some nice shady spots and you get some peak-a-boo views of the surrounding red rocks. Once you hit the sign that says ‘end of trail’ you’ll see a rock covered hill. You can scramble up this section to explore. It’s not a very challenging scramble and the stunning views of the canyon make it more than worth it.

Courthouse Butte and Bell Rock Loop

3.9 miles round trip // Details on AllTrails

Best for: A flat hike at the base of the red rocks

This mostly flat and sunny hike gets you up-close and personal with the beautiful and iconic Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte rock formations. It's a pretty easy trail so it's great for all skill levels and the views are breathtaking. If you're looking for a little adventure, this trail leads to the Bell Rock climb where you can scramble up Bell Rock (more details below).

Doe Mountain Trail

1.5 miles round trip // Details on AllTrails

Best for: A mesa-top picnic with 360-degree views

Doe Mountain trail is short and not too technical. Once you reach the top of the mesa, you're rewarded with breathtaking views from all sides. There are plenty of places to have a picnic or simply to enjoy the views and watch the clouds go by.

Airport Loop Trail

3.2 miles round trip // Details on AllTrails

Best for: Sunset views

The sweeping views of the city and iconic rock formations like Thunder Mountain, Bell Rock, Courthouse Butte and Cathedral Rock make this a great hike to add to your Sedona list. It's a bit of a rocky trail, so you might want to bring your walking sticks if you have them. If you don't, don't worry - it can be done without them. It's a perfect place to watch the sunset, so plan your timing accordingly and make sure to bring a headlamp or flashlight in case it takes a little longer than expected to make it back to your car.

Margs Draw Trail

3.2 miles round trip // Details on AllTrails

Best for: Sunset views

One of the amazing things about Sedona is that the city is nestled so closely to the stunning red rocks. Margs Draw Trail really showcases that. The north end of the trail gives sweeping views of the city and the beautiful rocks that surround it. As you hike south down the trail you’ll get up close and personal with Snoopy and Camel head rock. The trail ends in the same lot as the Broken Arrow Trail so you can easily string a couple of trails together if you’re looking for an all-day adventure.

Bell Rock Climb

0.8 mile climb + walk in // Details on AllTrails

Best for: Free climbing and vortex vibes

Bell Rock is home to one of Sedona's energy vortexes, or energy centers, often used for spiritual rituals, self-reflection and healing, making it an extra magical place to visit. The vortex is towards the top of Bell Rock, so the higher you climb, the more intense the energy is.

You can access the climb from Courthouse Butte and Bell Rock Loop (details above). The first section of the trail is well marked, but soon the markings fall away and you're left on your own to pick the best path to scramble up Bell Rock. And it's a blast. You and your fellow scramblers pick their way up the rock and are rewarded with beautiful, sweeping views.

Munds Wagon Trail, Cow Pies and Hangover Loop

8.2 miles round trip // Details on AllTrails

Best for: A challenging hike and views that makes it all worthwhile

This trail system is on the longer and more challenging side, but the 360-degree views from the top are absolutely breathtaking. Since it's a loop, you get to decide if you want to start with Hangover or Cow Pies trail. We recommend starting with Hangover, but both ways have their perks.

Once you make it to the top, you have plenty of places to sit and enjoy the fruits of your labor. Bring a lunch and a beverage to enjoy while soaking in the views and watching the mountain bikers making their way up and down the mountain.