Best Trails in Sedona

Trying to find the best trails in Sedona ? Bivy has great hiking, biking, paddling, climbing, skiing, riding and more, with hand-curated trail maps, as well as detailed driving directions.

1

Arizona, Coconino County

01 :43 hrs
3.4 mi
355.8103 ft
Hard

The hike starts with a steep climb up the north slope of Wilson Mountain and then descends down Sterling Canyon to the Vultee Arch trail. Much of the trail is through a pine forest that provides lots of shade during hot months. Hikers can either turn back after arriving at Vultee Arch or shuttle vehicles between the Sterling Pass trailhead and Vultee Arch trailhead for a one-way trip. There is no official parking at the Sterling Pass trailhead so you will need to park on the side of SR 89A.

2

Arizona, Coconino County

00 :07 hrs
0.3 mi
3.7316895 ft
Easy

Situated on the banks of Oak Creek, this small tent-only campground offers a beautiful backdrop for camping and outdoor recreation. Oak Creek Canyon is one of the most scenic and enjoyable spots in the Sedona area to spend time outdoors. The campground has 14 spots for tents that can be accessed from the parking area. Each site has a campfire ring, table, and grill. There are pit toilets available and drinking water. The cost per site is $20 per night and reservations must be made 3 days ahead of arrival.

3

Arizona, Yavapai County

01 :03 hrs
0.6 mi
172.43079 ft
Moderate

The trail up to the saddle of Cathedral rock is a short but tough climb with rewarding views from the top. The hike is very exposed with steep cliffs so wearing good hiking shoes is recommended. There are lots of other side trails in the area but the trail is marked with cairns to help show hikers the right path. There are also lots of trails around the base of cathedral rock that also offer good views without hiking up to the saddle. Avoid hiking the trail in wet or rainy conditions as it can be very slippery.

4

Arizona, Flagstaff

02 :58 hrs
3.3 mi
79.47644 ft
Moderate

The trail up the west fork of Oak Creek is a beautiful scenic hike that offers some of the best scenery in Sedona. The hike has very little elevation change as it follows the creek through the canyon making it a good choice for hikers of all levels. There are lots of creek crossings along the way so be sure to wear appropriate shoes. The trail ends where you can no longer hike further without walking up the creek in water. The hike is especially popular during the spring when flowers are in bloom and in the fall when the leaves are changing color. The hike is very popular and parking can fill up fast, especially on weekends. There is a fee to park and access the trail.

5

Arizona, Flagstaff

01 :31 hrs
1.6 mi
109.16516 ft
Moderate

This popular hike leads over varied terrain through scenic red rock country to the well-known spot of Chicken Point. The trail also leads past a sinkhole named Devil's Dining Room and has a connecting trail to Submarine Rock. The trail is mostly exposed but has very mild elevation change making it a good option for hikers of all skill levels. The trailhead is easily accessible and only requires driving on a dirt road for a very short distance.

6

Arizona, Yavapai County

01 :23 hrs
3 mi
157.50171 ft
Moderate

This scenic trail offers amazing views of the Sedona area from the top of a flat-top mesa. The trail starts from the same trailhead as the Bear Mountain trail and heads southwest climbing to the top of Doe Mountain. At the top hikers can then explore the mountain top and take in beautiful landscape views of many of Sedona's most prominent red rock landmarks. Just before arriving at the top of the mesa the trail narrows out and becomes steeper. This is the only way back down so pay attention to where the trail meets the top of the mountain for the return trip back.

7

Arizona, Coconino County

01 :23 hrs
3.6 mi
69.49072 ft
Moderate

The loop trail around Courthouse Butte and Bell Rock is considered one of the most scenic red rock settings in all of Sedona. The trail is quite flat and easy making it a great choice for hikers of all levels. There are two trailhead/parking areas that can be used to access the trail, both located just off of SR 179. There are other popular trails that branch off the main loop trail including the Llama Trail and Big Park Loop. Mountain biking is allowed on certain sections of the trail as well as some of the connecting trails so watch for others when on the trail.

8

Arizona, Flagstaff

00 :27 hrs
1.2 mi
10.584717 ft
Easy

This campground located in Oak Creek Canyon is a popular camping destination for visitors to the Sedona area. Oak Creek Canyon is known for its beautiful scenery and abundant recreational opportunity. The shaded campground is within very close proximity to hiking trails in the canyon as well as many red rock adventures nearby. The campground consists of sites that can accommodate equipment up to 30 feet in length. Amenities including drinking water, vault toilets, grills, and firewood. There is also a general store. Reservations must be made at least four days in advance. Fees are $20 per night.

9

Arizona, Flagstaff

01 :15 hrs
3.1 mi
60.018677 ft
Moderate

The trail to Submarine follows the Broken Arrow Trail for one mile before branching off to the left. The trail then continues to Submarine Rock where hikers can explore the many trails that travel around the base of the rock formation as well as trails that lead to the top where excellent views of the surrounding area are available. After spending time at Submarine Rock you can return the way you came or continue on Broken Arrow Trail and even further on Little Horse Trail.

10

Arizona, Flagstaff

01 :41 hrs
6.4 mi
131.02356 ft
Expert

This loop ride combines multiple trails in the Sedona area for a scenic and very challenging trip that offers a wide variety of technical elements for experienced riders. Along the route riders will encounter lots of slickrock, some steep drops, narrow singletrack, stairs, and more. There are a few short sections that follow jeep roads and paved roads to complete the loop. Many of the trails in the loop are also popular with hikers so be careful and watch out for others.

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