Hiking in Sedona, Arizona.
We share some great trails and important reminders for first-time visitors.
We’ve been in Sedona for three weeks and we’ve enjoyed every minute of it.
The red rock landscape, with its gorgeous hues of red, brown, and tan, is mesmerizing when the sun hits it in the morning or evening. Coupled with the usual vibrant blue sky and crisp, fresh air, it’s easy to see why people want to plant their flags here and call this place home.
Then there are the hundreds of miles of hiking and ATV trails. This is what makes Sedona so damn enticing. Every day is a new adventure waiting to happen if you’re willing to get out and explore.
We love hiking in Sedona because it’s magical.
People have explained the magic of the vortexes, the swirling, unexplainable energy that’s supposed to transform your soul. In fact, this is a big draw (and business) for seekers of enlightenment and spiritual healing. While I can’t say for sure what I believe regarding this metaphysical world, I do know Sedona creates a feeling of peace and happiness.
Whatever you choose to believe, there’s no doubt this is a magical place.
If you’ve never been to Sedona, you’ll learn quickly experience what I mean. You’ll experience a community of people from all walks of life who LOVE being outdoors, whether it’s a casual stroll, a five-mile hike, practicing yoga in the mountains, or hauling ass in one of the many dune buggies available for rent. Real life exists outside in the fresh air. And it is incredible.
If you don’t experience the positive vibes the first moment you see the beauty of the landscape while driving on Highway 179 or 89a, you will undoubtedly feel them once you're on the trails.
Our favorite hiking trails so far.
Unfortunately, we haven’t yet had the chance to experience some of the most highly recommended trails. The first week in Sedona, the weather was unseasonably warm for January, and we did our best to make the most of it. The second week was filled with rain, sleet, and snow -- which was incredible in its own way, but it hampered our ability to get outdoors.
However, we can share some of the trails we’ve enjoyed so far.
Airport Loop Trail
This 3.2 mile hike offers many breathtaking views of the surrounding area. It loops around the Sedona airport and is a moderate challenge because most of the route is extremely rocky. There were very few people on this trail, which was really nice, but there was plenty to see.
The trailhead is ALWAYS packed with cars, so we had to park up by the airport. It was worth the three-dollar parking fee, but it did add an extra 1.5 miles to the trek. It took Donetta and me a little over three hours to complete, and it was definitely worth the experience.
Slim Shady and Made in the Shade Trail
If you’re looking for a more leisurely hike with a fantastic view of Bell Rock Mountain, this 2.3 mile loop will not disappoint you. The hiking trails are mostly easy, with a couple of challenging spots, but you will experience a variety of landscapes, from open mountain views to dry-gulch valleys.
One thing we didn’t like about this trail was the constant fear of getting bulldozed by mountain bikers. Many bikers call out, letting you know they’re there and how many people are in the group, but a few jackasses suddenly showed up behind us, and they almost got bitch slapped by me!
Parking at the trail head can also be a challenge, especially on weekends, so arrive early to make the most of it.
Bell Rock Loop Trail
The Bell Rock Loop Trail was our first hiking experience in Sedona. It’s rated moderate, but aside from a couple of rocky spots, it was pretty simple for us. The loop is 2.2 miles and is a perfect introduction to the area. You’ll be able to capture excellent photos while taking your time to explore the various plants in the area.
As with all trailheads in Sedona, it’s best to arrive early as parking is limited. You’ll also need to secure a parking permit at all locations. More people use this trail because it's accessible, so if you want solitude, head higher into the mountains.
Chapel of the Holy Cross Trail
This out-and-back trail near the Chapel of the Holy Cross is a moderate hike with incredible views. At 1.3 miles, it’s a great way to get out into nature without needing to carry supplies. It’s also a heavily trafficked site, but there are excellent spots where you can stop to meditate or “medicate.”
If you want to see some killer views, be sure to walk up to the chapel! If you’re unable to walk up the steep hill, there is someone who will pick you up in a golf cart. Whether you want to hike or not, don’t miss out on visiting this incredible location.
Some helpful hiking tips for Sedona.
We’re not hiking experts by any stretch of the imagination, but we’re learning a lot on our trips into the great outdoors. Here’s some advice we offer if you’re going to hike in Sedona.
Start early. Traffic and visitors really amp up around 11 am MST, so if you don’t get to the trailhead before then, you probably won’t find a parking spot. This can lead to hours of frustration and day drinking.
Bring water. Speaking of drinking, be sure to hydrate properly BEFORE going on a hike, and bring water with you—even when it’s cool or cloudy outside. But please don’t use and discard plastic water bottles.
Purchase a pass. You must have a parking pass for most, if not all, of the trailheads. You can purchase this at the Sedona Chamber of Commerce. If you have a national park pass, you’re good to go.
Pack accordingly for your hike. You really don’t need much gear for a simple excursion, but I recommend being more prepared for three-mile hikes or more. This includes trail snacks, a rain jacket, water, and a pocket survival kit.
Be a friendly tourist. It goes without saying that we should be kind to others and respect the rules of being outdoors (they are posted everywhere). Leave the trail happy and good as it was when you started.
Get out there and enjoy!
Hiking in Sedona has been a highlight, and the best advice we can offer is to get out there and enjoy it. Reading about the experience will never do it justice. You have to walk the walk.
Happy hiking, everyone.
Have fun and be safe.