Are you among the 57.8 million hikers across America? If so, then you may be looking for new places to hike.
Have you considered Sedona hiking tours and trails? Sedona red rock hiking offers some of the most incredible hikes in the country, rife with beautiful views and native plants.
With more than 200 trails in Sedona, you might not know where to begin when you plan your next trip. This guide offers you a list of the Sedona hiking trails you need to visit, along with information that will help you plan your next trip.
Bell Rock Loop Trail
Bell Rock Loop Trail is perfect for anyone in search of a quick loop. It measures 1.8 miles and is great for some quick exercise.
If you’d like to extend your hike, you can take a detour on one of the hike’s many side trails. Check out some of these amazing areas to explore in the surrounding area, but be sure to prepare yourself for the lack of shade, so it’s best to avoid this trail during the hottest parts of the day.
Prepare for your hike and always bring more than enough water, sunblock, and a hat.
At one point in the trail, a short loop off the main trail takes you partially up Bell Rock and offers amazing views. You have to be mindful of how steep this part gets, so never venture past your comfort zone.
This hike is 200 feet high and ranks as easy. It’s pet friendly, but you have to use leashes.
You can extend this trip by another half a mile or so if you begin your trip at the Bell Rock Vista Trailhead. This allows you to take in the sights while getting in some extra exercise.
You need a Red Rock Pass for $5 or an Annual National Parks Pass.
Fay Canyon Hike
Fay Canyon Trail is another easy Sedona hike. It’s slightly longer than Bell Loop Trail and is 2.5 miles around. It’s also slightly more elevated, at 273 feet.
Fay Canyon Trail is an out-and-back trail and requires a Red Rock Pass or an Annual National Parks Pass.
This beautiful trail allows you to enjoy stunning views the entire time, making it ideal for budding photographers or anyone in awe of natural landscapes. You’ll be surrounded by red sandstone walls and will see tons of native plants, such as desert wildflowers, cacti, and yucca.
Fay Canyon Arch is an incredible part of this hike. This sandstone forms an interesting formation and is located on the trail’s north side. There is also a short detour located off the main trail that leads to the arch’s base.
Courthouse Butte and Bell Rock are visible in the distance.
The Birthing Cave
The Birthing Cave is known for its amazing views and ease of access. Most of the hike is flat terrain with a wide path. Regardless of your ability level, you’ll enjoy the Birthing Cave.
This two-mile trip begins at the Long Canyon parking lot. After half a mile, veer to the left. You’ll soon see a large formation in the rocks that are shaped like a heart.
Once you get here, you’re at the Birthing Cave! You can access great views of all the red rocks from this cave. Just be careful because these rocks are slippery.
The Birthing Cave is at a similar elevation and is roughly 250 feet. You can walk pets on a leash. Keep in mind that this short trail gets crowded, so you may want to go earlier in the day.
You don’t need a Red Rock Pass to walk this trail or your Annual National Parks pass.
Wilson Canyon Hike
Wilson Canyon Hike is more elevated than previous hikes, coming in at 426 feet. It’s also slightly longer, measuring 2.6 miles. This out-and-back trail is also easy and requires a Red Rock Pass or an Annual National Parks pass.
This hike is known for being on the easier side. It begins at Midgley Bridge and is close to other trails if you finish early and want to try another hike. Since this is a relatively short hike with a good amount of shade, it’s a good summer trail.
You’ll see plenty of beautiful red rock Sedona scenery and a nearby creek perfect for the summer. Its elevation gain is minimal and the overall hike is described as leisurely and well-marked.
This trail tends to fill up fast, making parking a challenge. It’s best to arrive early so you can start hiking before crowds kick up!
Boynton Canyon Trail & Subway Cave
The last trail on this list is a fan favorite when hiking in Sedona. Although this hike is 7.3 miles long, you don’t have to go all the way around.
No matter where you are, you’ll experience wonderful views of red rock country. If you go all the way to Subway Cave, you’ll see some great views of Boynton Canyon.
There aren’t any trail signs that let you know where the Subway Cave side trail is, however, so you should be prepared to use GPS maps to help you navigate this trail.
When you do access Subway Cave, be careful of exposed trails and cliffs, as this can get dangerous. If ledges or heights bother you, this trail might not be the ideal hike for you to take.
This trail is also significantly more elevated and is 1,200 feet. It’s moderately difficult and is pet friendly if leashed.
As with other hikes, you need a Red Rock Pass for this hike or your Annual National Parks pass. This hike gets busy quickly, so it’s best to begin early, like 7 am.
Enjoy These Sedona Hiking Tours
Any of these Sedona hiking tours are perfect for your next adventure. You’ll take in some beautiful Sedona landmarks while enjoying exercise and plenty of fresh air.
While planning your weekend in Sedona, be sure to book with Wine Tours of Sedona. Our tours are customized to meet your unique needs and include wine country tours, microbrewery tours, Sedona hiking adventures, and so much more. Contact us today and book your next adventure.