Cathedrals, Devils, and Caves, Oh My!

Best Hiking in Sedona, AZ

If you're planning a trip to Sedona, one of the main attractions is the premier hiking in the area. We will go over some of the best hikes, how to hike them, and what you can find along the way! This is your guide to the best hiking in Sedona, AZ. 

Some trailheads might charge entry fees, so check with the USDA Forest Service to see if these fees apply to our list.

Cathedral Rock Trail

Looking for a challenging hike? The Cathedral Rock Trail has got you covered. It's a popular one that is pretty short, but don't let that fool you. The elevation change will make you feel like you just climbed a 55-story building. It's a great workout, and you get to be social with all the other people along the way.

Along the trail, you'll get to see the majesty of the aptly named Cathedral-looking rock formations. Getting to the top you'll be shaded by the beautiful rocks around you as you gaze off into the valley below you. The best part? You can hike there from the Cozy Cactus or Baldwin Trail off Verde Valley School Road and skip taking a shuttle altogether making this trail a perfect option for our guests!

Length: 1.2 miles (out and back)

Average Time: 1 hour

Elevation Change: 750 ft

Difficulty: Hard

Devil’s Bridge Trail in Sedona

This is a moderate yet doable trail with a beautiful natural bridge called the Devil’s Bridge at the end. You can start from either the Mescal Trailhead or Dry Creek Road. Along the hike, you will have plenty of scenic views of red rock contrasting with the lush desert greenery. 

When you get to the end, make sure you have a buddy take a picture of you on the bridge. If you are squeamish and don't like heights, this might not be the best idea unless you want an iconic photo of you throwing up off the edge to show your grandkids. 

Length: 3.9 miles (out and back)

Average Time: 2 hours

Elevation Change: 500 ft

Difficulty: Moderate

Boynton Canyon Trail

Boynton Canyon Trail is the longest trail we have mentioned on this list, but it is well worth it if you have 3 hours to spare during your trip; just be sure to bring enough water. This also makes the 900 feet that you'll climb a little less painful. 

Sometimes, the trail can get very crowded since it's so popular. If you do end up doing this hike, be sure to stop and see the beautiful canyon walls, Gordon’s Ridge, and the Subway Caves at the end. 

Length: 6.5 miles (out and back)

Average Time: 3 hours

Elevation Change: 900 ft

Difficulty: Moderate

Seven Sacred Pools of Sedona, Soldier Pass, and Brins Mesa Loop

This longer loop has a lot to do, so buckle up! Many hikers complain about the lack of shade on this trail, so bring lots of sunscreen and water.

Along the hike, you will find three beautiful attractions:

• The Seven Sacred Pools: A group of naturally occurring pools very important to the local wildlife. Sometimes, you can see tadpoles here, but remember, the pools are seasonal, so try to plan your visit when the stream that feeds it is strong. 

• Brins Mesa: Exactly what you would imagine when hiking in Arizona. It's beautiful and picturesque, so we invite you to stop and enjoy the scenery at every chance you get.



• Soldier Pass Cave: This cave at the end of Soldier Pass is beautiful if you can get inside. Be careful as you do this, and enjoy what a caveman would consider a 5-star hotel. 

Length: 5.6 miles (loop)

Average Time: 3 hours

Elevation Change: 1,000 ft

Difficulty: Moderate

Bell Rock Trail

This short trail is great if you only have a little time to spend and if you want to get some great pictures of the surrounding areas along the hike. Some hikers noticed that the trail wasn't marked as well as they would like, while others found their way with ease. Finally, you'll end up at the beautiful Bell Rock and enjoy the views over Sedona, AZ. The trailhead is conveniently located across the street from the Cozy Cactus. You can hike out our back patio and reach the start and begin your day with some fresh air and scenery!

Length: 0.8 miles (out and back)

Average Time: 30 minutes

Elevation Change: 200 ft

Difficulty: Moderate

Birthing Cave Trail

This hike is a very popular and moderate route that starts off with very little elevation change but, at the end, can require some light climbing. If you need to use AllTrails, they recommend downloading the trail beforehand because there is very little cell phone service.

Long ago, the Hopi tribe sent their women to give birth here as they believed their people were born at the earth's center. Because of this rock formation's appearance, they would make the trek during labor and give birth here for support and guidance. If you want more information about this hike, Earth Trekkers provides an excellent history about it. 

Length: 1.9 miles (out and back)

Average Time: 1 hour

Elevation Change: 250 ft

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Stay at the Cozy Cactus Resort “sorta/kinda”

We hope you enjoy all the hiking opportunities here in Sedona. There is much to do here, and we would be honored to be a part of your experience.

Come relax and enjoy our beautiful and cozy inn, which perfectly combines the personal touches of a B&B with the modern amenities of a resort. Here, you can recharge from your previous hike and be ready to take on the next one.