9 Amazing Hikes in Sedona for Your Next Road Trip

Sedona, Arizona is a magical place, especially for outdoor lovers. It is one of our favorite areas to visit. This place is full of beautiful landscapes, awesome hidden caves and arches, amazing hikes and so much more. Even though Sedona is surrounded by breathtaking views, the majority of these views will require some hiking. Therefore, we have compiled a list of some of the amazing hikes in Sedona that you can add to your next road trip itinerary. The list is in no particular order.

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1. Cathedral Rock Trail

Distance: 1.3 miles R.T. | Elevation Gain: 774 ft | Level: Moderate with several difficult sections

There is a reason why Cathedral Rock Trail is on the list for amazing hikes in Sedona. For a short hike, this trail is full of personality. It offers incredible and diverse views of the surrounding areas, as well as many awesome secret spots, if you’re willing to explore. This is is in addition to the breathtaking view on the top, which is the main attraction of this hike. This one is a must-do on your hiking list.

2. Fay Canyon Trail

We love Fay Canyon trail because it is one of those rare short hikes in Sedona that still give you incredible views. It is a perfect hike for a quick work out or in addition to another cool hike in the area such as Boynton Canyon trail. Fay Canyon trail also has a super neat arch that is hidden off of the main trail. It is a bit challenging to get there, but it’s not that bad. This trail is also family friendly, in case you want to bring your kids with you.

3. Boynton Canyon Trail

Distance: 6 + miles R.T. | Elevation Gain: 738 ft | Level: Moderate

Right down the street from Fay Canyon, Boynton Canyon trail is hands down one of our most unique hikes in the area. There is the famous Subway cave hidden off-trail on this hike. It is challenging to find this cave but it is an amazing pay-off when you do. Words and photos cannot describe the feeling of being inside this magical place. It is something you have to experience for yourself. Because of this cave, Boynton Canyon trail has become one of the amazing hikes in Sedona.

4. Birthing Cave Trail

Distance: 2 miles R.T. | Elevation Gain: 400 ft | Level: Mostly easy with steep climb into the cave.

Birthing Cave Trail is another short hike with amazing views. It is not too far from the famous Devil’s Bridge trail so it is a perfect add-on hike after Devil’s Bridge. This trail takes you to giant, sacred cave with beautiful views. Birthing Cave is believed to have healing power, and is a sacred place in Sedona where women all over the place come in hopes of getting pregnant or having a healthy pregnancy.

5. Devil's Bridge Trail

Distance: 2 – 5.8 miles R.T. depends on the route | Elevation Gain: 500 ft | Level: Moderate

Devil’s Bridge Trail is another popular trail in Sedona, and for good reason. This hike will takes you to the most iconic natural sandstone arch in Sedona. At 54ft tall, it is the largest arch in the area. Besides the breathtaking views on the arch itself, the hike here is also beautiful as well.

6. Robbers Roost Trail

Distance: 0.3 – 3.4 miles R.T. depends on the route | Elevation Gain: 560 ft | Level: Easy with steep climb to the cave.

Robbers Roost Trail is an easy hike to one of the coolest wind caves in Sedona. Depending on if you have a 4WD or not, it can be a super short hike as well. Many people believe that there is a vortex in this cave. Whether you believe it or not, it is an incredible, and almost spiritual experience being inside this cave.

7. Soldier Pass Trail

Distance: 4 miles R.T. | Elevation Gain: 500 ft | Level: Moderate

Soldier Pass Trail is another must-do if you’re visiting Sedona. Despite the difficulty in finding parking, this trail is still very popular. This is because Soldier Pass trail will take you through at least 3 beautiful sites, with one more amazing than the last. This trail will take you through the neat sinkhole known as Devils Kitchen, followed by the beautiful 7 Sacred Pools, then the breathtaking hidden cave and the amazing panoramic views of the area. This is why Soldier Pass Trail is one of the amazing hikes in Sedona.

8. Bell Rock Climb

Distance: 0.7 – 3 miles R.T. depends on the route | Elevation Gain: 609 ft | Level: Moderate to difficult

Climbing Bell Rock is an amazing experience for those who want a bit more challenge. It started at the same trailhead for Bell Rock trail, however, you’ll make a detour and climb up the side of Bell Rock to the top of the spires. It is not for the faint of heart but the view on top is amazing! If you’re up for it, we recommend trying at least once. It helps to wear good shoes with great traction!

9. Sedona Cave Trail

Distance: 0.5 miles R.T. | Elevation Gain: 55 ft | Level: Easy with steep, technical climb when exploring the cave

Sedona Cave Trail is a super short, off the beaten path trail that will take you to an awesome cave system in Sedona. This cave is more than meet the eyes. It is pretty cool to go through all the connected chambers.

Happy Adventuring. Don’t forget to check out the related posts below for more inspiration on your upcoming adventures. While you’re at it, go follow us on Instagram and subscribe to our Youtube channel! We’ll love you forever!

These are the gear that we personally use and find them helpful for this particular adventure. Don’t forget to check out our Recommended Gear section as well.

adventure gear

Good hiking shoes are recommended on these adventures. Vy uses the Merrell Women’s Moab 2 hiking boots

Good hiking shoes with good traction are best. Dustin’s shoes are Targhee III Waterproof

There isn’t a lot of shade in the desert. Make sure to use lots of sunscreens! We use eco-friendly, reef-safe sunscreen, Stream2Sea SPF 30.

Face sunscreen is also important. We love these tinted, organic All Good Organic Sunscreen Butter.

You should bring plenty of water on your hikes. Vy loves the Camelback L.U.X.E.

For shorter hikes, the Patagonia Women’s Nine Trails Pack 18L is perfect to hold water and your essentials.

Sedona can get very cold in the winters and springs. We love our packable Patagonia Puff Jackets! You can get Vy’s version here, and Dustin’s version here.