I did a road trip to Sedona during COVID and was impressed by the hundreds of hiking trails that surround the town. If you look past the downtown sprawl of gemstone and incense stores, the land is really quite beautiful. Nestled among Arizona’s stunning red rock formations, Sedona offers some of the most accessible and visually rewarding hiking trails in the Southwest. Whether you’re traveling with family or simply prefer a gentler outdoor experience, these easy Sedona hikes deliver the area’s iconic beauty without the demanding terrain of more challenging routes.
Why Choose Sedona?
Sedona’s landscape offers a unique combination of natural beauty and accessibility. The area’s famous red rock formations create a dramatic backdrop for hikers of all skill levels, while many trails feature well-maintained paths with minimal elevation gain. This makes Sedona an ideal destination for:
- First-time hikers exploring the outdoors
- Families with young children
- Older adults seeking active but manageable adventures
- Photographers wanting easy access to stunning vistas
- Visitors with limited time who want to experience Sedona’s natural beauty quickly
5 Must-Try Easy Hikes in Sedona
1. Bell Rock Pathway
Length: 2.8 miles (round trip)
Elevation Gain: 475 feet
Highlights: Panoramic views, iconic rock formation, accessible trailhead
Bell Rock Pathway offers one of the most recognizable views in Sedona. This well-maintained trail circles the base of the bell-shaped formation that gives the path its name. With minimal elevation gain and clear pathways, this hike is perfect for beginners while still offering stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape.
The trailhead features ample parking and basic facilities, making it an excellent option for families. For those feeling more adventurous, several spur trails offer opportunities to climb higher on Bell Rock itself.
Bell Rock Pathway on Alltrails
2. Fay Canyon Trail
Length: 2.1 miles (round trip)
Elevation Gain: 164 feet
Highlights: Shaded path, cliff dwellings, natural arch
Fay Canyon provides a gentle walking experience through a scenic box canyon with towering red rock walls. The mostly flat trail winds through desert vegetation with plenty of shade, making it ideal for hotter days.
About a mile into the hike, an unmarked side trail leads to Fay Canyon Arch, a large natural stone arch that many visitors miss. The main trail ends at a rock wall with beautiful views of the canyon, providing a perfect spot for a picnic before returning.
3. Cathedral Rock Trail
Length: 1.2 miles (round trip)
Elevation Gain: 741 feet
Highlights: Iconic Sedona formation, sunset views, vortex site
Cathedral Rock is a bit more challenging due to its steepness, but if you are able to hike on steep terrain for a short distance then this is a great trail (I couldn’t write an article on easy Sedona trails without mentioning it). Cathedral Rock is possibly Sedona’s most photographed landmark, and the trail to its saddle point offers spectacular views with a relatively short distance. While it does have some steep sections, the trail’s brevity makes it accessible for most beginners willing to take their time.
The trail leads to a natural saddle between Cathedral Rock’s famous spires, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding red rock landscape. This location is also one of Sedona’s famous “vortex” sites, making it a popular spot for meditation and reflection. The trail is especially magnificent during sunset when the rocks glow a brilliant red-orange. Keep in mind that there are usually lots of crowds during that time.
Oak Creek crossing at the Red Rock Crossing area also offers easy access to views of Cathedral Rock from below, perfect for those seeking Cathedral Rock views without any climbing.
4. West Fork Trail
Length: 6.5 miles (round trip, but can be shortened)
Elevation Gain: 564 feet
Highlights: Shaded canyon, stream crossings, fall colors
While longer than other trails on this list, the West Fork Trail features such gentle terrain that it remains accessible to beginners who can handle the distance. This lush trail follows Oak Creek through a narrow canyon, crossing the stream multiple times on stepping stones and log bridges.
The shade and water access make this an excellent choice during warmer months. Hikers can turn around at any point, with beautiful scenery present throughout the entire trail. During fall, the canyon explodes with color as deciduous trees change, creating one of Arizona’s most beautiful autumn displays.
I did this trail in early January and although not as pretty without the fall colors, it was peaceful with fewer hikers and even some snow.
5. Courthouse Butte and Bell Rock Loop
Length: 3.6 miles (loop)
Elevation Gain: 341 feet
Highlights: Less crowded, varied terrain, geological features
The Courthouse Butte Loop offers a slightly longer but still manageable hike that circles both Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte. This trail tends to be less crowded than others in the area while still providing spectacular views of Sedona’s iconic formations.
With minimal elevation change and clear trail markers, this hike is suitable for beginners seeking a bit more distance. The varied terrain provides changing perspectives of the red rock landscape throughout the loop.
Best Times to Hike in Sedona
Sedona’s mild climate makes hiking possible year-round, but certain seasons offer distinct advantages:
- Spring (March-May): Moderate temperatures and wildflower blooms make this perhaps the ideal hiking season
- Fall (September-November): Comfortable temperatures return after summer heat, with gorgeous colors along creekside trails
- Winter (December-February): Least crowded season with occasional light snow dusting the red rocks, creating a magical landscape
- Summer (June-August): Early morning hikes recommended to avoid afternoon heat and monsoon thunderstorms
Essential Tips for Hiking in Sedona
- Bring plenty of water: Even on easy trails, the desert environment demands proper hydration.
- Wear sun protection: Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are essential in Sedona’s bright environment.
- Check parking requirements: Many trailheads require a Red Rock Pass or display of a National Parks America the Beautiful pass.
- Start early: Popular trails can become crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Stay on designated trails: Protect the fragile desert ecosystem by remaining on marked paths.
- Be wildlife aware: Watch for rattlesnakes in warmer months and give all wildlife appropriate space.
Experience Sedona’s Beauty Without the Challenge
Sedona’s landscape offers some of the most accessible natural beauty in the American Southwest. These five easy trails provide perfect entry points to experience the region’s famous red rock formations, diverse ecosystems, and breathtaking vistas without requiring technical hiking skills or exceptional fitness.
Whether you’re planning a family adventure or simply prefer gentler outdoor experiences, Sedona’s easy hiking trails deliver unforgettable natural beauty with each step. Pack your water bottle, camera, and sense of wonder—the red rocks are waiting.