Posted by: Lori Reinhold

Hiking in Sedona tends to evoke words like “stunning,” “unbelievable,” and “awe-inspiring.” We couldn’t agree more. There is simply no better way to explore red rock country than getting outside and hitting one (or more) of Sedona’s countless world-class trails. We know that choosing the right one can be even more difficult than the hike itself, so we’ve assembled a list of our 5 favorite trails in Sedona. Add a few of these to your Sedona itinerary for a truly breathtaking adventure.

1. Fay Canyon Trail: Fay Canyon Trail is the perfect trail for the whole family. Unlike most hikes in the region, which involve steep inclines and rocky descents, this trail is flat. But just because it is relatively easy doesn’t mean you won’t see some striking sites. Travel deep into this beautiful box canyon to see red rock cliffs, waterfalls, and forests of large oak and juniper trees.

2. West Fork Trail: The West Fork Trail is the most iconic trail in Sedona. This 5.2 mile trail is a must-do for avid hikers and beginners alike. Over the course of the hike, you will cross at least 13 streams, traverse beautiful red rock canyons, and cool down in series of beautiful reflective pools. The trail starts at the ruins of the historic Mayhew Cabin, built in 1870 by a local wilderness man known for killing bears with nothing but a knife. The cabin was later transformed into a lodge where such famous celebrities as Clark Gable, Jimmy Stewart, and Walt Disney once stayed. The cabin was demolished by the Forest Service in 1976, but it is honored today as the start of the West Fork Trail.

3. Boynton Canyon Trail: This 6.4 mile hike offers some of the most varied landscapes in the region. Near the end of the hike, you’ll pass through a high forest of large pines, oaks, and alligator junipers. Take note of how the temperature changes once you leave the red rock box canyon and enter the woods. The trail ends in a quasi-plateau with striking views of the forests and canyons below.

4. Little Horse Trail: Over the course of this hike, you will pass some of Sedona’s signature formations: Cathedral Rock, Courthouse/Bell Rock, Gibraltar Rock, and the Munds Mountain Wilderness. The hike crescendos atop Chicken Point, but if you still have the energy, you can keep going and follow the Broken Arrow Trail to Submarine Rock. You’ll pass some beautiful wildflower meadows along the way.

5. Soldiers Pass: Sedona is known for its unique geology. That doesn’t just mean red rock formations and steep canyon walls. It also means arroyos, arches, sinkholes, reflective ponds, and mesas. The two main attractions of Soldiers Pass are the 7 Sacred Pools and Devil’s Kitchen, a sinkhole that contains two unique rock formations of its own: Pie Rock and Piano Rock. This 4-mile hike offers the added benefit of being close to town. Situated between Brins Ridge and Capitol Butte, Soldiers Pass is an easy way to see classic Sedona sites without traveling too far. Plus, you’ll get the chance to walk in the footsteps of the US Calvary and the native Sinagua Indians.

Coming to Sedona for your next big hiking adventure? Book a stay at the Alma de Sedona Inn for a luxurious place to lay your head after a fun-filled day on the trails.