When it comes to the best Sedona hiking trails, you have quite a few to choose from. Sedona is known for its incredible red rock landscape and hiking is one of the best ways to enjoy it. Many of the spots listed below, it is the only way. After doing some research, hitting the trails, and talking to our hotel concierge, here are the best hikes in Sedona.
There’s a reason Sedona Arizona is a popular hiking destination. The red rock landscape is simply incredible. This list of best hikes in Sedona will help you you get started in the right direction. Remember to take plenty of food, even more water and go early to avoid the crowds and the heat.
1. Devils Bridge
- Distance: 4.1 +/- miles roundtrip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Trailhead: Dry Creek Vista Trailhead
- Parking: Parking is very limited and this is a popular hike, so you can take the free Sedona shuttle (running Thursdays through Sundays) to the Dry Creek Trailhead if you don’t want to deal with parking.
The Devils Bridge Trail in Sedona is one of the area’s most popular hikes, leading to the largest natural sandstone arch in the region. So popular it was recently shown on Thursday night football. The trail begins with a gradual climb through red dirt paths and juniper trees before getting steeper and rockier as you approach the end. Along the way, the red rock scenery is stunning, with views that only get better the higher you go.
At the top, hikers reach Devils Bridge itself—a dramatic stone arch that you can carefully walk across or admire from the side. The arch is wider than it appear in photos. The overlook provides incredible views of Sedona’s red rock landscape, making it a perfect spot for photos and a well-earned rest. Though the trail can be busy, the payoff at the arch makes this hike one of Sedona’s must-do adventures.
2. Brins Mesa Loop
- Distance: 5.1 miles +/- (5.6 miles if you include the hike to Soldier Pass Cave)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Trailhead: Soldier Pass Trailhead or Brins Mesa Trailhead
- Parking: Parking at the Soldier Pass Trailhead is very limited. On the days when the shuttles are running (typically Thursday through Sunday), the parking lot at Soldier Pass Trailhead will be closed and you’ll have to take the shuttle. For the loop hike, the Brins Mesa Trailhead might be the better option if you want to park.
The Brins Mesa Loop in Sedona is a scenic trail that combines red rock views with peaceful stretches of high desert. The hike starts with a steady climb onto Brins Mesa, where wide-open vistas of Sedona’s sandstone cliffs and buttes unfold. The mesa itself is quiet and spacious, offering a unique perspective above town and a chance to enjoy Sedona’s landscape without the crowds of more popular trails.
From the mesa, the loop continues through canyons and desert terrain, mixing open views with shaded sections of juniper and pine. The variety makes the hike both interesting and rewarding, with new scenery around every turn. Whether for the sweeping views from the mesa or the solitude of the canyon stretches, the Brins Mesa Loop offers a classic Sedona adventure.
3. Boynton Canyon Trail to the Subway Cave
- Distance: 4.6 +/- miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Trailhead: Boyton Canyon Trailhead
- Parking: There’s a decent amount of parking at the Boynton Canyon Trailhead, but it still fills up quickly!
The Boynton Canyon Trail to the Subway Cave is one of Sedona’s most unique hikes, blending red rock views with a hidden gem along the way. The trail starts out winding through desert terrain, with tall cliffs rising above and occasional shaded stretches of forest. As you move deeper into the canyon, the landscape shifts, mixing sandstone walls with pockets of greenery that make the hike both scenic and varied.
A short spur off the main trail leads to the Subway Cave, a striking rock formation shaped like a tunnel with curved sandstone walls. Inside, the cave offers a cool, shaded spot and a perfect vantage point to take in the view through its natural “window.” This side trip has become a favorite among hikers and photographers, making the Boynton Canyon Trail to the Subway Cave a memorable Sedona experience.
4. Mescal Trail Loop
- Distance: 5.7 miles (We started at the Boyton Canyon Trailhead and this distance includes a stop at the Birthing Cave, see #6 below, which added about 0.6 miles to the loop)
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Trailhead: Boyton Canyon Trailhead or Mescal Trailhead
- Parking: The Mescal Trailhead is one of the trailheads served by the free Sedona shuttle. If you don’t want to deal with trying to find parking at the trailhead, the shuttle runs year-round Thursday through Sunday.
The Mescal Trail Loop in Sedona is a moderate hike that showcases sweeping red rock views with fewer crowds than some of the area’s busier spots. The trail winds around the base of Mescal Mountain, following slickrock sections and sandy paths through open desert terrain. Along the way, you’ll see impressive sandstone cliffs, wide vistas, and plenty of cactus and juniper, all framed by Sedona’s famous red rock backdrop.
Because the trail forms a loop, hikers can enjoy fresh scenery throughout, from panoramic overlooks to quiet desert stretches. It’s also popular with mountain bikers, adding a bit of energy and variety to the route. Whether for a peaceful hike, stunning photos, or just a chance to explore Sedona’s red rocks at a more relaxed pace, the Mescal Trail Loop delivers a classic outdoor experience.
5. Bell Rock Pathway
- Distance: There are a lot of paths in this area, but from the Courthouse Vista parking lot to one of the viewpoints on Bell Rock is about 0.8 miles round trip (if hiking the Bell Rock Loop Extension to Bell Rock Pathway to the Bell Rock Trail).
- Difficulty: Easy (but the trail can be hard to find near the bottom)
- Trailhead: Courthouse Vista Parking (the closest option) or the Bell Rock Pathway/Vista Parking
- Parking: This trailhead has a big parking lot but it still fills up quickly
The Bell Rock Pathway in Sedona is an easy to moderate trail that showcases some of the area’s most famous red rock formations. The path is mostly wide and flat, very popular making it great for hikers of all levels, and it offers open views of Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte along the way. The desert setting is full of sunshine, cactus, and striking scenery that looks especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset.
Hikers can keep it short with a stroll near Bell Rock or walk the full length of the pathway for more time in the red rocks. The trail is popular for photography and sightseeing, and it’s an easy way to enjoy Sedona’s landscape without a tough climb. Whether you’re out for a quick walk or a longer outing, the Bell Rock Pathway is a classic Sedona hike.
6. Bear Mountain Trail to Bear Mountain Summit
- Distance: about 4.6 miles roundtrip
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Trailhead: Bear Mountain Trailhead
- Parking: This is a relatively large parking lot. Since this hike is less crowded than some of the others, it can be easier to get a parking spot here.
The Bear Mountain Trail is a steady climb that rewards hikers with great views at the summit. It starts in shady forest and gradually gets steeper and rockier as you go up. Along the way, you might see wildlife, wildflowers, or colorful fall leaves, making the hike even more enjoyable.
At the top, the Bear Mountain Summit offers wide, open views of valleys, ridges, and distant towns. It’s a perfect spot to take photos, rest, and enjoy the cooler breeze before heading back down. The trail is both a good workout and a scenic adventure, making it a memorable hike.
The Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock Sedona, Arizona
A stay at the Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock is all about being surrounded by the beauty of Sedona’s red rock country. The resort sits at the base of Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte, giving guests incredible views right from the property. From the moment you arrive, the desert landscape sets the tone—bright sandstone cliffs, open skies, and the kind of scenery that makes Sedona famous. Whether you’re relaxing on your balcony, lounging by the pool, or simply walking the grounds, the red rock backdrop is always front and center.
Inside, the Hilton Red Rocks balances comfort with a touch of luxury. Spacious rooms and suites often feature fireplaces and private patios, giving guests a cozy place to unwind after a day of hiking or exploring. The resort offers a full range of amenities, including a spa, fitness center, and multiple pools, so you can recharge in whatever way suits you best. Dining on-site is another highlight, with menus that mix Southwest flavors and casual, resort-style meals—all enjoyed with those signature Sedona views.
What makes the Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock standout is how well the Hilton connects you to Sedona’s outdoors. Located away from the congestion of downtown Sedona, this is the place to hide from the big crowds. Guests are just minutes from trailheads like Bell Rock Pathway and Courthouse Butte Loop, making it easy to fit in sunrise hikes or evening strolls. Guided yoga, wellness programs, outdoor pools, outdoor workout areas, and even more ways you can enjoy the desert setting. Whether you’re in Sedona for adventure, relaxation, or a little of both, the Hilton Red Rocks gives you a front-row seat to it all.
