Best Hikes in Sedona: A Local's Guide

If you’re searching “best hikes in Sedona,” you’re probably trying to answer one of these questions:

• What are the must-do Sedona hikes?

• What are the easy hikes in Sedona with big views?

• What’s worth it if I only have 2–3 days in Sedona?

• How do I hike popular trails without losing my will to live in a parking lot?

This guide is built like a local would plan it (because a local wrote it): quick picks first, then easy → hard, with practical notes so you can choose the right hike for your trip.

Cathedral Rock is one of my favorite "must-do" hikes in Sedona

Quick Picks (choose your hike fast)

Best easy hike with huge payoff: Doe Mountain

Best iconic hike: Cathedral Rock

Best famous photo hike: Devil’s Bridge

Best “less crowded” feel: Brins Mesa

Best trail for views without a long day: Bell Rock Pathway

Best for adventurous hikers: Bear Mountain

Local tip: Pick one iconic hike + one easier “views-per-minute” hike. That combo makes Sedona feel epic without wrecking your legs!

Before you hike (2-minute practical checklist)

• Start early (sunrise is your best friend here)

• Bring more water than you think

• Wear shoes with grip (slick rock is… slick)

• Have a Plan B trail in mind if a lot is full

• If you’re hiking in warmer months: hike early, rest midday, sunset stroll later

Hiking Cathedral Rock with my kids is a family favorite

Best Easy Hikes in Sedona (great views, low drama)

1) Bell Rock Pathway (Easy + flexible)

This is one of the best easy hikes in Sedona because you can do a short stroll or turn it into a longer out-and-back.

Difficulty: Easy

Best for: Families, beginners, quick views

Insider move: Go at sunrise for calm vibes and soft light

Why it’s worth it: big red rock views without committing to a big climb.

Bell Rock in Sedona is a great trail for visitors and locals alike. Photo by Shannon Roberts.

2) Doe Mountain (Easy-Moderate, big payoff)

If you want a trail that feels “wow” without being brutal, this is a favorite.

Difficulty: Easy-Moderate

Best for: Big views, shorter hike, couples

Insider move: This is a great “second-day” hike after you do an iconic trail

Why it’s worth it: the top opens up and it feels way bigger than the effort.

3) Fay Canyon (Easy + shaded vibes)

A classic mellow option when you want an easier day.

Difficulty: Easy

Best for: Chill hiking, families, “recovery day”

Insider move: Great midday option when you don’t want full sun exposure

Best Moderate Hikes in Sedona (the sweet spot)

4) Brins Mesa (Moderate, local favorite feel)

This one often feels more “Sedona hike” than “Sedona theme park.”

Difficulty: Moderate

Best for: Fewer crowds (often), gorgeous scenery

Insider move: Ideal if you want something popular-but-not-Devil’s-Bridge popular

Aerial view of Brins Mesa Trail by Shannon Roberts

5) Soldier Pass (Moderate, lots to see)

A classic for variety: scenery, features, and a very “Sedona” feel.

Difficulty: Moderate

Best for: Variety, iconic Sedona landscape

Insider move: Check current access/parking/shuttle rules before you go (they can change)

Seven Sacred Pools at Soldier Pass Trail is one Sedona hike you can't skip!

6) Boynton Canyon (Moderate, scenic + iconic)

Sedona scenery with a bit more breathing room than the most famous trails.

Difficulty: Moderate

Best for: Canyon vibes, scenery, a longer morning hike

Insider move: Start early and bring a snack—this is a solid outing

Best Iconic Hikes in Sedona (worth it, but plan smart)

7) Devil’s Bridge (Moderate, famous photo hike)

If this is on your list, it’s for the photo—and yes, it’s still worth doing if you do it right.

Difficulty: Moderate

Best for: Iconic photo, first-timers

Insider move: Go early. Earlier than you want. Trust me.

Local strategy: If it’s already busy when you arrive, save it for another morning and do an easier nearby hike instead. Take the Sedona Shuttle to avoid crowded parking.

Devil's Bridge in Sedona during the one part of the day when there are no lines

8) Cathedral Rock (Moderate-Hard, short + steep)

One of the best Sedona hikes for views-per-effort… but it’s steep and can feel spicy for some hikers.

Difficulty: Moderate-Hard

Best for: Sunrise/sunset, iconic Sedona views

Insider move: If you hate crowds, do sunrise. If you hate early mornings, do a weekday. Take the Sedona Shuttle.

(Coming Soon: Cathedral Rock Trail Guide)

Best Hard Hikes in Sedona (for strong hikers)

9) Bear Mountain (Hard, big climb energy)

If you want a hike that earns the views, this is a top pick.

Difficulty: Hard

Best for: Fit hikers, “I want a challenge” days

Insider move: Start early and don’t underestimate the sun exposure

10) Wilson Mountain (Hard, long day)

A bigger commitment, but a classic for hikers who want a longer adventure.

Difficulty: Hard

Best for: Longer hike days, strong hikers

Insider move: Pack more water + snacks than you think you’ll need

Wilson Mountain is a strenuous hike but the payoff is amazing! My 11yo daughter took this photo of me!

Best Sedona hikes for sunrise + sunset (timing tips)

Best for sunrise

• Cathedral Rock (iconic sunrise energy)

• Airport Mesa viewpoint + short trail (less effort, great light)

• Any easy trail with open views (if you want calm + flexibility)

Best for sunset

• Viewpoints and short trails (more forgiving if you’re tired)

• Cathedral Rock area can be stunning, but plan for crowds and timing

(Coming Soon: Best Sunrise Spots in Sedona)

Crowd-smart hiking tips

• Do your top hike first thing in the morning.

• Have a backup trail that’s still beautiful (so you don’t waste time).

• Weekdays beat weekends for popular trails.

• Midday = scenic drives, lunch, shopping, spa. Save hiking for early/late.

FAQs

What’s the best hike in Sedona for beginners? Bell Rock Pathway or Fay Canyon are great places to start.

What’s the most famous hike in Sedona? Devil’s Bridge is the most famous photo hike. Cathedral Rock is the iconic steep one.

How many hikes should I plan per day? One “main hike” per morning is perfect. Add an easy sunset stroll if you want more.