“Sedona’s Best Hikes in 2025: Your Ultimate Trail Guide”

Sedona, Arizona continues to draw hikers from around the world with its fiery red rock vistas, hidden canyons, and breathtaking sunrise and sunset glow. Whether you’re after easy walks, photogenic viewpoints, vortex energy, caves, or more strenuous treks, 2025 offers an excellent range of adventures. Here are some of the top hikes you should plan into your Sedona visit this year.

Before you head out, keep these essentials in mind to make your Sedona hiking experience safe and memorable:

• Many trailheads require a Red Rock Pass or equivalent permit — check ahead.
   
• Start early, especially in spring and fall. Summers are very hot, trails are exposed, and midday sun can be dangerous.
   
• Bring plenty of water, sun protection, and sturdy footwear. Some trails involve scrambling on slick rock.
   
• Parking fills up fast at popular trailheads. Arrive early or use the Sedona Shuttle when available.
   
• Be aware of seasonal conditions like monsoon storms in midsummer or icy patches in winter.
   

Want to skip the planning, parking stress, and trail confusion? Book a Guided Hike with The Best of Sedona 

Birthing Cave (Long Canyon & Subway Cave detour)
A short but rewarding hike with a dramatic cave opening and panoramic red rock views. Best at sunrise for fewer crowds and magical light.

Fay Canyon Trail
An easy 2-mile round trip through a shaded canyon. Perfect for families, with an optional side path to a natural arch.

Bell Rock & Courthouse Butte Loop
One of Sedona’s most iconic areas. Famous for its energy vortex and beautiful sunrise and sunset views.

Cathedral Rock
A short but steep 1.2-mile scramble to breathtaking vistas. Ideal at sunset, but wear good shoes for grip.

Devil’s Bridge
The most photographed sandstone arch in Sedona. Go at sunrise for fewer crowds and stunning photo opportunities.

Boynton Canyon & the “Subway” Cave
A moderate to challenging 6–7 mile trek with towering canyon walls and a rewarding cave detour.

Soldier’s Pass (Seven Sacred Pools & Devil’s Kitchen)
A trail with it all — seasonal pools, a massive sinkhole, and scenic red rock views.

Sugarloaf Summit & Teacup Loop
Moderate trail with sweeping views of Sedona’s formations. A quieter option than the big-name hikes.

Doe Mountain
A short but steep climb to a mesa top offering 360-degree views. A hidden gem for photographers.

Munds Wagon Trail to Merry Go Round Rock
A historic trail with one of Sedona’s best sunset overlooks. Bring a headlamp if you stay for golden hour.

Book a Guided Hike with The Best of Sedona 

If you’ve already explored the iconic trails, dive deeper into Sedona’s hidden treasures. The Munds Mountain Wilderness offers solitude on Hot Loop and Jack’s Canyon. Side paths near Boynton Canyon or Soldier’s Pass reveal smaller caves and secret overlooks. In summer, late-afternoon canyon hikes provide cooler air and magical shade.

Book a Guided Hike with The Best of Sedona 

Spring (March–May) and Fall (September–November) are the most popular, with mild temperatures, wildflowers, and incredible skies. Summer is hot, but early mornings and evenings can be unforgettable. Winter (December–February) is quieter and sometimes dusts the red rocks with snow, creating a magical scene.

• First-time visitors (2–3 days): Fay Canyon, Bell Rock, Cathedral Rock, and Devil’s Bridge.
   
• Adventure seekers: Boynton Canyon, Munds Wagon to Merry Go Round Rock, and Sugarloaf Summit.
   
• Families and casual hikers: Birthing Cave, Yavapai Vista Loop, Airport Mesa, and Fay Canyon.
   

Book a Guided Hike with The Best of Sedona 

Sedona is constantly evolving — with new shuttle services, updated trail maintenance, and seasonal variations — so always check local resources before your hike. Even exploring just a few of these trails will show you why Sedona’s hiking is world-renowned: breathtaking views, hidden caves, vortex energy, and the desert’s quiet magic.

Book a Guided Hike with The Best of Sedona