We know that many people like hiking, so in this article, we are going to cover the best easy hikes in Sedona. Trails like Devil’s Bridge or Bear Mountain aren’t for everyone. Sedona’s easy Hikes offer jaw-dropping vistas without the grueling climbs, whether you’re a family with toddlers, a first-time hiker, or a senior looking for gentle terrain.
This guide includes:
- 10 easy hikes in Sedona with local secrets (think hidden caves and sunset viewpoints).
- Free, kid-approved activities to pair with your hikes.
- Why Sedona weather in October is ideal for outdoor adventures.
- A printable map of Sedona with trailheads, restrooms, and parking hacks.
- Seasonal tips for avoiding crowds and spotting wildflowers.
- These underrated trails even locals forget about!
Easy Hikes Sedona: Trail-by-Trail Breakdown
1. Bell Rock Pathway: Sedona’s Most Accessible Adventure
Distance: 1.2 miles (loop) | Elevation Gain: 112 ft | Difficulty: Easy
Why You’ll Love It:
This smooth, flat path is perfect for strollers, wheelchairs, or beginners. The trail circles the base of Bell Rock, a towering crimson formation known for its spiritual vortex energy. Many hikers report feeling a “tingling” sensation here—whether it’s the vortex or the awe-inspiring views is up to you!
Local Tips:
- Sunrise Magic: Arrive 30 minutes before dawn to watch the first light paint the rocks gold.
- Parking Hack: Skip the crowded main lot and park at Courthouse Vista Trailhead (free with a Red Rock Pass).
Family-Friendly Perks:
- Kids love spotting desert lizards and prickly pear blooms (April–June).
- Bring a magnifying glass to examine tiny animal tracks in the sand.
Best Time to Visit: October mornings (60–75°F) or weekday afternoons to avoid crowds.
2. Fay Canyon Trail: A Hidden Oasis
Distance: 2.4 miles (out & back) | Elevation Gain: 200 ft | Difficulty: Easy
Why You’ll Love It:
This shaded trail winds through juniper trees and leads to a hidden arch and secret cave (ask locals for directions!). It’s a peaceful escape from Sedona’s busier paths, with opportunities to spot Abert’s squirrels and Gambel’s quail.
Local Tips:
- Picnic Paradise: Pack lunch and stop at the creek halfway through the hike.
- October Bonus: The canyon’s maple trees turn fiery red, contrasting with the sandstone.
Photography Tip: The arch frames Cathedral Rock perfectly at golden hour.
3. Red Rock Crossing (Crescent Moon Picnic Area)
Distance: 2 miles (loop) | Elevation Gain: Minimal | Difficulty: Easy
Why You’ll Love It:
This tranquil trail follows Oak Creek, offering postcard views of Cathedral Rock reflected in the water. It’s ideal for families and photographers—bring a tripod for long-exposure shots of the creek!
Local Tips:
- Free Parking: Bike from the Sedona Bike Park to avoid the $12 entry fee.
- Swimming Spot: In summer, kids can splash in shallow pools (water shoes recommended).
Seasonal Alert: The creek may flood after monsoon rains (July–September).
4. Airport Mesa Loop: Sunset Perfection
Distance: 1.1 miles (loop) | Elevation Gain: 140 ft | Difficulty: Easy
Why You’ll Love It:
This short loop offers 360-degree views of Sedona’s red rocks and is the best spot for sunset. Locals call it “Table Top Mountain” for its flat, mesa-like summit.
Local Tips:
- Parking Struggle: Arrive 1 hour before sunset—or park at Sedona Airport Overlook and walk 10 minutes.
- Vortex Vibes: The mesa is another energy hotspot—meditate near the rocky outcrops.
Pro Tip: Pair this hike with a post-sunset dinner at Mesa Grill, located at the airport.
5. Little Horse Trail: Cathedral Rock’s Quieter Sibling
Distance: 3.2 miles (out & back) | Elevation Gain: 300 ft | Difficulty: Easy/Moderate
Why You’ll Love It:
This trail delivers Cathedral Rock-level views with 90% fewer crowds. The path winds through juniper forests and ends at Chicken Point, a cliffside overlook popular with jeep tours.
Local Tips:
- Jeep Tour Shortcut: Hike to Chicken Point and hitch a (free) ride back with a Pink Jeep Tour group (tip your driver!).
- Full Moon Hike: The trail is safe and surreal under moonlight.
more easy hikes in Sedona like Devil’s Bridge (Lower Trailhead), Margs Draw, Schnebly Hill Vista, Courthouse Butte Loop, and more
Free Things to Do in Sedona with Kids (Beyond Hiking)
1. Red Rock Crossing Photo Safari
Activity: Turn your hike into a scavenger hunt! Challenge kids to find:
- The “perfect postcard shot” of Cathedral Rock reflecting in Oak Creek.
- Animal tracks (look for raccoon, deer, or javelina prints).
- Desert wildflowers like scarlet penstemon (spring) or golden poppies (fall).
Educational Twist: Download the free iNaturalist app to identify plants and wildlife.
Pro Tip: Visit at sunset for warm, golden reflections—ideal for family photos.
Google play for android, App store for Apple.
2. Tlaquepaque Arts Village Scavenger Hunt
Free Printable Guide: Search for:
- The hidden bronze turtle near the fountain.
- Colorful mosaics on the courtyard walls.
- The “kissing donkeys” sculpture in a tucked-away garden.
Local Secret: Free live music on weekends at the courtyard stage (11 AM–1 PM).
Seasonal Bonus: Visit in December for festive lights and carolers!
3. Sedona Heritage Museum’s Junior Ranger Program
Activity: Kids earn a free badge by completing a scavenger hunt about Sedona’s cowboy history.
Hours: Free admission on the first Friday of every month.
Nearby: Pair with a picnic at Posse Grounds Park (free playground and shaded tables).
more free activities, like stargazing at Jordan Road, fossil hunting at Broken Arrow Trail, or DIY vortex tours
Sedona Day Trip Itinerary: Hikes, Eats & Sights in 12 Hours
7:00 AM: Sunrise at Cathedral Rock Trail (Lower Portion)
- Snap photos of the rocks glowing pink at dawn.
9:00 AM: Breakfast at Local Juicery
- Must-try: Prickly pear smoothie or vegan breakfast burrito.
11:00 AM: Hike Bell Rock Pathway
- Let kids scramble on the lower rocks while you relax with canyon views.
1:00 PM: Picnic at Grasshopper Point
- Free entry if you arrive via the Sedona Shuttle.
- Swim in Oak Creek’s cool pools (summer only).
3:00 PM: Explore the Chapel of the Holy Cross
- Free entry; $5 parking. Light a candle in the cliffside chapel.
5:00 PM: Sunset at Airport Mesa Loop
- Arrive early to claim a seat on the rocks.
7:00 PM: Stargaze at Crescent Moon Picnic Area
- Bring blankets and spot constellations like Orion’s Belt.
9:00 PM: Dessert at Black Cow Café
- Indulge in prickly pear gelato or homemade apple pie.
Sedona Weather in October: Your Packing Checklist
Temperature Range: 45°F (mornings) to 80°F (afternoons)
What to Pack:
- Layers: Moisture-wicking shirt, light fleece, windbreaker.
- Footwear: Hiking shoes with grip (rocks get slippery!).
- Sun Protection: Wide-brim hat, SPF 50, UV-blocking sunglasses.
- Hydration: Reusable bottle (refill at Visitor Center).
Pro Tip: October marks the end of monsoon season. Pack a lightweight rain jacket for afternoon showers.
Navigating Sedona: Maps, Parking & Etiquette
Printable Map:
Download our custom Sedona trail map featuring:
- Free parking zones near popular trailheads.
- Restroom locations (spoiler: they’re scarce—plan ahead!).
- Sunrise/sunset viewpoints with photographer notes.
Parking Hacks:
- Sedona Shuttle: Free service to Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and Airport Mesa (runs 7 AM–6 PM).
- Bike Rentals: $25/day at Sedona Bike & Bean—ditch the car and pedal to trails.
- Early Bird Rule: Arrive by 7:30 AM to secure parking at Devil’s Bridge.
Trail Etiquette:
- Leave No Trace: Pack out all trash (even banana peels—they harm wildlife!).
- Yield Rules: Uphill hikers have right-of-way.
- Quiet Hours: Keep voices low—sound carries in the canyons!
Local Secrets: Underrated Trails & Hidden Lookouts
1. Birthing Cave
Distance: 2 miles (out & back) | Elevation Gain: 300 ft
- A short, easy hike to a sacred sandstone cavern shaped like a womb. Locals believe it radiates healing energy.
How to Find It: Look for a small, unmarked trail off Long Canyon Road.
2. Margs Draw Trail
Distance: 3.8 miles (loop) | Elevation Gain: 250 ft
- This serene trail offers panoramic views of Snoopy Rock (yes, it looks like the cartoon dog!).
Local Tip: Visit at sunrise for soft light and zero crowds.
3. Secret Slickrock Vista
Location: Off Dry Creek Road
- A hidden viewpoint overlooking Boynton Canyon. Perfect for sunset picnics!
Access: 4WD required—ask a Pink Jeep Tour guide for directions.
FAQs: Answering Your Sedona Hike Questions
1. “Are dogs allowed on Sedona trails?”
Yes! But keep them leashed (coyotes and snakes are common).
2. “Can I hike in sneakers?”
For easy trails like Bell Rock, yes. For rocky paths, wear hiking shoes.
3. “Where can I refill water?”
Free stations at the Visitor Center and Trailhead Coffee.
4. “Is Sedona safe for solo female travelers?”
Yes—stick to well-marked trails and avoid hiking after dark.
Conclusion: Your Sedona Adventure Starts Here
With this guide, you’re ready to conquer easy hikes in Sedona, entertain kids for free, and snap photos that’ll wow your Instagram feed while dodging crowds. Don’t forget your map of Sedona, layers for October’s moody weather, and a sense of adventure!
