Hiking Hotspot: Bell Rock Pathway in Sedona
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Bell Rock is one of Sedona’s most popular hiking trails. It’s not my personal favorite, but there are some nice views and it is a known energy hotspot. Along with enjoying towering red rock formations, you will also get to explore one of the 4 major vortex sites. Vortexes are areas of enhanced natural earth energy. There are a lot of these throughout Sedona – more on this later.
These 2 combining factors make it one of the go-to trails for new tourists. I love the jaw dropping viewpoints of Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte along the route, although most of the big views are near the beginning of the trail. Although the trail is pretty easy (mostly flat), it is very long (about 7 miles total), and therefore, quite an exhausting endeavor, especially on hot, sunny days.
I recommend this hike for fitness buffs who want to get in a long hike, run, or bike ride as the terrain is very flat. Beginning mountain bikers love this trail and it times it can get pretty crowded with cyclists. Even though the terrain is easier than other options in town, you will definitely be more exhausted due to the extended amount of time you will be out in the sunny, dry desert. Definitely bring with plenty of water and a few salty snacks and plan about 3 hours to complete the entire journey if walking. I recommend saving this one for the winter season as there is little shade. Check out my guide to summer hikes if your visit falls during this time.
One of 4 vortex hikes
Perhaps most interestingly, this hike is one of 4 vortex trails in Sedona. The other vortex hikes include: Airport Mesa (a stunning hike with scary drop offs), Boynton Canyon (a beautiful trail through many ecosystems), and Cathedral Rock. Since living in the area, we learned that a vortex is an area of intense energy that rises up naturally from the earth. Many people have claimed to feel a certain spiritual energy when standing in one of these energy hotspots.
Vortexes strengthen either the masculine or feminine side, or provide a balance of both energies. Feminine sites reportedly enhance the feeling of calmness, while masculine sites will likely make you feel more energized. New Age enthusiasts travel from around the world to absorb these special energies. Some report a feeling of peace or even healing of ailments when they hike in these areas. Because Bell Rock contains a combo of both masculine and feminine energies, one reportedly can achieve a yin/yang balance.
On an interesting side note, this area is known to be a hotspot for paranormal activity and UFO sightings. To date, dozens of UFOs have been sighted. A few companies even offer special UFO tours! Even more interesting, Sedona itself is one of the top places in the country for UFO sightings! This is not all that weird to me, considering that the region in general feels like an otherworldly place where basically anything can happen.
I recommend reading up more about the benefit of vortex sites before planning your trip. Or you can opt to take a tour.
The meaning of Juniper trees
The presence of a twisted juniper tree means a site of super strong energy so take notice. While the entire hike possesses vortex energy, the energy concentrates around these unique trees. Many people claim to feel stronger spiritual energy when standing around these trees.
Here’s a look at a few of the juniper trees we saw during our hike. As you can see, the first tree is really twisted which means greater energy. Since living in nearby Flagstaff, I have really enjoyed learning about the spiritual significance of the area. It’s definitely not your run-of-the-mill hiking destination, that’s for sure!
A Place of Spiritual Healing
The city is now regarded as a leader in spiritual healing, and thus, the New Age community has grown. Visitors from around the world come to take in the energy of the vortex sites, hike, relax at spas, meditate, balance their chakras, and engage in a host of holistic healing therapies. If you are into alternative medicine, you will likely love it here.
Whether or not vortex sites are real or were created to draw extra tourists, there red rock views are enchanting. As you hike, you will definitely feel a strong connection with nature; this comes from being surrounded by such majestic scenery and the absence of any commercialization. Perhaps, that is the real benefit of hiking in Sedona :-).
Sadly, more and more businesses are being built up around town and someday the area may lose it’s magical touch. I’m so fortunate to have lived in the area before tourism exploded.
The scenic & steep climb up Bell Rock: A detour hike for fitness buffs
You will see the climb sign after a mile or so of easy walking along the Pathway. The climb is a detour trail which is much more difficult. This trail is about 0.7 miles long, although it is very steep and quite dangerous (more hikers fall on this trail than any other in Sedona). You can hike up to your comfort level – views are fantastic every step of the way. Fortunately, you do not need to go all the way up to enjoy the mesmerizing scenery.
The first portion of this trail is easy, although it gets much steeper and harder the higher up you go. Prepare to use your hands and feet to climb rocks and have others give you a push up the higher rocks. Expect scary drops and loose rocks along the way. I recommend skipping this one 100% if you are at all scared of heights. Simply snap a few photos and continue on the Pathway trail.
Although you will see many people climbing up without a second thought, the choice is up to whether or not you want to take the risk. You can enjoy a great panoramic overview (like the one below) by just climbing up a little bit. You will still get in a great workout and get to enjoy lots of great red rock scenery.
Overall, I recommend this trail most to fitness enthusiasts and anyone looking to dive deep into the spiritual energy. This hike is far from the most scenic in the area (in my opinion, Boynton Canyon, Devil’s Bridge, and Little Horse are far prettier choices for new visitors), however, it’s a great choice for anyone seeking a relatively easy, long workout without much elevation gain. Basically, a great choice for trail runners and mountain bikers.
At the start of the hike it will be pretty congested, especially if you visit on a weekend. However, once you pass the Bell Rock climb area (where many hikers will either stop and turn around, continue on to the Courthouse Butte trail, or spend their time climbing up the rocks), it becomes a peaceful, very desolate journey into nature. The nice thing about the Pathway trail is that the views are completely different in either direction, so you get a new view on the way back.
Tips for a fantastic hike
*There is not much shade on this trail. Bring plenty of water. Hydrate yourself frequently. Eat salty snacks to balance electrolytes. I also recommend breakfast before you get out on such a longer trail (check out my favorite local picks).
*Plan your hike outside of the summer season. Fall and winter are great times to enjoy this hike due to the lack of crowds and cooler temperatures.
*Wear a hat and apply plenty of sunscreen.
*Give yourself at least 3 hours to complete the entire trail.
*Mountain biking and long distance running are great alternatives to hiking due to the easy terrain.
*Watch the signage carefully and follow the cairns (basically a stack of rocks). There are many other trails that connect and you want to follow your intended trail. Know that the climb is a different hike, so adding this into your journey will be another 1.5 miles.
*If you want a more scenic hike (and more difficult), connect to the Courthouse Butte trail instead of continuing on the Bell Rock Pathway. Just follow the trails signs. Courthouse is about 5 miles roundtrip.
*Arrive early especially on weekends. After 10am, parking is hard to come across. Morning also offers the benefit of cooler temps!
Directions
At the junction of 89A and SR 179, take SR 179 south for 6 miles until you see a trailhead parking lot on the left.
You must purchase a Red Rock pass or display your Annual National Parks “America the Beautiful” pass. A daily Red Rock pass is $5, or you can purchase an annual pass for $20. A better option is to purchase an Annual National Park pass, which gains you entry into all Red Rock Country hiking areas as well as all national parks and monuments for the year. I have this pass and it is a great value especially if you plan on visiting the Grand Canyon and other western national parks.
