6 Easy Sedona Hikes with Fabulous Red Rock Views
Sedona, Arizona is a natural wonderland – an amazing vacation destination for the hiker and nature lover. Hundreds of miles of trails give even the most avid hiker an endless supply of options. There is no ugly trail in Sedona – any hike will take you on a visually spectacular journey through the gorgeous 200+ million year old colorful red rock formations which dominate the landscape. These stunning formations have given Sedona the nickname “Red Rock Country.” While Sedona was once a sleepy & little-known “one stoplight town”, it has now become one of the most popular destinations in the Southwest.
The secret is out and more and more people are flocking to one of the most beautiful destinations in the country. With endless hikes, a gorgeous perennial creek, and stunning natural vistas in every direction, every nature lover must plan a trip here. There is a trail for just about everyone, although sometimes simply taking it easy and enjoying the grand views via a relaxing hike is the best decision of all. I have rounded up my list of the most picturesque easy hikes, limiting the list to those hikes devoid of major elevation gain, scary steep drops, or insanely long distances.
Featured below are 6 easy & picturesque hikes to enjoy during your time in Sedona.
1. The Teacup/Sugarloaf Summit
The combined Teacup/Sugarloaf Summit Trail offers incredible vistas of the Sedona area, and the best part of all, is that these grand views are accessible via minimal effort. While many of the most scenic Sedona hikes require quite a lengthy drive and/or a strenuous climb, the Teacup Trail is a relatively easy trail located just 5 minutes or so outside of town. You will start with a relaxing nature stroll along the Teacup Trail before climbing 0.3 miles up Sugarloaf Summit. The entire combined loop trail is just under 2 miles in total and can be completed in just an hour and a half or so.
After completing the short climb up to the summit, you will not be able to take your eyes off the magnificent 360 degree red rock views. Soaking in the fantastic red rock scenery in such a quiet setting truly is an awe-inspiring experience. The majority of the time, there is absolutely no one around so you can enjoy the bird’s eye scenery all to yourself. Really, it is crazy how so little fitness ability is required in exchange for such world-class views! This hike rarely sees crowds like the more popular touristy options such as Devil’s Bridge. This is unbelievable considering the easy access, short distance, and out-of-this-world scenery! For an easy short hike with minimal effort and big views, you cannot get much better than the Teacup/Sugarloaf trail.
Distance: 1.9 mile loop
Location: Buena Vista Dr
More info on the Teacup/Sugarloaf trail
2. Templeton
The Templeton Trail really is a unique Sedona treasure, however, it is often overlooked in favor of nearby Cathedral Rock. Cathedral Rock is extremely popular with tourists as it is one of 4 vortex sites. Vortexes are basically areas of natural healing energies. At the first fork in the trail, you will have the option of continuing on with the crowds to Cathedral, or opting for a quieter, more scenic and relaxing journey along the Templeton trail.
The Templeton is an easy 1 mile out-and-back nature walk. On this trail, you can enjoy grand views of Cathedral rather than embarking on the dangerous rocky climb up Cathedral itself. Plus, the ending creek views are so relaxing, not to mention a refreshing way to cool down your feet on a hot summer day. This trail offers so much greenery in comparison to others, which in turn makes it a great summer escape from the overbearing sunshine of the desert. Overall, the Templeton is one of the most relaxing trails in Sedona. You’ll get in a refreshing workout without completely beating yourself up, all the while enjoying diverse views of colorful red rocks, peaceful flowing creek, and exotic desert plant life.
Distance: 1 mile out-and-back
Location: Back O’ Beyond Road
More info on the Templeton trail
3. Fay Canyon
Fay Canyon is a short & spectacular hike located about 30 minutes outside of town near the Enchantment Resort, so it’s quite a drive if you are not staying out this way. However, this beautiful hike is well worth the effort for the fabulous red rock views and quiet wilderness-like setting. This hike is one of the few that is doable during the summer season due to the dense tree coverage and short distance. Wildlife is frequently reported during the early morning hours, with black bears known to inhabit the area. Barely anyone apart from regular locals use this trail so it never feels overcrowded.
Fay Canyon is one of Sedona’s easiest trails, and thus, hikers of all abilities will be able to enjoy this one. The hike combined with the scenic drive over, and perhaps breakfast at the beautiful Che-Ah-Chi restaurant at the Enchantment Resort, makes for a perfect little day out in Sedona.
Distance: 1.3 miles out-and-back
Location: Boynton Canyon Road
More info on the Fay Canyon trail
4. Wilson Canyon
Wilson Canyon is the perfect hike for anyone looking to take it easy, enjoy a quick summer hike in the shade, and/or enjoy a peaceful nature walk sans the crowds. Because it is one of Sedona’s shortest and shadiest trails, it’s one of the best picks on a hot summer day in the desert. There are lots of leafy trees along the way and even a hint of colorful foliage come fall. While there are not as many dramatic red rock views to enjoy on this one, the solitude and lush forest setting really set it apart from the rest.
Wilson Canyon is one of several trails which begin at Midgley Bridge, a very popular scenic overlook on Oak Creek Canyon drive. You will have to arrive early in the morning before the parking lot is completely full to enjoy this one, however, the serene setting more than makes up for the minor inconvenience of setting your alarm clock! To motivate yourself a bit more, stop for an early brunch and espresso on the beautiful patio of Indian Gardens, Northern Arizona’s best option for breakfast!
Distance: 1.3 miles out-and-back
Location: At the junction of 89A and 179, drive 1.9 miles north on 89A until reaching the parking lot near Midgley Bridge.
More info on the Wilson Canyon trail
5. Marg’s Draw
Marg’s Draw is another simple, yet picturesque trail which is conveniently close to town. This one features gorgeous views of the red rocks, yet is never overly crowded, as it is frequented more by locals rather than tourists. The short distance & easy terrain, combined with few crowds and easy access, make Marg’s Draw an easy pick for any Sedona visitor.
Not much shade to be found here, although lots of interesting desert plant life can be explored along the route, including many vibrant, healthy green prickly pear cacti. This trail features a fantastic view of the Snoopy rock formation. On an interesting side note, each Sedona red rock is named after the shape it resembles. It becomes a fun game to guess the rock formation on each hike!
Distance: 1.3 miles out-and-back
Location: Sombart Lane Sedona, AZ
More info on the Marg’s Draw trail
6. West Fork
The West Fork trail is located along Oak Creek Canyon drive. There is no way you can miss this one as it is the most popular trail in the Coconino NF. So popular in fact that during the spectacular fall season there is often a lengthy line just to park. The reason for the trail’s immense popularity arises from the gorgeous natural surroundings which includes peaceful flowing creeks, red rock views, and dense deciduous tree coverage. Like Wilson & Fay Canyon, the West Fork is another optimal summer hike. On those sunny 90+ degree days, the shady forest setting really does make all the difference.
I love this trail because it reminds me more of the beautiful leafy trails found throughout New England. In fact, you may forget at times that you are in the desert! There are 13 fun & diverse creek crossings to explore, all a bit challenging and fun. This trail is a bit longish at 3.5 miles each way, although you can go out as far as you like and simply turn around. The trail is flat with no steep sections, so perfect for any beginners. During the winter season, the red rocks & trees surrounding the creek are often dusted with snow, creating the most magical setting. Note – portions of the trail may close after a heavy storm.
Distance: 3.5 miles out-and-back
Location: State Rte 89A Mile Marker 384
More info on the West Fork trail
Notes
Dogs are allowed, but must be leashed.
A Red Rock Daily or Weekly Pass is required to park. The one day pass is $5, while a week pass is $15, and thus, obviously a better value if you are planning a longer stay.
The summer months can get brutally hot. It’s best to hike any other time of the year. If you do hike, carry plenty of water, a few snacks, keep it short, and most importantly, get out there early!
Many trailheads do not have restrooms. It’s best to go before you set off. Check the Coconino National
Forest website for individual trailhead amenities.
It’s important to refuel before and after any intense hike in the desert. Always hydrate property and eat a good meal afterwards. Check out my top recommended restaurants in Sedona.
