November 4, 2025

5 Best Beginner Hikes in Sedona

My Top 5 Picks: The Best Beginner-Friendly Hikes in Sedona

By Cap Puckhaber, Reno, Nevada

Hey there, I’m Cap Puckhaber. By day, I’m a marketing professional, but my real passions are being an amateur investor, part-time blogger, and, most importantly, an outdoor enthusiast. Today, I want to get personal and share my top 5 picks for beginner-friendly hiking trails in Sedona, Arizona.

Sedona is, without a doubt, a breathtaking destination. It’s world-famous for its stunning red rock formations, which get their color from a process called iron oxidation. Consequently, this beautiful desert oasis offers a massive array of hiking opportunities. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a simple, easy hike in Sedona, you’ll find a trail for your skill level. In my opinion, hiking in Sedona is an absolutely essential experience for any nature lover. Therefore, in this post, we’re going to cover my favorite hikes, moving from scenic strolls to slightly more challenging treks. I’ll be sure to highlight all the key details you need, like trail length, difficulty, and the all-important parking situation.

My Top 5 Beginner-Friendly Hikes in Sedona

1. The Iconic Cathedral Rock Trail

First on my list is perhaps the most iconic landmark in the area: the Cathedral Rock Trail. You’ve almost certainly seen its towering spires in photographs. This trail takes you right up into one of Sedona’s most recognized formations. The hike itself is fairly short, at only 1.5 miles round trip. However, you should know this trail is rated moderate-to-strenuous. This rating is because the trail is steep and challenging. You will ascend rocky terrain and will absolutely need to use your hands at times to climb. For this reason, it’s not a good fit for dogs. But the reward at the summit is completely worth the effort. You get incredible panoramic views of the surrounding red rocks, including the famous Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte. You can find parking at the Cathedral Rock Trailhead, which is managed by the Coconino National Forest, but I strongly recommend arriving early as it fills up incredibly fast.

2. The Relaxing Bell Rock Pathway

Next, if you’re specifically looking for genuinely easy hikes, the Bell Rock Pathway is an excellent option. This is a relatively flat and wonderfully scenic trail that provides stunning views of Bell Rock from its base. At 3.5 miles out and back, it’s a perfect hike for beginners or for those days when you just want a relaxing walk in the desert. Along this pathway, you’ll pass through a beautiful variety of landscapes, from lush desert vegetation to wide-open vistas. What’s more, this trail is dog-friendly, so you can absolutely bring your furry friend along for the adventure. The Bell Rock Pathway is very accessible from its dedicated parking lot, which thankfully offers ample space. Because of its gentle incline and easy surface, I find it’s perfect for families or anyone who just wants to soak in the natural beauty of Sedona.

3. The Famous Devil’s Bridge Trail

For a perfect combination of a moderate challenge and a truly rewarding view, you can’t beat the Devil’s Bridge Trail. This hike leads to the famous Devil’s Bridge, which is the largest natural sandstone arch in the Sedona area. It’s an iconic photo-op that you’ve likely seen all over social media. The trail is 4.2 miles round trip. It starts off relatively flat and easy, but I must warn you that the final stretch becomes more strenuous. You will need to navigate rocky terrain and make a short, steep ascent to reach the arch itself. Additionally, this is another dog-friendly trail, making it a great choice for pet owners. Parking is available at the Devil’s Bridge Trailhead, though this is another lot that fills up extremely quickly. You should definitely consider arriving very early or trying your luck in the late afternoon to find a spot.

4. The Shady Oak Creek Canyon Trail

Now, if you’re looking for a peaceful, scenic walk with a different kind of view, the Oak Creek Canyon Trail is one of my favorite easier hikes. This 1.5-mile trail takes you along the West Fork of Oak Creek. It is famous for its lush vegetation, tranquil waters, and abundant wildlife. Because it’s down in the canyon and near the water, it’s an excellent trail for escaping the desert heat in the cooler shade. Honestly, it’s the perfect choice for those looking to just enjoy the peaceful sounds of nature. This trail is great for beginners and is also dog-friendly, so the whole family can enjoy it. The trailhead is located at the West Fork Trailhead, which usually has plenty of parking available. I highly recommend this hike if you want to explore the beautiful, diverse landscape of Sedona beyond just the red rocks.

5. The Rewarding Doe Mountain Trail

Finally, another fantastic option for those seeking easy hikes is the Doe Mountain Trail. This one offers a relatively short but incredibly scenic 1.5-mile hike. The trail switchbacks gently to the top of Doe Mountain, which is a large, flat-topped mesa. Once you’re up there, you’ll be rewarded with amazing panoramic views of the surrounding desert and many of the famous red rock formations. The trail is not too strenuous, making it an excellent choice for families or anyone who wants an elevated view of the area without a grueling climb. Furthermore, this trail is dog-friendly, so your pup can join you for the vista. Parking is available at the Doe Mountain Trailhead, but just like many of Sedona’s popular trails, it can fill up quickly. I suggest you be sure to arrive early to grab a spot.

My Final Thoughts on Hiking in Sedona

In the end, Sedona, Arizona, offers some of the most scenic and varied hiking trails in the entire country. Whether you’re looking for that easy, family-friendly hike or a more challenging adventure, this area truly has something for everyone. From iconic landmarks like Cathedral Rock to the serene, shaded paths of Oak Creek Canyon, the beauty of Sedona is just waiting for you to explore.

When you start planning your own Sedona adventure, please take my advice and arrive early to secure parking, especially for the popular trails. Before you go, it’s always a good idea to review basic preparedness. The American Hiking Society has a great guide on safety and the “ten essentials” you should always consider. For more planning resources, the official Visit Sedona tourism site is also incredibly helpful. Above all, take your time, respect the trails, and have an amazing time.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sedona Hiking

What is the best time of year to hike in Sedona?

A lot of people ask me about the best time to visit. In my personal experience, the spring and fall months are absolutely ideal for hiking. Specifically, March through May and September through November offer the best weather. During these seasons, you get pleasant daytime temperatures perfect for being on the trail. The summer, conversely, can be extremely hot, often soaring above 100°F. Therefore, if you must hike in the summer, I strongly advise you to start at sunrise and finish before the midday heat. Winter is also a beautiful, less-crowded time. However, you should prepare for colder temperatures and the possibility of ice or snow on trails at higher elevations.

Do I really need a Red Rock Pass?

This is a crucial question. Yes, for many trailheads, you will need to purchase a pass. The Coconino National Forest manages most of this land. They require a Red Rock Pass for parking at many of the most popular trailheads, including several I listed. You can typically buy a daily, weekly, or annual pass at automated kiosks right at the trailheads or at local visitor centers in town. In fact, this program directly funds the maintenance and preservation of these beautiful trails. Consequently, I always make sure my pass is current and displayed before I even leave the car.

What should I bring on a beginner hike in Sedona?

Even for an easy hike, you must never underestimate the desert environment. Above all else, you must bring more water than you think you will need. Dehydration is a serious and rapid risk here. I personally carry at least two liters, even for a short trail. Besides water, you should always wear sturdy hiking shoes or boots with good grip. The sandstone, which locals call ‘slickrock,’ can be slippery, especially with loose gravel. Also, sun protection is completely non-negotiable. This means you need a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen. Finally, a small first-aid kit and a map (or a fully charged phone with a downloaded map) are essentials. The National Park Service offers a great checklist of these “ten essentials” that I always review.

Our main Arizona hiking guide

See more top hikes in America

About the author

Cap Puckhaber is a marketing strategist, finance writer, and outdoor enthusiast. He writes across CapPuckhaber.com, TheHikingAdventures.com, SimpleFinanceBlog.com, and BlackDiamondMarketingSolutions.com. Follow him for honest, real-world advice backed by 20+ years of experience.