7 Easy Hikes in Sedona That Are Scenic and Seriously Stunning

If you’re looking for unforgettable desert scenery without committing to long or difficult treks, these easy hikes in Sedona deliver some of the most breathtaking views in Arizona with minimal effort. From peaceful canyon walks and shady forest trails to iconic red rock formations and reflective creekside viewpoints, Sedona offers a wide variety of landscapes that are accessible to hikers of all skill levels. Whether you want to wander to the tranquil Seven Sacred Pools, stroll beneath towering canyon walls in Fay Canyon, or catch a glowing sunset at Airport Mesa, each trail on this list combines convenience with incredible scenery. Even better, many of these hikes are short enough to mix and match in a single day, making them perfect for a quick getaway or a relaxed itinerary. With the right timing, a little planning for parking, and plenty of water, you can experience the very best of Sedona’s natural beauty. No intense hiking required.

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How to Get Here

The closest airport to Sedona is Flagstaff Pulliam Airport and is located approximately 45 minutes north of Sedona. The next closest airport is Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and is an approximate 2-hour drive to Sedona up Highway 17. Las Vegas’s McCarron International Airport is the next closest major airport and will take you over 4 hours to make this drive. If you are flying into any of these airports, you will need to rent a car for getting to and driving around Sedona.

When to Visit

Spring and Fall months have the most ideal warm weather and blue skies. However, these perfect-weather months are also the times when Sedona is the most busy, and the prices are the highest. I visited Memorial Day weekend and experienced full parking lots at popular hikes by 6:00 am. The summer heat is almost unbearable, so I would not recommend hiking during this time unless you go super early in the morning. Winter months have colder temperatures, especially at night, but they also see the lowest number of crowds.

What to Pack

Listed below are things I highly recommend you pack for your easy hikes in Sedona.

Water!! Whether you use a hydration backpack or carry bottled water, make sure to pack plenty of water when outdoors!
Sunscreen – Protect your skin from the sun, and do not forget to reapply.
Hat – More sun protection to block the sun from your face
Hiking shoes/boots – Some of the hikes are on steep, slick rock, and people wearing regular tennis shoes struggled to keep their footing. Here are the men‘s version of the hiking shoes I love.
Hiking socks – The best way to prevent blisters is by keeping your feet dry. Moisture-wicking socks are the best way to do that.
Microfiber Beach Towel – I packed my microfiber beach towel to take to the swimming holes. I didn’t want to bring the hotel towels, and the microfiber towels fold up to practically nothing.
Water Shoes – The creek bottoms were very slick which made my water shoes a must-have.
Backpack – A backpack is a necessity when hiking to carry your water, snacks, sunscreen, etc. that you may need on your longer hikes.
Printed Maps/Directions – Cell service is spotty when you are not inside Sedona city limits, so I recommend you print maps/directions to all hiking trails, wineries, and swimming holes you plan to visit in your Sedona 3 day itinerary.

Do You Need a Pass for the Easy Hikes in Sedona?

Yes. Most hikes require a Red Rock Pass which can be purchased online or in-person at many gas stations and grocery stores. Because this area is part of the Coconino National Forest, your America the Beautiful U.S. Park Pass is also applicable for most hikes. Just make sure to display the pass on your dash or hang from your rearview mirror. The West Fork Trail entry is not included with your Red Rock Pass or America the Beautiful Pass, so you will need to pay that fee upon arrival.

Easy Hikes in Sedona

This map was created with Wanderlog, the best trip planner app on iOS and Android

1. Seven Sacred Pools via Soldier’s Pass

Trail Length – 1.1 miles
Elevation Gain – 95 feet
Route Type – Out and back

The Seven Sacred Pools via Soldier’s Pass is one of Sedona’s most unique and accessible hikes, leading to a series of natural sandstone basins carved into the red rock. These small pools fill with water after rain, creating a striking contrast against the desert landscape and serving as an important water source for wildlife. The hike itself is short and relatively easy, making it perfect for beginners or anyone wanting a quick but rewarding outing. Along the way, you’ll also pass Devil’s Kitchen, a dramatic sinkhole that adds even more interest to the route.

Parking is the biggest challenge here. The Soldier’s Pass trailhead has a very small lot (around 14–16 cars), and it fills quickly. It’s also often closed to private vehicles Thursday through Sunday, when a free shuttle operates instead. If you can’t get a spot, park at Posse Grounds Park and either take the shuttle or walk about a mile to the trailhead.

Tips: Arrive early (before 8am), avoid weekends if possible, and don’t plan on swimming. The pools are fragile ecosystems.

2. Fay Canyon Trail

Trail Length – 2.1 miles
Elevation Gain – 144 feet
Route Type – Out and back

Fay Canyon Trail is one of the best easy hikes in Sedona, offering a peaceful walk through a wide, shaded canyon framed by towering red rock walls. Unlike many Sedona trails, this one feels calm and secluded, making it ideal for those who want scenic beauty without crowds or steep climbs. The trail is mostly flat and sandy, gradually leading you deeper into the canyon where the views become more dramatic with every step. A short, unmarked spur trail leads to a natural arch high above the canyon floor—well worth the extra effort if you’re comfortable with a bit of scrambling.

Parking is available at the Fay Canyon trailhead along Dry Creek Road, but spaces are limited and fill quickly during peak times. A Red Rock Pass or America the Beautiful pass is required to park.

Tips: Go early or later in the afternoon for shade, bring plenty of water despite the easy terrain, and keep an eye out for the arch trail. It is easy to miss but one of the highlights.

3. Bell Rock Trail

Trail Length – 0.8 miles
Elevation Gain – 200 feet
Route Type – Out and back

Bell Rock Trail is one of Sedona’s most iconic and beginner-friendly hikes, known for its striking bell-shaped formation and wide-open views. The trail system here is flexible. You can keep it easy by walking the base trails or make it more adventurous by scrambling partway up Bell Rock itself. Either way, the scenery is incredible, with panoramic views of Courthouse Butte and the surrounding red rock landscape. This is also a popular sunrise and sunset spot, when the light transforms the rocks into glowing shades of red and orange.

Parking is relatively accessible compared to other easy hike in Sedona, with several lots along Highway 179. However, these fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons and weekends. A Red Rock Pass is required to park.

Tips: Arrive early (sunrise is best for parking and crowds), wear good shoes if you plan to climb, and stay aware of your route. Scrambling can get tricky if you go too far.

4. Cathedral Rock (to the base)

Trail Length – 0.5 miles
Elevation Gain – 216 feet
Route Type – Out and back

The full Cathedral Rock trail to the top of the rock is not one of the easy hikes in Sedona. While it is very short at 1.2 miles, is a very difficult trail. However, the first quarter mile is fairly flat, then the trail starts to elevate with the last 0.2 miles being extremely steep with hands-on rock scrambling. The whole trail would be fun for families, but it is in no way easy. But you can walk to the base of the rock to get stunning pictures of the landform without having to overly exert yourself.

Parking at the Back O’ Beyond trailhead is extremely limited and often restricted. Many visitors must use the Sedona Shuttle or park at designated lots nearby.

Tips: Wear shoes with good grip, avoid hiking after rain (the rock gets slippery), and start early or near sunset for the best experience. Expect crowds—this is one of Sedona’s most popular trails.

5. Red Rock Crossing/Crescent Moon Ranch (entry fee)

Trail Length – 1.9 miles
Elevation Gain – 49 feet
Route Type – Out and back

Crescent Moon Ranch at Red Rock Crossing offers one of the most photographed views in Sedona, with Cathedral Rock perfectly reflected in Oak Creek. This may be the flattest of the easy hikes in Sedona. Unlike many hikes in the area, this experience is more about relaxing scenery than distance or elevation. You can stroll along easy trails, wade in the creek, or simply enjoy a picnic surrounded by stunning red rock views. It’s especially magical in the early morning or after rain, when reflections are at their best.

Parking is available inside Crescent Moon Ranch, but there is an entrance fee or you’ll need a Red Rock Pass. The lot can fill up quickly, especially during peak photo times.

Tips: Bring water shoes if you plan to explore the creek, visit early for fewer crowds, and don’t miss the classic reflection viewpoint just a short walk from the parking area.

6. West Fork Trail

Trail Length – 6.6 miles
Elevation Gain – 574 feet
Route Type – Out and back

West Fork Trail, located in Oak Creek Canyon, is one of Sedona’s most beautiful and unique hikes. Unlike the typical red rock desert landscape, this trail winds through a lush canyon with towering cliffs, dense trees, and multiple creek crossings. In fall, it becomes one of the best places in Arizona to see autumn foliage. The trail is mostly flat, making it accessible, but the repeated creek crossings can make it feel more adventurous. If this hike starts to get too long, you can turn back at any time. It is beautiful the entire trail, but there is no “ta-da” moment at the end that you have to see.

Parking is available at the West Fork trailhead lot, but it fills quickly, especially in fall. The area operates as a day-use site with an entrance fee, and access is limited to daytime hours.

Tips: Wear shoes that can get wet and bring extra socks. There are 13 creek crossings! Also, be sure to arrive early. This is one of Sedona’s most popular hikes. Check conditions in winter, as water levels can be higher.

7. Airport View Trail

Trail Length – 1.4 miles
Elevation Gain – 216 feet
Route Type – Out and back

Airport View Trail offers some of the best panoramic views and is the best sunset view of all the easy hikes in Sedona. From this elevated vantage point, you’ll get sweeping 360-degree views of Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and the surrounding red rock formations. The trail itself is relatively short and moderately easy, making it a great option for those who want maximum views with minimal effort. It’s also a well-known vortex site, attracting visitors interested in Sedona’s spiritual side.

Parking is limited at the Airport Mesa overlook and along the road, and there is typically a fee to park. Spots fill up quickly, especially at sunset.

Tips: Visit at sunset for incredible lighting, bring a camera, and be prepared for wind. It can be stronger at higher elevation. Arrive early to secure parking.