3 Of The Best Hikes In Sedona Arizona You Don't Want To Miss

1. Cathedral Rock Hike

Cathedral Rock is a short 1.2-mile roundtrip hike with epic views all the way to the top. If you are on a time crunch and looking for a short yet rewarding hike, look no further. With the abundance of hikes in Sedona, it can be quite overwhelming to find the best trail, but if I had to recommend one hike that shouldn’t be missed, then this would be the one. I am not sure if we were just really lucky, but the sunset at the top of Cathedral Rock was out of this world. The moon was rising to the east and the sun was setting to the west, all surrounded by the most surreal landscapes and red rock formations. It was like I was living in a fairytale. While the hike is short it is not necessarily the easiest. The first section is fairly flat until you reach the base of the impressive Cathedral Rock. From here it is uphill the rest of the way, climbing up a steep incline of sandstone. While Nash was casually walking up the wall, I was crawling behind him on all fours. But don't let this climb stop you from going, if I can do it, so can you!

2. Devil's Bridge

This is the perfect hike for all those desert dreamers looking for a quiet morning hike with mesmerizing views throughout. While this hike is often described as heavily trafficked, the secret is to start your adventure before dawn to avoid the masses and for the chance to get the biggest natural sandstone bridge in Sedona all to yourself (even if it's just for a few minutes). The actual trailhead to Devil's Bridge can only be reached by a four-wheel drive, high-clearance vehicle. However, you can always join a tour, rent an ATV, or park your car at the parking lot and walk the remaining 1.1 miles to the start of the trailhead. The trail is fairly easy to follow and once you reach a set of stairs, you know you've almost made it to the top. This is also where the trail splits, you can either go right and follow the steps up to the Devil's Bridge or go left to admire its grandeur from below. We recommend getting here before sunrise to have this marvelous sight all to yourself.

3. West Fork Trail

I know it might be hard to imagine now but after exploring the fiery red rocks, hopping from one vista to the next, day after day, you might be looking for a change of scenery. This is where the West Fork Trail fits in perfectly. This leisurely hike is not only perfect any time of the day, it leads through a lush green forest and offers at least a dozen creek crossings. Due to its minimal elevation gain and shaded path, it can be a lot of fun for the whole family. Even small kids love it, especially in the summer when they can frolic in the water. I can't recommend this trail enough, especially if you are visiting Sedona during the hot summer months. We came in August, probably the hottest month to visit, and walking beneath the shade of the trees and through the cold creek was so refreshing in contrast to our hikes amongst the red rocks. Not to mention that the trails leading to Devil's Bridge and Cathedral Rock are almost too hot to take on during the day This place must be absolutely beautiful in the fall when all the leaves turn orange and yellow.