Arizona has some of the country's most scenic and beautiful hiking trails. The summer heat in Arizona can be brutal, but that doesn't mean you have to stay cooped up indoors. With Arizona Shuttle, you can easily escape the heat and explore the great outdoors. This blog will share the best summer hikes in Sedona to help you plan your next adventure. Travel costs from Phoenix to Sedona Phoenix to Sedona shuttle
The West Fork Trail:
The West Fork Trail is a popular hiking trail in Sedona that allows hikers to explore a beautiful canyon. Hikers can enjoy stunning views of the canyon walls and lush vegetation along the route. Trees shade the course and follow a creek, making it the perfect summer hike. The trail is approximately 6.4 miles round trip and is rated as moderate.
Cathedral Rock Trail:
The Cathedral Rock Trail is a challenging but rewarding hike in Sedona. The trail is approximately 1.5 miles round trip and is rated difficult due to its steep incline. Hikers can enjoy stunning views of Cathedral Rock and the surrounding area from the top of the trail. This hike is best done early or late afternoon to avoid the day's heat.
Devil's Bridge Trail:
The Devil's Bridge Trail is a must-do hike for anyone visiting Sedona. The trail is approximately 4.2 miles round trip and is rated as moderate. Hikers can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding red rocks and even walk out onto the Devil's Bridge, a natural sandstone arch. This hike is best done early or late afternoon to avoid the day's heat.
Soldier Pass Trail:
The Soldier Pass Trail is a popular hiking trail in Sedona that allows hikers to explore a beautiful desert landscape. Hikers can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding red rocks and even visit the Seven Sacred Pools, a series of natural pools formed by the creek. The course is approximately 4.2 miles round trip and is rated as moderate.
Bell Rock Trail:
The Bell Rock Trail is a popular hiking trail in Sedona that offers hikers a chance to explore a beautiful red rock landscape. Hikers can enjoy stunning views of Bell Rock and the surrounding area from the top of the trail. The track is approximately 3.6 miles round trip and is rated as moderate.
Sedona is a beautiful destination for summer hikes, and with Arizona Shuttle, you can explore the best trails without worrying about transportation. Book your trip today and escape the heat while enjoying the beauty of Sedona.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time should I start the Cathedral Rock Trail to avoid the heat?
Start early or late afternoon to beat the day's heat.
How long is the Devil's Bridge Trail and what can I see there?
The trail is about 4.2 miles round trip, offering views of red rocks and a walk on Devil's Bridge.
Can I visit the Seven Sacred Pools while hiking Soldier Pass?
Yes, you can explore the Seven Sacred Pools along the Soldier Pass Trail.
How does the West Fork Trail compare to Bell Rock Trail in terms of distance?
The West Fork Trail is about 6.4 miles round trip, while the Bell Rock Trail is 3.6 miles.
More Must-Do Summer Hikes in Sedona
If you’ve already tackled the classic West Fork, Cathedral Rock, Devil’s Bridge, Soldier Pass, and Bell Rock loops, Sedona has plenty more summer‑friendly trails that deliver dramatic red‑rock scenery without the midday blaze. Below are seven additional hikes that rank among the best summer hikes in Sedona, each with a quick snapshot of distance, difficulty, and what makes it shine in the warmer months (source: earthtrekkers.com; sedonamonthly.com).
Boynton Canyon Trail
Boynton Canyon stretches about 5.8 mi round‑trip and gains roughly 700 ft of elevation, making it a moderate trek that can be completed in 2–3 hours. The path winds through pinyon‑juniper forest before opening to striking views of the canyon’s vermillion walls. Early morning light paints the rocks in deep orange, and the shade from the canyon’s rim helps keep temperatures more comfortable for a summer hike. Parking fills quickly; arrive before 7 am or use the Red Rock Pass (approx. $5 per day) at the Boynton Canyon Trailhead on FR 9812.
Fay Canyon
Fay Canyon is a short, family‑friendly option at roughly 2 mi round‑trip with only a modest climb of about 200 ft. The trail follows a sandy wash shaded by cottonwood trees, offering a cool escape on hot days. The highlight is a hidden rock alcove that many hikers call the “Fay Canyon Arch.” Because the route is mostly flat, it’s ideal for those looking for an easy stroll with rewarding scenery (source: earthtrekkers.com).
The Birthing Cave (Long Canyon)
The hike to The Birthing Cave is a 2‑mi round‑trip venture with a gentle 250‑ft elevation gain, rated easy‑to‑moderate. After a relaxed 0.5‑mi walk along Long Canyon Creek, the trail climbs to a sandstone cave that frames a striking view of the surrounding mesas. The cave’s opening faces west, perfect for late‑afternoon sun photography. Bring a wide‑angle lens to capture the expansive red‑rock backdrop (source: sedonamonthly.com).
Airport Loop Trail
The Airport Loop circles Airport Mesa, a shrub‑covered plateau located just south of downtown Sedona. The loop is about 3 mi with roughly 400 ft of total ascent, rated easy. From the summit, you’ll see panoramic vistas of Coffee Pot Rock, Cathedral Rock, and the Mogollon Rim. Because the mesa faces east‑west, early morning hikers catch a sunrise over the red rocks, while late‑afternoon visitors enjoy a golden glow on the cliffs. Parking is available at the Airport Mesa Trailhead off AZ‑179.
Bear Mountain
For those craving a challenge, Bear Mountain delivers 5 mi round‑trip with a steep 1,800‑ft elevation gain—Sedona’s toughest climb. The trail climbs sharply through scrub oak and manzanita before emerging onto a rocky summit with unobstructed 360‑degree views of the Verde Valley and the distant San Francisco Peaks. Summer hikers should start before 6 am to avoid the hottest part of the day and to secure a spot in the small trailhead lot (source: earthtrekkers.com).
Subway Cave (Optional Add‑On)
While the Subway Cave is technically a separate route off the Boynton Canyon area, many hikers tack it onto their Boynton Canyon trek for an extra 1.5 mi (round‑trip) of adventure. The narrow, rocky passage feels like a subterranean tunnel, offering a cool respite from the summer sun. Note that the approach involves a short, steep scramble; a good pair of hiking shoes is essential.
West Fork Trail (Extended View)
The classic West Fork Oak Creek hike is already popular, but extending the route beyond the usual 6‑mi loop by continuing north into the upper reaches of the canyon adds an extra mile of creek‑side walking. This extension offers more shade and a chance to see the creek’s small waterfalls, which can be especially refreshing in early summer after spring runoff.
Quick‑Reference Comparison of Top Sedona Summer Hikes
| Trail Name | Distance (round‑trip) | Difficulty | Elevation Gain | Est. Time | Key Tip for Summer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| West Fork Trail | 6 mi | Easy‑Moderate | 535 ft | 3‑5 hrs | Follow Oak Creek for shade; start early or late afternoon. |
| Cathedral Rock | 1.2 mi | Moderate | 700 ft | 1‑2 hrs | Arrive before 7 am to secure parking and beat heat. |
| Devil’s Bridge | 2‑4 mi | Easy‑Moderate | 400‑500 ft | 1‑3 hrs | Use the Mescal Trailhead if you don’t have a 4WD; late‑day light is best for photos. |
| Soldier Pass | 4.5 mi | Moderate | 800 ft | 2‑4 hrs | Visit the Seven Sacred Pools after the creek flow subsides in summer. |
| Bell Rock | 3.6 mi | Moderate | 400 ft | 1‑2 hrs | The trail’s first 0.25 mi are marked; early morning offers cool temps. |
| Boynton Canyon | 5.8 mi | Moderate | 700 ft | 2‑3 hrs | Park at FR 9812; Red Rock Pass required (approx. $5/day). |
| Fay Canyon | 2 mi | Easy | 200 ft | 1 hr | Shaded wash makes it a cool option for hot afternoons. |
| The Birthing Cave | 2 mi | Easy‑Moderate | 250 ft | 1‑2 hrs | Late‑afternoon sun highlights the cave opening; bring water. |
| Airport Loop | 3 mi | Easy | 400 ft | 2 hrs | Sunrise or sunset views; small lot fills early, consider shuttle. |
| Bear Mountain | 5 mi | Strenuous | 1,800 ft | 4‑6 hrs | Start before 6 am; steep grades demand good footwear. |
Tips for Hiking Sedona in Summer
- Start early or go late: Parking lots at popular trailheads fill by 7 am during peak season. An early start (6‑7 am) or a late‑afternoon hike (3:30‑7 pm) helps you beat the heat and secure a spot.
- Stay hydrated: Carry at least 2 L of water per person; the desert air dries quickly, even when temperatures feel moderate in the shade.
- Sun protection: Wear a wide‑brim hat, apply sunscreen, and consider UPF clothing. A pair of lightweight, breathable layers can protect against both sun and occasional gusts.
- Red Rock Pass: Most trailhead parking areas require a Red Rock Pass (approx. $5 per day or $15 per week). Purchase at local kiosks or use the mobile app before you arrive.
- Use a shuttle or rideshare: Many of the most scenic routes (including Airport Mesa and Devil’s Bridge) have limited parking. Arizona Shuttle offers convenient service from Phoenix, letting you relax while someone else handles the drive.
- Mind the 4WD roads: Devil’s Bridge and some Boynton Canyon access roads are rough. If your vehicle isn’t 4WD, park at the designated alternative lots and walk the final stretch.
- Leave no trace: Stick to marked trails, carry out all trash, and avoid disturbing wildlife. Sedona’s fragile desert ecosystem benefits from respectful hiking practices.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of day to hike Cathedral Rock in summer?
Aim to start between 5:30 am and 6:30 am to catch cool morning air and avoid the midday sun. If you prefer an evening trek, head out after 5 pm for softer light and lower temperatures.
Do I need a Red Rock Pass for all Sedona trailheads?
Most parking areas managed by the Coconino National Forest require a Red Rock Pass. Some roadside pull
