5 Bucket List Hikes

If you're looking for one of the most epic hiking destinations in the United States, Sedona, Arizona should be at the top of your bucket list. From iconic red rock formations to jaw-dropping, natural arches, Sedona has some of the most beautiful trails in Arizona, and arguably the entire Southwest.

We were lucky enough to spend five weeks in Sedona last February and were blown away by the incredible views around us during each hike. Out of all the trails we explored, here are five of my favorite hiking trails that should be on your itinerary.

Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or building a full Sedona hiking guide for your trip, here are the bucket list trails you can't miss.

1. Devil's Bridge

Best for: A breathtaking experience and iconic photo

Devil's Bridge is arguably the most famous hike in Sedona. It's the largest natural sandstone arch in the area and known for this iconic photo spot. The trail itself is relatively moderate, with a gradual incline that gets steeper toward the end. The final section includes a short rock scramble before reaching the top of the arch.

Given its popularity, it gets busy at the viewpoint during peak times. Since this was the hike I was most excited for, we went early to catch the sunrise and beat the crowds, and it was 100% worth it! Watching the first light hit the red rocks while standing on the arch is a surreal experience and one of the most unforgettable views in Sedona.

Distance: 3.9 miles round trip | Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours | Difficulty: Moderate

2. Cathedral Rock

Best for: Sunset views and Sedona vortex energy

Cathedral Rock is magical and easily one of the best sunset hikes in Arizona. Best of all, it's relatively easy and fun to get to, with a short trail and sections of rock scrambling on the way up. We hiked Cathedral Rock twice and explored different viewpoints each time. The first time, we turned left at the top, leading to the vortex site. A vortex is an area of concentrated spiritual energy, for which Sedona is well-known. Some visitors report feeling a sense of clarity or renewed energy when they enter a vortex. Whether you believe in vortexes or not, you can't deny an overwhelming feeling of awe at this spot.

The second time we hiked Cathedral Rock, we turned right and headed toward the classic cliffside viewpoint for sunset. At golden hour, the area glows as the entire landscape turns fiery orange. It's a beautiful and quintessential Sedona experience.

Distance: 1.2 miles round trip | Duration: 1 to 2 hours | Difficulty: Easy

3. Birthing Cave

Best for: Low effort, high reward

If you're looking for an easy, yet beautiful hike, the Birthing Cave is the perfect option. The trail is relatively short and flat, making it a leisurely hike. Once you get there, the cave itself is a stunning crescent-shaped rock formation carved into the red cliffs. From inside the cave, you'll get sweeping, panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape. It's magnificent at sunrise when the light softly illuminates the cave walls.

The Birthing Cave is also considered one of Sedona's vortex sites, known for its healing energy and cultural significance to the indigenous Hopi people. It's one of the most unique rock formations I've experienced, and the combination of unique geology, spiritual history and dramatic views makes this one of the most rewarding short hikes in Sedona. Don't forget to bring a wide angle lens to capture the whole view!

Distance: 2 miles round trip | Duration: 1 hour | Difficulty: Easy

4. Boynton Canyon Trail

Best for: Adventurous hikers and secret cave views

My favorite view in Sedona has to be the one found on Boynton Canyon Trail. It's one of the most scenic canyon hikes in Sedona, but what really draws hikers here is the famous "Subway Cave," also known as the "secret cave."

About two miles into the hike, you'll find a distinctive alligator juniper tree marking the unmarked turnoff toward the cave. From there, a narrow side trail and steep rock scramble lead up to the cave entrance. It's not officially marked, which is partly how it earned its "secret" nickname. It's not the easiest hike to find, but the payoff is incredible. Inside the cave, you'll find a massive curved rock opening that frames the canyon below. If you have a full day and are up for a challenging route, don't miss this one!

Distance: 6.1 miles round trip | Duration: 4 to 6 hours | Difficulty: Moderate

5. Soldier Pass Trail

Best for: A variety of sights and unique geological features

Soldier Pass is one of the most interesting hikes in Sedona, because there are so many surprises along the way. Around every corner, there's something new to see, from the Seven Sacred Pools to Soldier Pass Cave to the Red Rock Mountain Secret Wilderness Area. Each turn reveals something new, making it one of the most diverse hiking experiences in Sedona.

These unique features make it a popular spot, so the best time to go is in the morning. The small parking lot opens at 8 a.m. and there are only 16 spaces. It can fill up quickly, so we came before 8 a.m. and waited in line for the gate to open to secure a spot. However, if you're short on time and want to see a little bit of everything, this is a great choice.

Distance: 4.7 miles round trip | Duration: 2 to 3 hours | Difficulty: Moderate

Tips for hiking in Sedona

If you're planning a Sedona hiking trip, here are a few important tips:

• Start early. Arizona heat can be intense, even outside of summer.
• Bring plenty of water. There is very little shade on most trails.
• Wear proper footwear. Many trails involve slick rock and scrambling.
• Check parking rules. Some trailheads require a Red Rock Pass or fill up quickly.
• Download offline maps. Cell service can be unreliable.

Why hiking in Sedona is so special

Hiking in Sedona feels different. There's an energy here - whether spiritual, geological or simply the awe of standing among 300-million-year-old red sandstone formations. The colors shift throughout the day, glowing deep red at sunrise and fiery orange at sunset. Every trail offers a slightly different perspective of the landscape.

From iconic natural arches like Devil's Bridge to vortex hikes like Cathedral Rock and hidden caves like Boynton Canyon, Sedona offers something for every type of hiker. If you're planning a trip and searching for the best hikes in Sedona, Arizona, I hope this guide gives you inspiration for your itinerary and shows you a glimpse of Sedona's magic.

Happy hiking!