We recently asked AI to for alternative descriptions of our “weekend warrior” hiking style. Some of our favorites were: Trail Chillers, Pathfinders, Scenic Striders and Wander Trekkers. We love a good peaceful walk in nature and great views. We don’t have to log the longest hike or most elevation to enjoy ourselves. If this sounds like you, these trails gave us everything we wanted without breaking our bodies. Perfect for travelers who want awe, not exhaustion. The best time to visit for hiking is spring (March–May) or fall (September–November), when the weather is cooler, and the skies are clearer. If you’re not looking to hike and don’t mind the heat, consider the summer months for lower crowds and prices. Just be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen as a lot of these trails are exposed with very little shade.
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Chapel of the Holy Cross
While not technically a ‘hike’, you can park near the bottom of the drive and walk up to the chapel. Alternatively, you can grab a ride on one of the free golf cart shuttles or visit with one of the tour companies in the area. The drive in provides your first glimpse up at the chapel. If you get Frank Lloyd Wright vibes, you wouldn’t be mistaken. The chapel was designed by one of his students. Parking can be challenging. We drove up without any luck, turned around in the very small, pedestrian crowded cul-de-sac and lucked out on our way back down. The walk up is steep but short and you’re rewarded with great views of the valley as well as the chapel itself. Visitors are welcome inside the chapel as well.
Pro Tip: Be respectful. This is a religious site, and people are worshiping not only during services but during their visits as well.
Devil’s Bridge Trail via Dry Creek Road
This is another very popular hike in the Sedona area as it ends at a natural sandstone arch giving you an iconic Instagram photo opportunity on what appears to be a very narrow bridge with the red rock scenery behind you. Approximately 4 miles out & back, this is a more moderate hike but can likely be done by about anyone!
Pro Tip: To avoid waiting 1-2 hours in line for that Instagram photo, wake up early and get on the trail before the mid-morning crowds hit. Solo or don’t have a tripod? No problem! Hand your camera to the folks behind you in line. If you have a specific shot in mind, you may want to give them some pointers using people in front of you as an example.
Courthouse Butte & Bell Rock Loop
Just under 4 miles with options to make it shorter, this relatively flat trail loops around both of these stunning formations providing views throughout the trail. This includes one of the popular vortexes and we saw people sitting near the river where it is said to be found.
Pro Tip: This is popular, and parking can fill up throughout the day. There are a few additional parking lots across the road which would add some mileage to your hike but are an option if you are on a tight schedule.
Broken Arrow Trail
If you’ve seen photos of the popular Jeep tours in Sedona, you’ve probably seen images from this hike. An approximate 3-mile out & back trail ending at Chicken Point, some of this trail is shared with off-road vehicles. This trail has you walking over large smooth rock surfaces which gives you plenty of space to soak in the beautiful 360° views. You also might get to see some of the off-road vehicles carefully navigating over the rocks like we did.
Pro Tip: Chicken Point was extremely windy when we visited. Make sure to secure your hats before heading down to the point.
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