August 6, 2024
If you’ve never hiked in Sedona, it’s all new to you, yet we know the allure of an off-the-beaten-path destination that provides solitude as well as spectacular scenery. We’ve pulled together our list of the hidden gems for avid hikers that best show off one of the most beautiful places in America, and go beyond the iconic formations of Cathedral Rock and Bell Rock.
Do keep in mind that your GPS device may not be wholly reliable as you head for and hike along these trails. We recommend – in addition to sunscreen and water – a printed map and/or a downloadable GPX file.
Enjoy!
P.S. Not a hiker? Sedona has mountain biking, golfing, jeep excursions, and more. Check out some of favorites here.
#1 The Subway
Tucked off one of Sedona’s most popular trails,the Boynton Canyon Trail, this incredibly photogenic location is not to be missed by nature shutterbugs. Local hikers will tell you to hike about a mile in along Boynton Canyon Trail at a steady pace and look for the Alligator Juniper Tree, with bark that looks like an alligator’s skin. After the tree, turn right (there is typically an arrow created from rocks on the ground to show the way). Hike to the fallen tree and turn right again. Once you reach the cave, you can climb the rocks straight up or take the rim trail. Be sure to keep going around the corner and you can see a beautiful Sinagua ruin.
#2 The Dream Speaker Cave
Combine your trek to The Subway with this gem, one of the area’s best-preserved cliff dwellings, with a 360-degree view, towering cliffs, and rock spires. The Boynton Needle is the prominent rock spire you’ll see from the main trail; the Dreamspeaker is the second spire on the same ledge. Inside, there’s an impressive cliff dwelling. If you’re visiting in the winter or spring, you might find a few reflecting pools. Stroll around the open slickrock and get inspired.
#3 The Warrior’s Wall Ruins
If you have a hardy vehicle, skip the crowds and head to this collection of cliff dwellings that was previously reserved for local visitors only. The wall was named for a strategically placed defensive wall on a narrow ledge and sits across the canyon from the largest single rock-art panel in Red Rock Country. The ceremonially significant Sinaguan site contains myriad pictographs and petroglyphs dating back thousands of years. Look for the Kachina mask on the panel.
#4 Sunrise Ledge
For peace and quiet, an ancient cliff dwelling, and even the remains of a Prohibition Era moonshine still, head to the moderate Sunrise Ledge – approximately 1 mile off the main trail system off Boynton Pass Road. Follow the trail to a ledge 400 feet above the canyon for a mesmerizing view, then to the wider part of the trail, where a sharp point called the Stiletto just out.
#5 The Ice Cream Cone Ruins
Go for the name, stay for the solitude and the unique structure of these picturesque cliff dwellings. The three-room ruin hangs high in the canyon wall and is tucked behind the Three Sisters, all part of an area inhabited by ancient Sinagua farmers. The ruin got its name from a nearby landmark that looks like – you guessed it – soft-serve ice cream cone! Look for the small rock-art panel within the cathedral-like alcove.
Ready to soothe your hiking muscles? Come soak in our outdoor hot tub under the night sky, or pull up a chair to listen to live music and sip local wine. Check out our specials here.