Sedona is a hiker’s paradise, offering breathtaking trails that wind through its dramatic red rock landscapes. Though it can be hard to choose, these three hikes are popular for a reason—they each have something unique to offer, from stunning viewpoints to spiritual serenity. If you’re short on time, these should top your list!

Soldier’s Pass Cave

• Distance: 3.1 miles roundtrip
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Time Needed: About 3 hours (longer if you want to chill along the way)
• Cost: Free parking at the main lot; Red Rock Pass needed for other parking spots
• Dog-Friendly: Yes, dogs on leash

Soldier’s Pass Cave is a must-do Sedona hike with both natural beauty and fascinating landmarks. You can hike out-and-back to the cave as we did, or extend the trek into a loop by connecting with the Brins Mesa Trail. This trail has a bit of shade from cypress trees and beautiful views along the way, making it an enjoyable moderate hike.

A unique feature of this hike is that you pass two impressive natural landmarks. After about a mile, you’ll reach Devil’s Kitchen (see first 3 photos), a massive sinkhole caused by collapsed caverns. It’s an intriguing sight with an eerie beauty, perfect for taking in the dramatic landscape.

Continuing on, you’ll come across the Seven Sacred Pools (see second row photos), a series of small, naturally formed pools that create a peaceful desert oasis. At about the two-mile mark, you’ll reach a fork in the trail; stay to the right to head to Soldier’s Pass Cave. Here, you might find a short line to enter, as there’s a single path in and out. A bit of scrambling with ropes is needed to get inside, but it’s nothing too difficult.

Once inside the cave, you’re rewarded with stunning views framed by the cave’s natural openings, offering a breathtaking look at the red rock landscape outside. The combination of shaded trails, natural landmarks, and unique vistas makes this hike a true gem in Sedona!

Devil’s Bridge via Dry Creek Road

• Distance: 3.9 miles roundtrip
• Difficulty: Moderate, with 521 feet of elevation gain
• Time Needed: 2 hours to half a day, depending on your pace
• Cost: Free parking at Dry Creek Vista Trailhead
• Dog-Friendly: Yes, dogs on leash

Devil’s Bridge is one of Sedona’s most famous trails and for good reason—a natural sandstone arch wide enough to walk across! There are several approaches to this trail, but for a more exciting start, drive a 4×4 or ATV up Dry Creek Road to the 4×4 parking lot near the Devil’s Bridge Trailhead. This shortens the hike and adds a bit of adventure.

From the trailhead, it’s a short but steep climb, with a brief scramble at the end. Walking across Devil’s Bridge is an unforgettable experience, offering amazing views with sheer drops on either side. Be prepared for a line if you want a photo on the bridge, as it’s a popular spot!

Amitabha Stupa & Peace Park

• Distance: Minimal; more of a walk than a hike
• Difficulty: Easy
• Time Needed: About an hour, or more if you stay for meditation
• Cost: Free; donations encouraged

While not a strenuous hike, Amitabha Stupa & Peace Park is a must-see for the calm and beauty it offers. The park’s short paths meander around the vibrant Buddhist stupa, and the setting feels serene and rejuvenating, surrounded by Sedona’s signature red rock formations and the fluttering of prayer flags. It’s a perfect break from Sedona’s more intense trails, inviting a moment of reflection and quiet.

These trails capture the essence of Sedona, showcasing its diverse landscapes, unique rock formations, and peaceful spots. If you’re up for more exploring, there are countless other trails waiting, each one offering its own slice of Sedona’s natural magic. Whether it’s challenging climbs, stunning bridges, or tranquil spaces, these hikes are an ideal way to experience Sedona’s unforgettable beauty.

Sedona, Arizona, is famous for its stunning red rock landscapes, vibrant arts scene, and, of course, its mystical vortexes. These vortexes are believed to be special points on Earth where spiritual energy is heightened, attracting seekers from around the world who come for meditation, healing, and an extra dose of inspiration. Each vortex spot—Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, Airport Mesa, and Boynton Canyon—offers unique scenic views and is thought to have its own energy signature, like calming, inspiring, or healing energy.

And here’s a fun fact for movie buffs: Sedona makes an appearance in The Karate Kid! In the opening scene, as Daniel and his mom are driving to California, the red rock backdrop you see is Sedona. It’s no surprise the film’s creators chose it, given Sedona’s dramatic, almost otherworldly landscapes.

Sedona’s history is equally fascinating. The area has been a crossroads for various Native American tribes for thousands of years and is home to ancient petroglyphs and ruins you can still visit. Sedona is also one of the darkest sky communities in the U.S., meaning it has almost zero light pollution—perfect for stargazing! Whether you’re there to hike, explore the arts, or just soak up the scenery, Sedona has a little magic for everyone.

Sedona has become quite a vegan-friendly haven! With so many places embracing plant-based eating, you’re in for a treat. Here are some top spots to check out if you’re looking for vegan eats:

1. ChocolaTree Organic Oasis

This place is more than a restaurant—it’s a whole experience! With an all-organic, mostly plant-based menu and a cozy garden area, you can indulge in nourishing dishes like their Buddha bowls, raw desserts, and incredible cacao drinks. Everything here is handmade, including their chocolate, so it’s a great spot for a unique Sedona meal.

2. Casa Sedona Inn

Known as a great brunch spot, Casa Sedona offers delicious vegan and gluten-free options. Their vegan tofu scramble is a local favorite, and they often have vegan pancakes or breakfast burritos available too. The views from their outdoor patio make it a dreamy brunch experience.

3. Local Juicery

If you’re looking for a quick, healthy bite, Local Juicery is your go-to. They offer cold-pressed juices, smoothie bowls, and fresh salads packed with superfoods. Their menu is completely gluten-free and has plenty of vegan options. Perfect for a refreshing post-hike meal!

4. Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill

With views that make any meal unforgettable, Mariposa offers a fine dining experience with vegan options. They serve flavorful Latin-inspired vegan plates like roasted vegetable platters and fresh, innovative salads. Make sure to ask about their vegan specials.

5. Thai Palace

For something a bit different, Thai Palace has vegan-friendly curries, stir-fries, and noodle dishes that can be made with tofu. Their flavors are fresh and bold, making it a great choice if you’re in the mood for something spicy and filling.

And if you’re looking to stock up on snacks for the trail, places like Natural Grocers and Whole Foods in Sedona have all the vegan essentials you might need.

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