One of the most difficult aspects of your next family hike in Sedona, Arizona, will be choosing which trails to explore. Sure, some hikes can be physically challenging, but with so many stunning trails and outdoor adventure locales, it might be easier to narrow down the playing field — choose from this list of stunning hikes with beautiful focal points you don’t need a permit, a parking pass or a visitors fee for.
Beginning with the shortest trek on our list, Doe Mountain Trail is an out-and-back hike, totaling 1.4–2.5 miles, depending on how much time you spend exploring the mesa. The highest elevation point is 400 feet and, with moderately difficult trails, the views will be the most breathtaking part.
Doe Mountain Overlook. Photo: Caroline Klapper | Dreamstime.com
Another moderate hike following an out-and-back trail look, Devil’s Bridge comes to a two–four-mile loop, depending on where you begin the hike. Expect elevations up to 400 feet and well-earned views of the largest natural sandstone arch in the Sedona area. Begin at Dry Creek Road for the shorter trek, or opt for the Mescal Trailhead entrance on Long Canyon Road for the longer version with the older kids.
Another out-and-back style trek, Bear Mountain Trail packs more of a punch for adventure seekers. This loop extends four–five miles, depending on your route, and can reach up to 2,100 feet in elevation. This hike may be a bit more strenuous, but completely worth the physicality — nearly the whole hike offers stunning vistas. Expect this trail to take you a few hours.
While a little on the longer side rounding out at six miles, Boynton Canyon Trail is on the more moderate side. With an elevation of 650 feet, this stunner showcases the region’s diverse red sandstone, greenery, wildlife and unique desert-to-lush forest landscape. This one is great for a choose-your-own-adventure hike with teens.
Boynton Canyon Trail. Photo: Maria Feklistova | Dreamstime.com
Leading to the famously beautiful Merry-Go-Round Rock, or Carousel Rock, this trail is majestic to say the least. This loop can extend six–eight miles with an elevation of 1,200 feet. It’s an easy-to-moderate trail, but on the longer side. This region is generally unshaded and getting on to Merry-Go-Round Rock can sometimes be restricted, so plan ahead for full sun and the possibility of not getting as close to the focal point as expected.
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