10 Family-Friendly Hikes in Sedona, Arizona

Sedona, Arizona is a beautiful and unique place that offers stunning landscapes, plenty of outdoor activities for the family, and some great family-friendly hiking trails. If you’re looking for family-friendly hikes in Sedona that will keep everyone entertained, look no further!

Here are 10 hikes in this gorgeous desert oasis of Sedona that are perfect for families of all ages!

1. Bear Mountain Trail

This easy trail is ideal for a family of hikers to get their feet wet. The family-hike is a 2.2-mile loop that offers spectacular views of the red rocks that Sedona is famous for and can be completed in about an hour and a half. The trailhead is located at the entrance to Boynton Canyon and it leads up to a fire tower with 360 degree views of the surrounding area.

2. Bell Rock

Bell Rock is one of the most iconic spots in Sedona and our families' favorite hike. Its unique bell shape makes it a great spot for photos and a perfect place to begin your hike. Hike this family friendly 2-mile roundtrip loop trail that meanders around the base of Bell Rock on a gravel trail and provides spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. It's also an easy trail with little elevation gain, making it suitable for even younger hikers and families of all ages. This family friendly hike in Sedona also allows the kiddos to scramble up the red rocks, making it a great family hike. At the parking lot there is a bathroom which makes it a great spot for the kiddos to take a break!

3. Baldwin Trail

This hike is very family-friendly as it not only has a slight elevation gain but it is just 2-miles long. Something that is a bit hard to come by when going on family-friendly hikes in Sedona, Arizona is shade. And this pathway has plenty of trees to give you and your family some relief from the sun. 

4. Airport Trail

The Airport Trail is a short but sweet 1-mile out and back trail that takes you up to an overlook on top of Airport Mesa. There is parking along the bottom part of the trail but very little spaces. Hiking down from the upper parking lot you'll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the town below and all the way out to distant red rock formations in the distance. The trail itself is relatively flat and family friendly, making it ideal for everyone from beginner hikers to seasoned veterans.

5. Cathedral Rock Trail

This short but steep trail is great for families looking for a challenge without going overboard. At 1.5 miles long, it’s a manageable hike with plenty of stops along the way to admire the views or take pictures. It takes about an hour and a half to complete the roundtrip trek and there’s even a cave near the top where the family can take a break if they want.

6. Soldier's Pass

The Soldiers Pass trailhead is located near Jordan Road and is another great option for families looking to explore Sedona’s beauty without having to endure long hikes or steep climbs. This hike is basically in a neighborhood, so if you are planning to hike this spot, get there early and line up for when the parking lot opens so you can get a spot as it only holds 14 cars. There is no parking in the neighborhood but overflowing parking within a walk away. At 4 miles roundtrip, this moderate hike takes you past seven different points of interest including Devil's Kitchen Sinkhole and Seven Sacred Pools. With its easy access point, Soldiers Pass makes for a great introduction to Sedona’s trails for little hikers in the family! If you have older kids in the family and looking for a bit harder hike, once you get to the Wilderness Trail sign, take a right to the Soldier's Pass Cave. The hike is definitely one that the kids can do, but not for little ones. Once you get to the top you can climb inside the cave using stairs and sit and cool off from the hike!

7. Brins Mesa Trail

The Brins Mesa Trail offers up a 7-mile loop option. This family friendly trail has a gradual elevation gain throughout, making it ideal for those families who want a leisurely day out in nature with lots of stops along the way to take pictures! Bring some snacks and rest when you need or want to. No matter what your families' level of experience or fitness level might be, there's something here in Sedona for everyone looking for family-friendly hikes! From easy strolls through town centers to challenging treks through rugged terrain—these trails offer something special that will please hikers of all ages and abilities alike! Bring your family together and explore all that Sedona has to offer—you won't regret it!

8. West Fork Trail

Nestled in Oak Creek Canyon, West Fork Trail is a magical escape from the desert heat, featuring shady forest paths, gentle creek crossings, and breathtaking scenery. This trail is about 6.5 miles round trip and is a favorite for families because of its variety of natural features and fun opportunities for kids to wade in the cool water.

9. Sedona View Trail

Sedona View Trail lives up to its name, offering panoramic views of red rock formations and the surrounding area. This gentle, straightforward walk is ideal for families with younger kids or those looking for a shorter hike. the hike is about 1.0 miles one way. Plus, it’s right next to the Sedona Airport Mesa Trail, so you can combine it with a stop for even more scenic beauty of Sedona. 

10. Courthouse Butte Loop Trail

This trail circles two iconic formations, Courthouse Butte and Bell Rock, and offers a mix of open views and closer encounters with Sedona’s unique flora. The 4.0 mile loop is one that families will love due to the variety of terrain, and there’s always something new around each bend to keep kids curious and excited.

Sedona offers more than just beautiful hikes. It’s a place where families can reconnect, explore, and discover the wonders of nature together. The dramatic red rock formations, vibrant skies, and peaceful trails make every outing feel like a grand adventure. After a morning hike, enjoy a picnic surrounded by nature or cool off in nearby Oak Creek. You’ll find that Sedona isn’t just a destination; it’s a bonding experience for the whole family.

Planning a visit to Sedona? Read about 12 family-friendly things to do in Sedona, Arizona.