Any traveler looking up hiking guides in Sedona has read about Cathedral Rock and Devil’s Bridge, which is why each year when they dust off the red dirt from their hiking boots to hit the trails in Sedona, they are faced with immense crowds at these overly-popularized hikes. With over 400 trails to weave among Sedona’s sandstone towers and buttes, here are some of the underrated and less populated where hikers can savor scenery and solitude.
Ground Control-Outer Limits Loop
More than just panoramas, this trail allows hikers to walk on the rock bones of this rough-hewn landscape, then explore the Western Gateway Trails from the other side of Dry Creek. This 3.5-mile loop is up on the shoulder of the Cockscomb using the new Ground Control and Outer Limits trails. Starting at the Aerie Trailhead, you venture off on the Cockscomb Trail for about a mile as it scrambles across open country. You will pass the junction with Outer Limits, but keep going since taking the loop counter-clockwise means a much steeper climb. Once you reach Ground Control at the base of the Cockscomb formation, you will follow this route as it slants uphill in a modest ascent. Keep your head up because you won’t want to miss these views.
Ground Control is a thin trail that glides up the flank of Cockscomb and clings to the curving sandstone. Edgy and ledgy, the narrow passage hugs the cliff above the valley floor. You may start to feel like you are on a slow-motion carnival ride as you lightly climb along. The path curls under the tall columns that give Cockscomb its name and then has a steep drop over the side. This is where you connect with the Outer Limits Loop. You will veer right and continue through ocotillos and make your way back to Cockscomb Trail.
Length: 3.5 miles round trip.
Difficulty: Moderate.
Admission: Free.
Baldwin Trail
If you’re looking for the iconic Sedona hike packed with great views and a side trip to Oak Creek, then this is your hike. Baldwin Trail offers great views of Cathedral Rock and access to connecting trails. The trail starts in a corridor across the creek from Red Rock Crossing, just past the Baldwin/Crescent Moon trail sign. You will turn to head towards the path that leads to the stream. On this path you will have the ideal vantage point of the majestic Cathedral Rock which is rising above the crystal waters of Oak Creek. You will return to the main trail and follow the sandy path through lush woodlands toward Cathedral. At the half mile mark, the Baldwin Trail veers right where you will pass between Cathedral and a red rock butte. Views improve (if you can believe it) as you get higher. The trail will level out and then curves around the backside of the butte, before returning you to the trailhead.
Length: 2.5 miles round trip.
Difficulty: Easy.
Admission: A Red Rock Pass, available at the trailhead, is required. Cost is $5 per day.
Schuerman Mountain Trail
Most trails near Sedona explore the red cliffs and canyons, so it may be easy to overlook an old volcano in the area. Schuerman Mountain Trail is in west Sedona, a high tableland that offers commanding views of extravagant formations. The trail starts at Sedona High School and heads uphill at a moderate tilt for half of a mile before reaching the rim. This trail is actually more mesa than mountain, a flat-topped mountain with juniper. At the top, you will have some choices. A right turn leads to the summit, and beyond that some impressive views of the Verde Valley. Heading left will connect you to the Vista Trail which ends at a ledge of basaltic lava rocks where you’re treated to big panoramas of Cathedral Rock and neighboring formations.
If you want to continue to enjoy the great outdoors and healing powers of Sedona (or just not ready to return to civilization), follow the rest of Schuerman Mountain Trail as it crosses the plateau. You’ll go over sloping basins of grasslands with junipers and pines for more than a mile before the path tumbles off the backside of the mountain to connect with Lime Kiln Trail.
Length: 2 miles round trip to the vista.
Difficulty: Moderate.
Admission: Free.