Tough Trails in Sedona’s Red Rock Country
Sedona is known for its stunning red rock formations and scenic trails, but not every hike here is easy. If you’re looking for a challenge, there are plenty of hard hikes in Sedona that will push your limits with steep climbs, rugged terrain, and rewarding views. From tough summit trails to long-distance treks, these hikes are perfect for experienced hikers who want to see Sedona from a different perspective. In this guide, we highlight the best hard hikes in Sedona so you can plan your next adventure.
Want more options? See our full list of the best hikes in Sedona, including easy and moderate trails.
Bear Mountain
Bear Mountain Trail is one of the toughest hikes in Sedona, but the effort is absolutely worth it. The trail climbs steeply and gains a lot of elevation over a short distance, so expect your heart rate to spike and your legs to burn. At the top you get sweeping views of West Sedona, the nearby canyons and the surrounding red rock formations. Bring plenty of water and snacks.
- This is a difficult 5 mile out and back hike with over 2,024 ft in elevation gain
- This hike is at the same parking lot for Doe Mountain and parking is limited. Bear Mountain is across the street
- There are vault toilets and a trash can at the trailhead, but no water
- Dogs are allowed, but we wouldn’t recommend bringing them on this one
- Red Rocks Pass or Interagency Pass required to park in the parking lot
- Here is the link to AllTrails
Cathedral Rock
- This is a short, but steep and difficult 1.2 mile hike with over 741 ft in elevation gain
- Cathedral Rock parking lot is closed when the shuttle is running and you will need to take the free shuttle
- There are vault toilets and a Kiosk to purchase the Red Rock Pass at the trailhead
- Here is the link to AllTrails
- For trail details, parking tips and photos, read our full Cathedral Rock trail guide
Wilson Mountain
- This is a difficult 12 mile out and back hike with over 2,834 ft in elevation gain.
- The parking lot is small!
- There are vault toilets at the trailhead
- Here is the link to AllTrails
Sterling Pass to Vultee Arch
- This is a hard 5.1 mile out and back hike with over 2,020 ft in elevation. If you don’t have high clearance to hike via the Dry Creek Route this is the alternative
- The trailhead is off the side of the road and there is limited parking
- Here is the link to AllTrails
