Soldier Pass & Cave Hike
Looking for one of Sedona’s most iconic hikes? The Soldier Pass Trail takes you past some of the area’s most unique landmarks, Devil’s Kitchen Sinkhole, Seven Sacred Pools, and the dramatic Soldier Pass Cave. This moderate hike offers a perfect mix of red rock scenery, adventure, and photo-worthy stops, with a short but steep climb to the cave that makes the effort completely worth it.
Quick Stats
Length:
3 miles
Route Type:
Out & back
Elevation Gain:
419 ft recorded
Vaulted Toilets:
No
How to Get to Soldier Pass Trailhead
The Sedona Shuttle
From spring through fall, Soldier Pass Trailhead is part of the Sedona Shuttle system. During shuttle operating days (generally Thursday through Sunday), the parking lot is closed to the general public and only open to people with permits.
The shuttle runs approximately 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM, but schedules can change. Always check the Sedona Shuttle website for real-time updates and routes. If you want to park at the trailhead, arrive early before shuttle hours. Otherwise, use the free shuttle parking lots and ride to the trailhead. It’s convenient and helps reduce congestion in the neighborhoods.
The Hike
The trail begins flat and gradually gains elevation, immersing you in Sedona’s signature red rock scenery. Within the first 0.25 miles, you’ll reach Devil’s Kitchen Sinkhole, a massive geological feature caused by the collapse of underground rock.
Continue another 0.5 miles to see the Seven Sacred Pools — a series of naturally carved rock pools that fill after rain and sometimes create a cascading waterfall effect. If you visit during dry conditions, the pools may be empty, but they are still a beautiful sight.
Finding the Cave Turnoff
The turnoff to the Soldier Pass Cave is easy to miss. If you pass the Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness sign, you’ve gone too far. Use these coordinates to find the turn: 34.897722, -111.787778. Downloading the AllTrails map before your hike is highly recommended. Cell service can be spotty.
Once you turn off the main trail, the hike gets steeper and more challenging. You’ll climb about 375 feet in just 0.3 miles. Take your time, watch your footing, and be prepared for some light scrambling.
The hardest part is climbing into the cave itself. There are limited footholds and you may need to pull yourself up. If you bring a dog (like we did), be prepared to assist them with the climb.
Once inside, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views framed by the cave opening. The light streaming in from above makes this a favorite photography spot. You can explore deeper into the cave or climb higher if you feel comfortable, but always use caution.
Leave No Trace Reminder
Sedona trails are seeing record visitation. Please stay on marked trails, pack out all trash, don’t leave graffiti, and follow Leave No Trace principles to help protect these red rock landscapes. Check out our hiking tips here.
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