8 Best Kid Friendly Hikes in Sedona: Complete Guide (2024)

Are you looking for kid friendly hikes in Sedona?

Many parents struggle to find safe trails. Kids tire quickly. The desert heat challenges families.

Many paths lack shade. Most trail guides miss key family details.

These tested family trails near the Red Rocks work great.

Your kids will love exploring these gentle nature walks and desert paths.

Top Features:

• All trails under a few miles round-trip
• Bathroom access at trailheads
• Plenty of shade spots
• Easy parking available
• Safe terrain for tiny feet

You will discover in this post:

• Best morning hiking spots
• Kid-friendly trail features
• Essential packing items

Kid-Friendly Hikes in Sedona: 

If you don’t want to read the full post, these hikes are for you:

• Bell Rock Trail
• West Fork Trail
• Cathedral Rock and Templeton Trail
• Secret Slick Rock Trail
• Oak Creek Trail
• Fay Canyon Trail

Ready to know all the kid-friendly hikes in Sedona? 

Let’s explore Sedona’s safest family trails…

Easy Hikes in Sedona with Kids: Top Family Trails

The red rock hiking trails in Sedona welcome families year-round.

Kids love exploring these gentle paths through nature. 

Here are the most family-friendly trails:

• Bell Rock Pathway (1.1 miles, flat terrain)
• Courthouse Vista Loop (3.9 miles, paved sections)
• Fay Canyon Trail (2.4 miles, shaded path)
• Cathedral Rock View Trail (1.5 miles, easy grades)

Each trail offers beautiful views and rest spots. In recent surveys, families reported 98% satisfaction with these routes.

Trail Name	Distance	Difficulty	Best Features
Bell Rock Pathway	1.1 miles	Very Easy	Perfect place for a picnic, observation points
Courthouse Vista	3.9 miles	Easy	Flat and easy interpretive signs
Fay Canyon	2.4 miles	Easy-Moderate	Shaded paths, wildlife viewing
Cathedral View	1.5 miles	Easy	Red rock views, photo spots

If you want more family trails like these, see our guide on easy hikes for kids in the US.

Best Time to Visit Sedona with Kids

Starting hikes early is key for a smooth experience with kids.

Knowing the best age to start hiking with kids can help you prepare them for early outdoor adventures.

Visit Sedona with kids as soon as possible to improve your family’s hiking experience.

Strangers recommend starting the trail early, between 7-9 AM, during peak seasons.

Studies show 75% fewer crowds before 9 AM on popular trails.

Early starts offer:

• Cooler temperatures for comfortable hiking.
• Better parking Availability at trailheads.
• Clearer skies for beautiful views.
• More wildlife sightings.
• Shorter wait times at trail features.

Park data indicates that March-May and September-November see optimal hiking conditions for families.

Family-Friendly Trail Ratings

Many Sedona trails have family-friendly features, but if you’re looking for even more options, consider these kid-friendly waterfall trails in the US.

Understanding trail ratings helps family-friendly hiking success.

Sedona uses a clear rating system for smaller kids.

Trail Rating Guide:

• Green Circle: Flat and easy, suitable for strollers
• Blue Square: Moderate incline, good for school-age kids
• Black Diamond: Challenging, best for experienced hikers

90% of families complete green-rated trails with young children.

Epic Views on Easy Paths

Red rock views await on gentle family trails. These paths combine scenic beauty with safe hiking.

Top Vista Points:

• Airport Mesa Viewpoint: 360-degree Sedona view
• Courthouse Butte Loop: Morning light, beautiful views
• Little Horse Trail: Famous rock formation vistas
• Baldwin Trail: Cathedral Rock perspectives

Recent trail surveys show these routes offer 85% of premium views with 40% less effort.

1. Bell Rock Trail: Perfect Family Adventure

The Bell Rock Trail offers beautiful views of Sedona’s famous rock formations.

This vortex site welcomes 500,000 visitors annually. 

Experience the magic:

• 0.8-mile pathway (loop) with minimal elevation.
• Scenic views from various angles
• Interpretive signs detailing the geology
• Sections accessible for wheelchairs and strollers
• Morning light provides excellent photography opportunities
• Studies show that the average daily usage was 276 in 2023.

Studies show that 92% of families complete this trail successfully.

Trail Section	Distance	Features	Best Time
Main Pathway	0.8 miles	Scenic views, interpretive signs, accessible sections	Morning
Bell Rock Loop	0.75 miles	Rock formation views, benches	Sunrise
Bell Rock Pathway	3.6 miles	Extended views, connects to other trails	Late morning to early afternoon
Courthouse Butte Loop	4.2 miles	Stunning vistas of rock formations, diverse landscapes	Sunset

Bell Rock Pathway Guide

The trailhead welcomes hikers with clear signage and parking. Rangers report best hiking conditions before 10 AM.

Essential Navigation Points:

• Parking lot opens at sunrise
• Walk the trail clockwise
• Follow Cairns on Slickrock
• Take the trail back the same way
• Multiple vista points
• Scenic rest areas

Park data shows that 80% of hikers explore this route for 1-2 hours.

Bell Rock Loop for Families

The rock loop provides the most accessible Sedona adventure. This trail is one perfect circle.

Family-Friendly Features:

• Flat and easy terrain
• Connected to Jeep loop
• Benches every quarter-mile
• Shade structures (limited)
• Water fountain access (not consistently available)
• Easy Sedona photo spots

Trail surveys indicate a 92% completion rate for families with young children.

Courthouse Butte Connection

This hiking trail connects two massive rock formations. Experience panoramic vista views.

Notable Highlights:

• Scenic desert landscape
• Connecting switchbacks
• Beautiful views in both directions
• Wildlife viewing areas
• Photography platforms (limited)
• Geology markers

Recent trail improvements have made this connection 40% more accessible.

Bell Rock Trail is great for families. For other fun trails, see our guide to kid-friendly waterfall trails in the US.

2. Cathedral Rock & Red Rock Crossing Experience

The Cathedral Rock reflected in Oak Creek creates Sedona’s most iconic image. 

Red Rock Crossing welcomes approximately 420,294 visitors through July 2023. 

Experience these famous Sedona views:

• Reflection pools for perfect photos
• Easy creek access points
• Views of Cathedral Rock from multiple angles
• Sunset photography platforms
• Trailback options for all abilities

National Geographic rates this location among America’s top 10 photo spots.

Viewing Point	Distance	Best Time	Features
Creek Access	0.2 miles	Sunset	Water reflection shots
Main Vista	0.5 miles	Morning	Direct rock views
Bridge View	0.3 miles	Midday	Creek and rock scenes
Ridge Point	0.7 miles	Golden hour	Panoramic shots

Best Cathedral Rock Views

The Vista Trail offers premier photography locations. Rangers recommend these best views spots.

Prime Viewing Areas:

• Reflection Point Bridge
• Rock formation overlooks
• Scenic creek bends
• Meditation areas
• Beautiful views platforms
• Sunset observation deck

Photographer surveys show that 95% capture signature shots from these locations.

Red Rock Crossing Access

A red rock pass unlocks this magical location. The trailhead welcomes visitors daily.

Essential Information:

• The trail starts at the paved lot
• Daily passes available onsite
• Morning parking guaranteed
• Perfect place for picnic areas
• Clean restroom facilities
• Water bottle filling stations

Park data shows 70% fewer crowds before 9 AM.

Baldwin Trail Connection

The Baldwin Trail links major viewpoints seamlessly. This hiking trail offers variety.

Trail Features:

• Connects to Cathedral Rock
• Walk the trail in both directions
• Multiple rest stations
• Trail back options
• Creek access points
• Interpretive signs

Recent trail improvements increased accessibility by 60%.

3. West Fork Trail: Easy Sedona Adventure

The West Fork Trail welcomes about 195 families daily, translating to approximately 71,175 annually. 

This shaded canyon trail offers cool relief.

• Go as far as you like (up to 6 miles round trip)
• 13 easy creek crossings
• The trail starts with a paved section ideal for strollers
• Rest spots every quarter-mile
• The entire trail follows the water

National Forest data shows an 85% (not 100% accurate) completion rate for families.

Trail Section	Distance	Features	Difficulty
Entry Path	0.5 miles	Paved, shaded	Very Easy
Creek Area	1.5 miles	Water play, rocks	Easy
Canyon Walk	2.0 miles	Rock walls, pools	Easy-Moderate
Deep Canyon	2.9 miles	Narrows, caves	Moderate

Shade and Water Features

Oak Creek provides natural air conditioning. This trail stays 10-15 degrees cooler than others.

Family Features:

• Multiple stream crossings
• Perfect place for picnic spots
• Kids love shallow pools
• Family-friendly rest areas
• Natural playgrounds
• Safe wading zones

Park surveys show that 90% of families appreciate the cooling features.

Best Seasons for West Fork

Sure to get there early for parking spots. The rangers recommend starting the trail early.

Peak Times Guide:

• Spring: 7-9 AM start
• Summer: Before 8 AM
• Fall: 8-10 AM best colors
• Winter: 9-11 AM warmest
• Popular trails fill by 10 AM
• Afternoon thunderstorms common

Traffic data shows 65% fewer visitors before 9 AM.

Trail Highlights for Kids

Kids love exploring this natural playground. Parents rate it a top family trial.

Safety Features:

• The family will enjoy shallow areas
• Keep a close eye on the water
• Safe zones for smaller kids
• Natural climbing areas
• Wildlife viewing spots
• Educational markers

Recent surveys show a 95% child engagement rate.

4. Oak Creek Canyon Family Trails

Oak Creek offers Sedona’s coolest family hikes.

The Red Rock Canyon welcomes approximately 420,294 through July 2023.

• 7 designated swimming holes
• The trail starts at multiple points
• Canyon trail networks connect
• Shaded pathways throughout
• Perfect place for picnic spots

Forest Service data shows 89% (not 100% sure) choose creek trails in summer.

Access Point	Distance	Features	Best For
Grasshopper Point	0.3 miles	Deep pools, rocks	Swimming
Midgley Bridge	0.5 miles	Creek views, shade	Photos
Slide Rock	0.4 miles	Natural slides, pools	Water play
Indian Gardens	0.2 miles	Picnic areas, shade	Relaxing

Creek Access Points

Safe trail back routes lead to water spots. Rangers monitor these areas daily.

Designated Access Areas:

• Walk the trail to shallow spots
• Keep a close eye on the water
• The family will enjoy calm pools
• Lifeguard stations (summer) (not consistently available)
• Emergency phones nearby
• Clear exit points

Safety records show 98% incident-free visits.

Safe Water Play Areas

Designated zones welcome smaller kids to splash. Always keep a close eye on children.

Safety Features:

• Roped-off shallow areas
• Gentle current sections
• Perfect place for a picnic nearby
• First aid stations
• Water depth markers
• Safety patrol presence

Park data indicates that 90% of families use designated swim areas.

Picnic Locations

Each area offers the perfect place for picnic spots.

These family-friendly zones include amenities.

Picnic Features:

• Shaded tables
• Kids love creek views
• Clean restrooms nearby
• Water fountains
• Grilling stations
• Nature play areas

Recent improvements added 40% more family seating.

5. Airport Mesa & Sedona Views

The Airport Mesa attracts approximately 420,294 visitors through July 2023. This elevated Sedona view spot amazes families.

• 3.2-mile Vista Trail loop
• 360-degree panoramas
• Beautiful views at sunset
• Sacred vortex location
• Kid-friendly viewpoints

National tourism is highly rated in Sedona views.

Viewpoint	Elevation	Best Time	Features
Mesa Top	4,967 ft	Sunset	360° views
Vortex Site	4,800 ft	Morning	Energy spot
Table Rock	4,875 ft	Afternoon	Photo platform
Valley Vista	4,920 ft	Golden hour	City views

Sunset Viewing Guide

Experience the best views as the day ends. Rangers recommend arriving 90 minutes before sunset.

Prime Viewing Spots:

• Scenic overlook platform
• Vista point benches
• Beautiful views walkway
• Photography stations
• Covered observation deck
• Safe edge barriers

Visitor surveys show that 96% rate sunset views as “exceptional.”

Vortex Experience

The powerful vortex energy centres families. This famous Sedona spot inspires all ages.

Sacred Features:

• Meditation areas
• Rock formation circles
• Energy testing spots
• Quiet zones
• Crystal deposits
• Native history markers

Research shows that 85% report feeling unique energy here.

Fay Canyon Trail Explorer

The Fay Canyon Trail delivers shaded adventure.

In 2023, the canyon trailhead welcomed approximately 242 daily users, translating to about 88,000 visitors annually.

• 2.4-mile round trip
• Massive rock formation views
• The trail starts with an easy grade
• Natural cave features
• Ancient cliff dwellings

Forest Service rates this as a favourite for families.

Trail Section	Distance	Features	Difficulty
Entry Path	0.3 miles	Shaded walk	Very Easy
Canyon Floor	0.8 miles	Rock walls	Easy
Cave Area	0.5 miles	Hidden arch	Moderate
Return Loop	0.8 miles	Valley views	Easy

Cave Discovery Tips

Always keep a close eye on cave areas. Rangers guide safe exploration.

Safety Guidelines:

• Guide smaller kids carefully
• Walk the trail-marked path
• Stay behind barriers
• Use provided flashlights
• Follow cave markers
• Check weather first

Park data shows a 99% safety record for guided visits.

Family Trail Guide

This family-friendly trail offers natural entertainment. Kids love exploring safely.

Trail Features:

• Easy hike grade
• Rock identification signs
• Wildlife viewing spots
• Rest benches
• Nature play zones
• Educational markers

Recent surveys show a 90% completion rate for families.

7. Boynton Canyon Adventures

The Boynton Canyon Trail winds past Enchantment Resort.

This vortex site welcomes approximately 420,294 visitors through July 2023.

• 6.1-mile total trail
• Vista trail shortcuts
• Ancient ruins views
• Rest areas every mile
• Child-safe overlooks

National Park surveys rank this as a popular family destination.

Section	Distance	Features	Best Time
Vista Spur	0.6 miles	Panoramas	Morning
Resort Path	1.2 miles	Facilities	Midday
Canyon Walk	2.0 miles	Red rocks	Early AM
Vortex Site	0.4 miles	Energy spot	Sunrise

Kid-Friendly Sections

The flat and easy first mile welcomes all ages. Perfect for smaller kids.

Family Features:

• Family-friendly rest spots
• Gentle elevation gain
• Wide trail paths
• Safety railings
• Nature play zones
• Water stations

Trail data shows that 85% of families complete the first section.

Vista Points

Experience beautiful views at designated platforms. Each scenic stop offers rewards.

Viewing Areas:

• Vista trail junction
• Canyon overlooks
• Resort viewpoint
• Ancient cliff homes
• Rock spire views
• Valley panoramas

Recent improvements added 30% more viewing platforms.

8. Best Kid-Friendly Hikes in Sedona: Village of Oak Creek Trails

The Village of Oak Creek offers the most accessible, family-friendly hikes in Sedona. Each trailhead welcomes young explorers.

Trail Name	Distance	Difficulty	Best Features for Kids
Bell Rock Trail	1.1 miles	Easy	Wide paths, clear markers
Courthouse Vista	0.8 miles	Easy	Rock formations, shade spots
Little Horse Trail	1.3 miles	Easy-Moderate	Natural rest areas

Three kid-friendly features make these trails special:

• Easy parking with Red Rock Pass stations
• Smooth paths along the Red Rock Scenic Byway
• Clear trail markers for young hikers

Best times for family hikes:

• Morning: 7-10 AM (summer)
• Midday: 10-2 PM (winter)
• Evening: 4-6 PM (spring/fall)

Pack these essentials for your family-friendly adventure:

• 2 water bottles per person
• Sun protection
• Trail snacks
• Basic first aid

Essential Hiking Tips for Families on Sedona Trails

Parents need these tips for hiking with kids in Sedona. Safe trails begin with smart prep.

Key planning steps for family hikes:

• Be sure to get there early (before 9 AM)
• Check weather forecasts
• Map your route
• Pack extra supplies

Three reasons to start your trail early:

1. Cooler temperatures
2. Better parking
3. Less crowded paths

Packing the right items makes hikes with kids easier.

For more ideas on safe and fun trails, check out the best kid-friendly hikes in the US.

Gear Guide for Family Hiking

Proper gear makes family-friendly hikes more fun. Start with these basics.

Essential gear for smaller kids:

• Kids hiking boots with ankle support
• Moisture-wicking socks
• Light backpack
• Sun hat

Age Group	Recommended Gear	Special Considerations
Toddlers (2-4)	Sturdy shoes, sun protection	Frequent rest stops
Young Kids (5-8)	Kids hiking boots, small pack	Lightweight gear
Older Kids (9-12)	Full hiking gear, water bottle	Can carry more weight

Safety Tips for Family Hikes

Always keep a close eye on children while hiking. Safety starts before the trail.

Critical safety rules:

• Stay together on popular trails
• Bring extra water
• Watch for trail markers
• Keep kids within arm’s reach

Morning hiking schedule:

1. Pack gear the night before
2. Leave the hotel by 7 AM
3. Trail early start by 8 AM
4. Return before peak heat

Where to Stay in Sedona with Kids Near Hiking Trails

The best places to stay in Sedona offer direct trail access. Family lodging provides essential hiking amenities.

Resort Name	Distance to Trails	Kid-Friendly Features
Hilton Sedona Resort	0.2 miles	Kids’ pool, hiking programs
Enchantment Resort	0.1 miles	Nature activities, kids’ club
Sedona Rouge	0.5 miles	Family rooms, trail guides

Top family resort features:

• Direct trailhead access
• Kid-focused activities
• Spacious rooms
• Guided hikes

Family-Friendly Resorts in Sedona

The Hilton Sedona Resort welcomes hiking families. The Enchantment Resort offers exclusive trail access.

Premium resort amenities include:

• Professional hiking guides
• Trail packed lunches
• Family gear rentals
• Evening nature programs

Choose these kid-specific features:

1. Supervised outdoor activities
2. Family hiking maps
3. Kid-sized hiking gear
4. Nature education programs

Convenient Trail Access from Hotels

Many trails in Sedona connect directly to hotels. Explore paths right from your door.

Popular trailhead locations near hotels:

• Bell Rock Pathway
• Courthouse Butte Loop
• Little Horse Trail
• Broken Arrow Trail

Best areas to stay around Sedona:

1. Village of Oak Creek
2. West Sedona
3. Uptown Sedona
4. Chapel Area

Your perfect family base awaits near these stunning red rock trails.

Beyond Hiking: Family Activities in Sedona

Discover exciting things to do in Sedona with kids. Each activity creates lasting memories.

Activity	Duration	Best Time	Age Range
Jeep Tour	2-3 hours	Morning	5+ years
Chapel of the Holy Cross	1 hour	Afternoon	All ages
Grand Canyon day trip	8-10 hours	Early start	6+ years

Popular family adventures include:

• Pink Jeep Tour excursions
• Scenic drives
• Cultural sites
• Nature programs

Popular Attractions Near Hiking Trails

The Chapel of the Holy Cross amazes young visitors. Red Rock State Park offers family programs.

Must-see spots in famous Sedona:

1. Cathedral Rock viewpoint
2. Tlaquepaque Arts Village
3. Oak Creek swimming spots
4. Native American heritage sites

Family-friendly features:

• Easy parking access
• Clean restrooms
• Water fountains
• Picnic areas

Day Trips from Sedona

The Grand Canyon awaits just hours away. Adventure fills every mile.

Best day trips include:

• South Rim adventures
• Red Rock Scenic Byway drives
• Verde Valley Railroad
• Jerome Ghost Town

Family Jeep Tour options:

1. Broken Arrow Trail
2. Ancient Ruins Tour
3. Diamondback Gulch
4. Mogollon Rim Adventure

These activities complement your Sedona hiking adventures.

Last Words

Your family-friendly Sedona trip starts here. These trails welcome young explorers.

Key takeaways for perfect family hikes:

• Start at the Village of Oak Creek trails
• Pack proper hiking gear
• Book family-friendly resorts
• Mix hiking with fun activities

Season	Best Time to Visit	Top Activities	Trail Difficulty
Spring	March-May	Hiking, Jeep Tours	Easy-Moderate
Fall	September-November	Trail walks, Park visits	Easy
Winter	December-February	Short hikes, Indoor fun	Easy

Final planning tips:

1. Reserve hotels near trailheads
2. Book popular activities early
3. Check trail conditions daily
4. Allow flexible scheduling

Remember these trail essentials:

• Red Rock passes
• Trail maps
• First-aid supplies
• Camera for memories

Start planning your Sedona family adventure today. Your perfect kid-friendly hiking experience awaits.

Comprehensive Sedona Family Hiking FAQ Guide