Family-friendly Sedona
Sedona is a magical place, and there's more to Sedona than just Slide Rock and Uptown. Sedona offers a myriad of hiking trails that are perfect for families with children. Enjoy these family-friendly recommendations for Sedona - connect with nature and create lasting memories together.
Family-friendly Hikes
As with any desert hike, be sure to pack sun hats, closed toe shoes, and lots of water for the whole family.
Our local neighborhood hike is Sugarloaf Mountain. There is secret neighborhood access off Stations West, an easy 5-10 min walk from Cactus Moon House.
Fay Canyon Trail, known for its easy terrain and picturesque surroundings. With a distance of just under two miles, this hike is suitable for kids of all ages.
Devil's Bridge Trail, where children can embark on an adventure to reach the famous natural sandstone arch. Discover this 4.0-mile out-and-back trail with a moderate level of difficulty, providing a sense of accomplishment while being exciting for little explorers. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 1 h 42 min to complete. This is a very popular area for hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The best times to visit this trail are September through May.
Soldiers Pass Trail offers a unique experience as kids can observe ancient petroglyphs and the famous Seven Sacred Pools, making it an educational excursion.
Airport Mesa
Crescent Moon: short, easy hikes, close to Oak Creek Canyon
Bell Rock view/hike: Iconic red rock just north of the Village of Oak Creek. Best views are in the morning. The Bell Rock Pathway is a 3.6-mile trail. Along this pathway you'll enjoy fantastic views of Bell Rock, Courthouse Butte, and other landmarks. Most of the pathway has a wide, hard surface, but there are some steep hills too.
Birthing Cave: Try this 1.9-mile out-and-back trail near Sedona, Arizona. Generally considered a moderately challenging route. This is a very popular area for hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The best times to visit this trail are October through May.
The Bell Rock Pathway is a 3.6-mile trail. Along this pathway you'll enjoy fantastic views of Bell Rock, Courthouse Butte, and other landmarks. Most of the pathway has a wide, hard surface, but there are some steep hills too. Some places around Bell Rock are rocky and rough.
Tip! The city of Sedona offers a free shuttle service from designated park & ride locations within central Sedona. The service operates Thursday through Sunday and is free and open to the general public. For more information on shuttle schedules and park & ride locations, please visit SedonaShuttle.com.
Must See & Do
Verde Canyon Railroad: embark on an extraordinary journey through Arizona's secluded backcountry with this captivating Southwestern expedition. This exceptional train ride offers passengers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse themselves in the breathtaking beauty of a vibrant red-rock canyon, accessible only from the plush comfort of this legendary train.
Picnic or stroll in Red Rocks State Park. daily guided hikes, twice weekly bird walks, hummingbird and butterfly garden, Junior Ranger program for kids up to 6 years. Red Rock Crossing/ Crescent Moon is a short walk from the park entrance. The best views are in the afternoon, but the last entry is at 4:30 PM.
Walk to Posse Grounds Park: just a 5 min. walk from the house, Posse Grounds Park recently underwent at $2M renovation for a new playground and features fields, basketball courts, picnic areas, bathrooms, a skate park and a bike park. The park features several picnic tables and grills, providing ample space for cooking up some delicious food. There are also plenty of shade trees and open grassy areas, providing a comfortable and scenic setting.
Eat at the Teal Arches: learn more about why these are the only teal McDonald’s arches in the world!
Do a spooky ghost tour in Jerome. A really fun way to get to explore and get to know this historic town is by going on a ghost tour in Jerome. This ghost and history walking tour will take you through the town’s haunted past. The tour uses paranormal equipment to prove its stories.
The tour guides share a bunch of great historical knowledge about Jerome and Arizona as a whole.
Visit The Chapel of the Holy Cross: a beautiful, nondenominational chapel with spectacular views, especially in the morning.
Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park: a peaceful area with Buddhist statues and architecture surrounded by pine trees and red rocks. Nice winding walking trails in a secluded setting. Parking is available at the park, or hike from the house.
Slide Rock State Park: surrounded by picturesque canyons and lush vegetation, Slide Rock State Park invites you to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature while enjoying a day of outdoor fun. Whether you're looking to take a thrilling slide, picnic by the water's edge, or simply bask in the tranquility of the surroundings, a visit to Slide Rock State Park is an absolute must for any Sedona itinerary. Discover the joy of this natural waterslide wonderland and make memories to cherish for a lifetime.
Pink Jeep Tours: guided by seasoned and knowledgeable drivers, these tours take you off the beaten path, revealing hidden gems and breathtaking vistas that are otherwise inaccessible. Feel the thrill as the jeep navigates rugged terrain and steep canyons, providing a heart-pounding yet safe expedition. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a photography lover, or simply seeking an adrenaline rush, a Pink Jeep Tour promises an unforgettable and immersive experience of Sedona's natural wonders.
