5 hikes

Question

Started a new post to be more specific. First visit and there 5 days. Can some of the experts weigh in on 1 hike for each of the 5 days. Something under 2.5 miles round trip. Can’t be any spots where we are in the edge of a dangerous drop off. GF can’t handle that. Rocks and vistas are more important than wilderness and streams to us. Thanks everyone.

Answer

For a first-time visit to Sedona with 5 days to explore and a preference for short, safe hikes with scenic rocks and vistas, here’s a suggested itinerary of hikes under 2.5 miles round trip. All these trails are relatively flat or moderate, and avoid dangerous drop-offs while still offering iconic views.

Day 1: Bell Rock Pathway – This trail is very accessible and iconic. You can do a loop around the base of Bell Rock, which is under 2 miles round trip. The views of the red rock formations are stunning without any exposed cliff edges.
Day 2: Cathedral Rock View Trail – Instead of the full Cathedral Rock climb, take the short viewpoint trail from the parking area. It’s under 2 miles round trip and offers excellent views of Cathedral Rock without the scrambling or drop-offs.
Day 3: Doe Mountain Trail – The trail to the mesa top is about 2 miles round trip. The top offers panoramic vistas over Sedona’s red rock landscape, and the edges are manageable and safe for careful hikers.
Day 4: Fay Canyon Trail – A gentle trail under 2 miles round trip with rock walls on both sides. You get a “canyon” feel and scenic rock formations without the risk of sheer drop-offs.
Day 5: Courthouse Butte Loop – A short loop around Courthouse Butte is about 2.5 miles. It’s fairly flat and provides fantastic views of both Courthouse Butte and Bell Rock, making for a scenic, relaxing final hike.

Additional tips:

Start early in the day to avoid heat and crowds, even in fall or winter.
Bring water, sunscreen, and sturdy shoes; even short hikes in Sedona can be rocky.
Parking can fill up at popular trailheads, so plan accordingly.

These five hikes give a mix of Sedona’s iconic rock formations, mesas, and scenic loops while keeping safety and short distances in mind, perfect for a relaxed 5-day trip.