Exploring the red rocks of Sedona is a fun and beautiful experience that created unforgettable memories for our family. While it can be daunting to take your little ones out hiking, I’ve made a list of our favorite family friendly hikes in Sedona to hopefully take some of the stress off and help you enjoy the majestic red rock! 

Join as we dive into the wonders of Sedona, exploring a collection of trails that cater to families seeking both accessible trails and the natural beauty of the towering red cliffs. Remember that parking lots fill up so get out there early to beat the heat and the crowds.   

1. Devil’s Bridge Trail

One of the most famous hikes in Sedona, Devil’s Bridge is a natural arch creating a bridge between two rock formations in the beautiful red rock country of Sedona, Arizona. You have the opportunity to walk across the bridge when you get there, giving you a unique perspective of the landscape from the elevated vantage point. The sensation of standing on top of the bridge is awe inspiring and gave us an unforgettable experience. It is a fairly long hike for little ones, about 4 miles round trip so visiting Devil’s Bridge is best for kids that are a little bit older that you’re comfortable walking this length with. I should also point out that since it’s so popular, you will probably find a bit of a crowd and a line waiting for fellow hikers to get their chance to walk along the bridge.

2. Fay Canyon Trail

Nestled into the red rocks, Fay Canyon Trail is a relatively easy trail known for its accessibility to hikers of all ages. During the hike, the towering red rocks surround you on each side, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere. There is a gentle slope and the path is well defined making it perfect for children. Winding through a narrow canyon, you will be able to see wildflowers, shrubs, and cacti along the trail. At the end of the Fay Canyon Trail, you will find a natural arch which has proven to be a spot that children love to explore and learn about the geographical process that created these wonders. The simple trail is about 2 miles round trip making it a great choice for families with young kids. 

3. West Fork Trail

West Fork Trail is a picturesque and family friendly trail meandering through the banks of Oak Creek through a stunning canyon. With vibrant cliffs with shades of reds, oranges, and browns, the path gently winds though a beautiful forest of oak trees, providing ample shade and a cool temperature. You’ll find yourself crossing the creek multiple times stepping over stones and wooden bridges adding an element of excitement and causing a sea of giggle fits from your kiddos. The trail is relatively flat and you have the choice to tailor the length to the needs of your family. As you are just exploring along the river, there isn’t a highlight at the end of the trail that you’re hiking to. The full length of the trail is about 6.5 miles there and back, but you can choose to turn around at any point. 

4. Bell Rock Pathway Trail

Showcasing the iconic red rock formations, Bell Rock Pathway Trail is a scenic hike with breathtaking views of Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte, the two focal standpoints of the trail. There are multiple trail options along the Bell Rock Pathway, letting you choose the length that is suitable for your family. Along the trail, kids can explore and climb on top of the rock formations, scrambling over the red rocks and feeling the unique texture of the sandstone. 

5. Baldwin Trail

Welcoming you with the sight of the towering cliffs, Baldwin Trail is an easy, flat trail perfect for all ages to explore. Your little ones can observe fascinating rock formations, intriguing geological features, and the vibrant colors of Sedona. Many parents like taking children who show interest in geography on this trail because there are educational signposts throughout providing information about the local flora and fauna and geography of the area. Children tend to love engaging with these displays, making this hike not only an adventure but also an educational experience enhancing their understanding of the environment. The length of Baldwin Trail is a little over 3 miles roundtrip, making it manageable for families with young children. 

After each hike, we couldn’t wait to return to the hotel and unwind with a dip in the beautiful pool, which felt like a hidden oasis tucked right at the base of Sedona’s majestic red rocks. The contrast of cool water and warm desert views was the perfect reward after a day on the trails.

We stayed at Enchantment Resort, and it truly lived up to its name. Nestled in the heart of Boynton Canyon, the resort offered the ideal balance of outdoor adventure and total relaxation. Surrounded by stunning rock formations and serene desert landscapes, it felt like we were worlds away. Whether we were sipping drinks by the pool, watching the sun cast over the canyon walls, or just enjoying the quiet moments on our patio, Enchantment was the perfect home base for exploring Sedona as a family.

Check out our trip to Sedona HERE.  We cannot wait to go back! 

Please keep me posted on which hikes are your favorite.  I would love to hear from you!