10 Best Sunrise Hikes in Sedona with Epic Views

Best Sunrise Hikes in Sedona

1. Doe Mountain Trail

The Doe Mountain Trail is one of my favorites – especially at sunrise!

As the sun rises, it bathes the red rocks in a golden glow, and if you’re lucky, you’ll spot hot air balloons floating in the distance.

This moderate hike leads to a flat-topped mesa with breathtaking panoramic views of Sedona’s red rock landscape.

The Doe Mountain Trailhead has a decent-sized lot with vault toilets.

🎟️ A Red Rock Pass is required to park at the Doe Mountain Trailhead!

✨ Read My Complete Doe Mountain Hiking Guide

2. Devil’s Bridge

Devil’s Bridge is Sedona’s largest natural sandstone arch, standing 54 feet tall with stunning red rock views!

Hiking to Devil’s Bridge at sunrise is the best way to experience this iconic Sedona landmark.

The early morning light illuminates the red rocks beautifully, and you’ll avoid the massive crowds that arrive later in the day.

Unlike late morning or afternoon visits, where long lines form for photos on the arch, a sunrise hike means you might share the view with just a few others – or, if you’re lucky, have it all to yourself for a short while.

Keep in mind that the arch may not fully light up immediately at sunrise, but the wait is worth it.

For a peaceful and breathtaking experience, I highly recommend watching sunrise from Devil’s Bridge!

The shortest route (2 miles roundtrip) starts at the Devil’s Bridge Trailhead, but you’ll need a high clearance 4×4 vehicle to get there.

Don’t have an off-road vehicle? That’s ok!

You can park at either the Dry Creek Vista Trailhead or the Mescal Trailhead instead.

🎟️ A Red Rock Pass is NOT required to park at either trailhead!

From the Dry Creek Vista Trailhead, hike via Chuckwagon Trail (6 miles roundtrip) or Dry Creek Road (4 miles roundtrip).

From the Mescal Trailhead, it’s 4 miles roundtrip via Mescal Trail and Chuckwagon Trail.

✨ Read My Complete Devil’s Bridge Hiking Guide

3. Airport Mesa Vortex

Airport Mesa Vortex (also known as the Airport Mesa Viewpoint) is a striking, flat-topped red rock formation that offers incredible 360-degree views.

It’s one of the famous vortex sites in Sedona that’s said to be a source of energy that provides spiritual healing.

There are two ways to reach the vortex site.

The trail stats above cover the most common route, as limited parking near the vortex site often requires visitors to park farther down the road and hike in.

The closer parking area, located right at the Airport Mesa Vortex, is free but extremely limited, with only 10 to 12 spaces, including one designated for disabled parking.

Most visitors opt to park at the larger Sedona Airport Overlook lot further up the road, which offers ample parking for $3 per vehicle.

From the larger parking lot, follow the Sedona View Trail (also known as the Airport View Trail) then hop onto the short but steep Summit Trail to reach the vortex site.

This iconic Sedona destination is popular for both sunrise and sunset, so expect to share the space with others.

It’s an incredible experience to watch the sunrise (or sunset) from this spot, and you might even feel a little energy from the vortex. 😉✨

4. Cathedral Rock

If you’re heading to Sedona, Arizona, don’t miss the Cathedral Rock hike!

This short but exciting trail features a fun rock scramble leading to one of Sedona’s most stunning viewpoints.

It’s also a vortex site, believed to promote healing and spiritual connection.

Sunset is popular, but sunrise is pure magic!

Fewer crowds, peaceful vibes, and the chance to watch the sun rise from the vortex spot.

My husband and I did this, and it was a highlight of our trip!

The main parking area for the Cathedral Rock hike is located at the Cathedral Rock Trailhead, located off Back O’ Beyond Road.

There are two parking lots side by side which can hold about 45 vehicles, and restrooms are located at the trailhead.

This trailhead parking area is open Mondays through Wednesdays and closed Thursdays through Sundays from 7 AM to 5:30 PM (use shuttle during closed times).

🎟️ A Red Rock Pass is required to park at the Cathedral Rock Trailhead!

✨ Read My Complete Cathedral Rock Hiking Guide

5. Soldier Pass Trail

The Soldier Pass Trail in Sedona, Arizona, is an excellent hike for beginners and families, featuring the Devils Kitchen Sinkhole, Seven Sacred Pools, and Soldier Pass Cave.

If you’re hiking this trail for sunrise, make a stop at the Seven Sacred Pools first.

With a bit of luck, you’ll catch a stunning reflection of the vibrant morning sky and Coffee Pot Rock in the water.

Then, continue to the cave, where the rising sun casts a brilliant orange glow inside, creating a truly magical sight.

The hike to the Seven Sacred Pools is 1.1 miles roundtrip with 95 feet of elevation gain.

This is a great option for families with young children or those wanting a shorter hike.

For those seeking a bit more adventure, a short side trail leads to the Soldier Pass Cave.

The Soldier Pass Trailhead is located at the end of Forest Service 9904 Road and has 14 parking spots and no trash or restroom facilities.

🎟️ A Red Rock Pass is NOT required to park at the Soldier Pass Trailhead.

The trailhead parking area has specific open and closed times:

• Open Monday to Wednesday (8 AM – 6 PM)
• Closed Thursday to Sunday (use the Sedona Shuttle these days)

✨ Read My Complete Soldier Pass Trail Hiking Guide

6. Subway Cave

The Subway Cave is one of the most popular hikes in Sedona, Arizona – and for good reason.

This cave is so unique and one of my favorite spots in Sedona!

Hiking to this cave for sunrise is such a good idea to avoid massive crowds.

Most people start this hike after sunrise, so expect to pass a lot of people hiking to the cave as you’re hiking back.

This hike begins from the Boynton Canyon Trailhead off Boynton Canyon Road.

🎟️ A Red Rock Pass is required to park at this trailhead!

The best lighting for pictures inside the Subway Cave occurs right after sunrise when the cave glows a stunning bright orange – this effect lasts for a few hours.

✨ Read My Complete Subway Cave Hiking Guide

7. Sugarloaf Mountain

The hike to Sugarloaf Mountain begins on Tea Cup Trail, then connects to the Sugar Loaf Loop before ascending to the summit for amazing 360-degree views.

The Sugarloaf Trailhead is located off Buena Vista Road and has a small parking area.

🎟️ A Red Rock Pass is NOT required to park at this trailhead!

If you’re only hiking to the summit and skipping the full loop, the roundtrip distance is about 1.6 miles.

When my husband and I hiked Sugarloaf Mountain for sunrise, we shared the summit with just two other people.

It was incredibly peaceful, and watching the red rocks glow as the sun rose was a breathtaking experience.

From the top, you’ll enjoy stunning views of Sedona’s red rock landscape, including Chimney Rock, Courthouse Butte, and Cathedral Rock in the far distance.

I haven’t experienced sunset at Sugarloaf Mountain, but I can imagine it’s just as magical!

If you’re searching for a lesser-crowded sunrise hike with spectacular views, Sugarloaf Mountain is a fantastic choice.

For those looking to explore beyond the summit, there’s a hidden cave near Sugarloaf Mountain called the Keyhole Cave.

It’s not too difficult to find, and I’ve put together a detailed guide on how to find the Keyhole Cave.

8. Bear Mountain Trail

Rising to 6,463 feet, Bear Mountain is the second-tallest peak and toughest hike in Sedona!

The strenuous 2.3-mile ascent climbs about 2,000 feet, with steep, rocky terrain and little shade.

The trail offers breathtaking views the entire way, showcasing Sedona’s iconic red rock formations and the distant San Francisco Peaks.

The Bear Mountain Trailhead offers a fairly spacious parking area with vault toilets.

🎟️ A Red Rock Pass is required to park at this trailhead!

The Bear Mountain Trail begins across the street from the parking lot.

This is a challenging climb, so be sure to start early if you want to catch sunrise from the top.

When we hiked it for sunrise, we didn’t quite reach the summit in time but instead watched the sun peek over the distant mountains and mesas from a false summit.

Keep in mind, you’ll encounter a few false summits along the way, but the true summit is marked by a “Trail End” sign.

The conditions at the summit were too hazy and harsh for great photos, but the hike itself and watching sunrise from the false summit was still incredible.

It’s definitely best to start before sunrise for the best experience!

✨ Read My Complete Bear Mountain Hiking Guide

9. Bell Rock Climb

The Bell Rock Trailhead is located at Courthouse Vista where there is a fairly big parking area with pit toilets.

🎟️ A Red Rock Pass is required to park at Courthouse Vista!

My husband and I haven’t hiked this trail at sunrise, but we visited a little after sunrise.

I can see how this spot would be incredible to watch sunrise.

It’s on our bucket list for next time!

The hike starts along the Bell Rock Trail and quickly merges onto the Bell Rock Climb section which is well-marked with signs and cairns.

The official trail ends on a rocky platform which is where you can relax and enjoy the sunrise.

10. Birthing Cave

Hidden in the breathtaking red rock formations of Sedona, the Birthing Cave is a true gem with both natural beauty and deep cultural significance.

It’s one of those “off-the-beaten-path” adventures that will leave you breathless.

This is a sacred spot so please be respectful when you visit and follow Leave No Trace principles!

The opening of the Birthing Cave faces east, so it’s the perfect spot to relax and watch the sunrise.

You can begin this hike from either the Long Canyon Trailhead (2 miles roundtrip) or the Mescal Trailhead (3 miles roundtrip).

🎟️ A Red Rock Pass is NOT required to park at either of the trailheads!

✨ Read My Complete Birthing Cave Hiking Guide

Sunrise Hikes in Sedona Map

Sedona Sunrise Time

Planning a sunrise hike can be challenging, especially if you’re aiming to reach a specific spot just in time for that golden hour glow.

Golden hour – the magical period just after sunrise – offers soft, warm light that’s perfect for photography.

To time it right, you’ll need to consider the length of your hike, how long it will take you to reach your destination, and most importantly, the exact time of sunrise.

For the most accurate sunrise times on your chosen date, check out this website – it provides a detailed chart to help you plan.

🌄 Below is a month-by-month breakdown of the average sunrise times throughout the year:

• January – 7:25 to 7:35 AM
• February – 7:05 to 7:25 AM
• March – 6:15 to 6:55 AM
• April – 5:40 to 6:10 AM
• May – 5:15 to 5:35 AM
• June – 5:15 AM
• July – 5:15 to 5:35 AM
• August – 5:35 to 6:00 AM
• September – 6:00 to 6:20 AM
• October – 6:25 to 6:45 AM
• November – 6:50 to 7:15 AM
• December – 7:20 to 7:35 AM

Sunrise Hikes in Sedona: Tips and What to Pack

1. Check Sunrise Time: Look up the exact sunrise time for your chosen date and plan your hike accordingly.

2. Check the Weather: While Sedona is generally dry, occasional storms, strong winds, or snowy/icy conditions can affect your hike.

3. Download Offline Maps: Most of the official trails are well-marked and easy to follow but the hikes that require following a social trail can be hard to navigate so having offline maps on your phone can be very helpful.

4. Start Hiking Early Enough: Know how long the hike is going to be and how long it’ll take you to reach the destination to catch sunrise in time.

5. Red Rock Pass Required: This pass is required for parking at several of the trailheads, or you can use an America the Beautiful Pass.

You can purchase one online or at the trailhead kiosk:

• $5 for a day
• $15 for a week
• $20 for an annual pass

Learn more about the Red Rock Pass Program HERE.

6. Be Careful Hiking in the Dark: Sedona’s rocky terrain can be uneven and slippery, especially in low light. Take your time, bring a headlamp, and consider using trekking poles.

7. Stick to the Most-used Social Trail: Some hikes require follow a social trail – try your best to follow the most-used path to minimize damage and avoid unnecessary erosion.

8. Capture the Moment: If you’re bringing a camera, adjust your settings for low light and take advantage of golden hour for stunning shots.

9. Respect the Ruins: Look, but don’t touch any ancient ruins and petroglyphs that you may come across. These are sacred and protected sites!

10. Keep Sedona Pristine for Future Generations: Take the Sedona Cares Pledge and follow Leave No Trace principles.

🎒 Sunrise Hike Packing List (includes emergency supplies just in case):

• Day pack
• Plenty of water and snacks
• Map, compass, GPS device
• Sturdy hiking boots or shoes with good traction
• Headlamp or flashlights (with extra batteries)
• Extra layers of clothing
• Hiking poles (optional – may be very beneficial on certain trails)
• First aid kit
• Sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, hat)
• Rain jacket/poncho and an emergency bivy sack
• Emergency fire starter
• Multi-tool/knife
• Camera 📸

Sedona Sunrise Hikes vs Sedona Sunset Hikes

Both sunrise and sunset hikes in Sedona offer breathtaking views, but each provides a unique experience.

Personally, I’m a sunrise girly. 🌄✨

There’s something special about the quiet solitude of the early morning and the feeling of starting the day with movement and adventure.

This may sound cheesy, but watching the sun slowly rise over the horizon is a humbling reminder to be grateful for another day.

It’s a peaceful, almost meditative experience that makes the early wake-up call completely worth it!

That said, if you’re more of a sunset hiker, I totally get it!

There’s nothing wrong with soaking in Sedona’s golden hour glow without having to roll out of bed at the booty crack of dawn. 🫠

So, let’s do a quick comparison just for fun.

If you’re planning a trip to Sedona and can’t decide which is right for you, this breakdown might help!

Sedona Sunrise Hikes

Sunrise hikes in Sedona are perfect for those who want more solitude – some trails may be slightly crowded at sunrise, but in my experience that’s rarely the case.

Depending on the trail length, you may start hiking in the dark, but as the sun begins to rise, the sky gradually fills with light.

Personally, I love this transition – I’d much rather begin in darkness knowing things will only get brighter than finish a sunset hike with the light fading into complete darkness.

Fun fact about me: I hate the dark. 👻

For about an hour after sunrise, known as golden hour, the soft golden light illuminates Sedona’s red rock formations beautifully, creating an ideal setting for photography.

Additionally, morning temperatures are cooler, which is especially beneficial during the warmer months.

However, hiking in the dark before sunrise requires extra preparation, including a reliable headlamp, layers of clothing, and awareness of wildlife that may be more active at dawn.

If you don’t mind waking up super early and prefer a peaceful, uncrowded experience, a sunrise hike might be the perfect fit for you!

Sedona Sunset Hikes

Sunset hikes, on the other hand, offer equally stunning views – but expect more crowds.

In my experience, Sedona’s trails tend to be busier at sunset as compared to sunrise.

Golden hour occurs an hour before sunset creating the perfect lighting for photography.

Keep in mind that depending on how far your hike is, you may be walking back in the dark.

Be sure to bring a headlamp and extra layers, as temperatures can drop quickly once the sun goes down.

If you prefer to soak in Sedona’s golden light without the early morning alarm, a sunset hike is a fantastic option.

🧡 Here’s a short list of the best sunset hikes in Sedona:

• Cathedral Rock (1.5 miles roundtrip)
• Airport Mesa Vortex (0.2 to 1.4 miles roundtrip)
• Doe Mountain (1.5 miles roundtrip)
• Bell Rock Climb (1.1 miles roundtrip)
• Munds Wagon Trail to Merry-Go-Round Rock (6.5 miles roundtrip)
• Sugarloaf Mountain (1.6 to 2 miles roundtrip)
• Red Rock Crossing from Crescent Moon Ranch (short walk)

Conclusion

Catching a sunrise in Sedona is an unforgettable experience, with the red rock formations glowing in the morning light and the desert landscape coming to life.

Whether you’re looking for an easy stroll to a breathtaking overlook or a challenging trek to a high vantage point, these 10 best sunrise hikes in Sedona offer some of the best views in the area.

No matter which hike you choose, be sure to set your alarm, pack plenty of water and snacks, and soak in the magic of Sedona’s red rock landscape at sunrise.

Always remember to follow Leave No Trace principles, respect Native American sites, and have patience and kindness towards others. 💛

If this guide inspires you to tackle the best sunrise hikes in Sedona, I’d love to hear about your adventure.

Leave a comment and share your experience!

✨ READ THIS: 10 Best Hikes in Sedona, Arizona