Keyhole Cave is one of Sedona’s largest and unique caves! Located off the Teacup Trail in the northwestern part of Sedona, the cave isn’t too hard to spot once you know what to look for. 🤩
It’s visible from the trailhead and even more prominent from the top of Sugarloaf Mountain. However, reaching it requires navigating an unmarked and unmaintained social trail.
While it can be tricky to stay on the main path, simply heading in the cave’s direction will keep you on track.
Most of the hike is relatively easy, with a gradual ascent, but the final 0.2 miles become much steeper, requiring some rock scrambling. The biggest challenge is the final climb into the cave itself, which requires good climbing skills.
From the inside you’ll have a unique view of the cave’s opening and breathtaking views of the red rock country. Even making it to the base of the cave is an achievement and rewards you with incredible views!
Unlike Sedona’s more popular caves, Keyhole Cave remains relatively quiet, making it the perfect escape for those seeking solitude and adventure.
Researching a trail before heading out is always important – especially when exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations like Keyhole Cave.
This guide has everything you need to navigate the hike safely and make the most of your adventure to one of Sedona’s hidden gems! 🙌
Affiliate Disclaimer: Some links on this page may be affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Thanks for supporting the blog! 🫶
Keyhole Cave Trail Stats and Map
Keyhole Cave Trail Stats
Starting Point: Sugarloaf Trailhead
Length: 2 miles
Elevation Gain: 550 feet
Difficulty: The hike is moderate but the climb into the cave is challenging
Hiking Time: 1 to 1.5 hours
Route Type: Out-and-back
Pet-friendly? Yes, must be on leash (if your pet doesn’t hike with you often, don’t bring them on this trail)
Hike Features: Keyhole Cave and stunning views of Sedona’s red rock country
Keyhole Cave Sedona Map
Keyhole Cave Parking and Trailheads
Sugarloaf Trailhead (main starting point)
The hike to the Keyhole Cave starts at the Sugarloaf Trailhead, located in a residential area.
The parking lot is small, with only about 12 spots.
Arrive early to snag a parking spot!
🎟️ Red Rock Pass is NOT required at this trailhead.
Andante Trailhead (alternate starting point)
If the parking lot at the Sugarloaf Trailhead is full, consider parking at the Andante Trailhead – starting from here will be about a 3-mile roundtrip hike.
🎟️ Red Rock Pass is NOT required at this trailhead.
Soldiers Pass Trailhead (alternate starting point)
Another option is to start from the Soldiers Pass Trailhead and hop onto the Teacup Trail to reach the cave’s social trail – starting from here will be about a 4.6-mile roundtrip hike.
🎟️ Red Rock Pass is NOT required at this trailhead.
You may have to take the Sedona Shuttle to reach the Soldiers Pass Trailhead – depending on the day of the week.
Best Time to Hike Keyhole Cave in Sedona
The best times to hike to the Keyhole Cave are typically in the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). During these months, the weather is usually perfect for hiking and other outdoor activities.
This is also peak season for Sedona so expect busy trails – hiking early or later in the day will help avoid crowds.
✨ READ THIS: 10 Best Hikes in Sedona, Arizona
🍂 Fall (September – November): This is a popular time to visit Sedona due to ideal weather conditions making it perfect for outdoor adventures.
❄️ Winter (December – February): This season is probably my favorite time to explore Sedona because the crowd-level is at its lowest.
My husband and I have spent two weeks exploring Sedona in January, and almost every day we started our hikes before sunrise. The temperatures were FREEZING! But with proper layers we were comfortable.
If you are lucky, you’ll be rewarded with the stunning sight of Sedona blanketed in snow. We have yet to witness this, but hopefully one day!
🌷 Spring (March – May): This season offers pleasant temperatures and beautiful desert blooms, but trails will be busy as it’s a popular time to visit Sedona.
☀️ Summer (June – August): Visiting Sedona in the summer is not recommended due to extreme heat.
Many of the trails are exposed, and when combined with a challenging hike it can quickly lead to dehydration and heat-related illness.
If you do attempt to hike to the Keyhole Cave in summer, start at sunrise, bring plenty of water, and wear sun-protective clothing.
✨ READ THIS: Best Sunrise Hikes in Sedona with Epic Views
How to Get to the Keyhole Cave: Trail Directions
Teacup Trail
The hike starts at the Sugarloaf Trailhead, where you can spot Keyhole Cave from the start.
Once you know what to look for, navigating becomes much easier.
Follow the Teacup Trail for about 0.3 miles until you reach the Teacup/Thunder Mountain junction.
Keyhole Cave Trail (social trail)
At the Teacup/Thunder Mountain junction, look for an unmarked social trail behind the sign.
While this trail isn’t maintained, steady foot traffic has made the path to Keyhole Cave relatively easy to follow, despite the presence of multiple side trails.
Fortunately, most of these lead in the same direction. However, it’s important to stay on the most-used social trail to avoid creating new trails and further damaging the ecosystem.
To stay on track, download the AllTrails offline map.
Follow the social trail for about 0.7 miles until you reach the cave. It’s a gradual, easy ascent most of the time until the last little bit before reaching Keyhole Cave.
The final 0.2 miles is where the challenge begins, with a steep 300-foot climb over rocky terrain that requires some rock scrambling. Hiking poles can be helpful for extra stability on this section!
Keyhole Cave
You made it to the base of the cave!
Take a much-needed break and enjoy the views.
If you have good climbing skills and feeling confident, try to make your way further into the cave.
Climbing inside Keyhole Cave
The route into the upper level of the Keyhole Cave requires a 30-foot class III climb.
There are two main routes up – some hikers go left, while others prefer the right. Most recommend climbing to the right, which is the route we took as well.
Whichever path you choose, grippy shoes and solid climbing skills are essential.
Keep in mind, climbing up is easier than coming down.
Once you make it inside, enjoy the views and the unique opening of the cave!
Return to the Trailhead
When coming down, take your time and be extra careful. I made an oopsies and wore my worn-down trail runners and slipped quite a bit – learn from my mistake and wear shoes with good traction!
To return to the trailhead, retrace your steps. You may need to use your offline maps to help navigate back without getting too off track.
Congrats, you did it! 🥳
✨ Discover more great hikes in Sedona, Arizona!
- Devil’s Bridge – Tackle this short yet exciting hike to the largest natural sandstone arch in Sedona! The panoramic views from the top will leave you speechless. And don’t forget to walk across the bridge – if you dare!
- Cathedral Rock – This is a short but steep hike to one of the most magical spots in Sedona. Also, it’s an incredible spot to watch the sunset!
- Subway Cave – Take a short detour off the Boynton Canyon Trail to explore one of Sedona’s most popular caves. This adventure offers stunning red rock views, a fun scramble, and a touch of history with ancient Sinagua ruins.
- Birthing Cave – Hike a short distance to a uniquely shaped cave. This spot has a blend of natural beauty and profound cultural significance!
- Soldier Pass Trail – This trail is perfect for families and beginners plus it’s pet-friendly! You’ll encounter remarkable features like Devils Kitchen Sinkhole, the Seven Sacred Pools, and the intriguing Soldier Pass Cave.
- Fay Canyon Arch – The Fay Canyon Trail is a true gem in Sedona, perfect for those seeking a short, scenic hike. The true highlight is the Fay Canyon Arch, a natural arch-shaped rock formation hidden along a side trail.
- Doe Mountain – This is a short, scenic hike to stunning views that are even more spectacular at sunrise – plus there’s a chance to see hot air balloons!
- Bear Mountain – This is Sedona’s toughest hike, with nearly 2,000 feet of steep elevation gain in just 2.3 miles. The trail offers breathtaking views throughout, showcasing Sedona’s iconic red rock formations and the distant San Francisco Peaks.
- Keyhole Cave – Tackle this off-the-beaten-path hike to one of Sedona’s largest caves, offering an adventurous challenge for experienced hikers.
- Wilson Mountain – If you’re up for a challenging climb with unmatched scenery and fewer crowds, tackle this hike to the tallest peak in Sedona!
Keyhole Cave Hiking Tips
1. Start Early: Avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures by starting your hike early in the morning, especially during peak season.
2. Bring Plenty of Water and Snacks: Carry plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially in the summer. Also, bring high-energy snacks to refuel and help maintain your energy during the hike.
3. Keep Sedona Pristine for Future Generations: Take the Sedona Cares Pledge and follow Leave No Trace principles.
4. Follow the Most-used Social Trail and Avoid Creating New Ones: Social trails are common in Sedona, and many hikes involve following these unmarked paths. Whenever possible, stick to the most-used trail.
Sometimes you might find multiple side trails branching off, so it can be tricky to stay on track. Try your best to avoid creating new social trails, as they contribute to erosion and damage the fragile desert ecosystem.
5. Summer Safety Tips:
- Take frequent breaks in shaded areas.
- Be sure to bring plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- Eat high-carb and salty snacks to help keep your energy levels up and replenish electrolytes.
- Wear lightweight, breathable clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
- Try to hike during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon.
Hiking in Sedona Packing List
👚 Layers of Clothing (top) – Pack a moisture-wicking base layer, a fleece mid-layer, an insulated jacket, and an outer shell to protect you from the elements, such as rain and wind. You may not need all these layers, especially in the summer months, but it’s always best to be over-prepared!
Check out my favorite tops 👇
- Base layer: REI Co-op Sahara Shade Hoodie (warm/mild conditions) and REI Co-op Midweight Long-Sleeve Base Layer (cooler conditions)
- Fleece mid layer: Cotopaxi Teca Fleece Full-Zip Jacket
- Down mid layer: Cotopaxi Fuego Hooded Down Jacket
- Outer shell: In the summer I always pack a light windbreaker, such as the Cotopaxi Teca Crop Windbreaker or the RevolutionRace Unit Light Windbreaker. If cold, windy, and rainy conditions are in the forecast (or there’s a slight possibility), I make sure to pack my Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket.
🩳 Hiking Shorts or Pants – Pack a comfortable, durable, and stretchy pair of hiking shorts or pants. Also think about what conditions you might run into, such as warm or cold temperatures, wind and/or rain, bugs, and overgrown trails.
Check out my favorite hiking bottoms 👇
- Cotopaxi Losdos Zip-Off Pants
- RevolutionRace Breezy Ankle Outdoor Pants
- Baleaf Fleece-Lined Jogger Pants
- RevolutionRace Summit Pocket Tights
- Revolution Race Hike & Dive Shorts
🥾 Hiking Footwear – Bring a good pair of hiking boots or shoes with good traction. If I’m not expecting to hike in too much mud or snow, my go-to hiking shoes are the Altra Lone Peak trail runners. They have a wide-toe box, 0 mm heel-to-toe drop, and MaxTrac rubber outsole. Plus, they’re lightweight and so comfy!
🧦 Socks – Moisture-wicking, quick-drying socks are the way to go. My favorite pair of hiking socks are Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Socks. Always pack an extra pair!
🎒 Day Pack – What you plan to do (sightseeing, hiking, etc.), determines what size pack you’ll need. Here is what I typically bring based on what I’m doing that day 👇
- Short walks and sightseeing: Cotopaxi Kapai 1.5L Del Dia Hip Pack
- Short, easy to moderate day hikes: REI Co-op Flash 22L Pack
- Long, moderate to challenging day hikes: REI Co-op Trail 25L Pack or Cotopaxi Luzon Del Dia 24L Pack
🥢 Trekking Poles – Essential for stability, balance, and support when hiking trails, especially on tough, rocky, and uneven terrain. I use REI Co-op Trailmade Trekking Poles and love them!
❄️ Microspikes – Bring a pair of microspikes if you’re visiting in the winter and you’re planning to hike along icy trails. They will give you good traction to avoid slipping! I use Black Diamond Access Spike Traction Device.
🦟 Mosquito/Bug Repellants – In the warmer months, be prepared for annoying gnats, mosquitoes, and flies. Wear long-sleeve clothing, a head net, and use bug spray.
🧤 Extra Warm Layers – If you expect cooler conditions or hiking to higher elevations, make sure to pack extra layers for added warmth, such as gloves, beanie, neck gaiter, and a light jacket.
🗺️ Navigation – Carry a physical topographic map, compass, a satellite messenger (or personal locator beacon), and download offline maps to help you stay on course, find your way in unfamiliar terrain, and call for help if needed.
🔦 Headlamp/Flashlight – A reliable light source with extra batteries, in case you end up hiking in the dark or need it for emergency situations.
💧 Water – Water bottles to carry sufficient water to stay hydrated, along with a filtration system or purification tablets if you plan to refill from natural sources.
🍕 Food – Energy-rich snacks or meals to keep your energy levels up during the hike.
😎 Sun Protection – Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sunhat to protect yourself from harmful UV rays, even when it’s cloudy. Also, polarized sunglasses are important when it’s bright outside and to reduce glare from reflective surfaces like water, snow, and roads.
🩹 First-Aid Kit – A basic first-aid kit with items like bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, and any personal medications you may need.
🥶 Emergency Shelter – Pack an emergency bivy sack or space blanket for shelter in case of sudden weather changes.
🔥 Fire – A lighter, matches, or fire starter to help you build a fire for warmth or signaling in case of emergency. Along with matches, I also carry a multi-tool carabiner that has a fire starter, utility blade, screwdriver, and bottle opener.
🗡️ Multi-Tool and Repair Kit – A versatile tool/knife and repair kit to handle any task, from preparing food to making repairs.
💩 Waste Disposal Supplies – WAG bags, trowel, toilet paper, pee cloth, wipes, Ziploc bags – be sure to pack out everything!
Conclusion
Hiking to the Keyhole Cave in Sedona is an exciting adventure that rewards hikers with stunning views and a sense of accomplishment.
While the route requires navigating an unmarked social trail, some steep climbing, and a bit of rock scrambling, the journey is well worth the effort.
Whether you admire the cave from below or take on the challenge of climbing inside, this hidden gem offers a thrilling escape from Sedona’s busier trails.
Stay safe, wear grippy shoes, and always practice Leave No Trace principles to help preserve this incredible spot for future adventurers.
If this guide inspires you to hike to the Keyhole Cave in Sedona, I’d love to hear about your adventure. Leave a comment and share your experience!
Enjoyed this post? Pin for later!
