The Soldier Pass Trail in Sedona, Arizona, is an excellent hike for beginners and families, featuring remarkable landmarks like the Devils Kitchen Sinkhole and the Seven Sacred Pools. 😍
For those seeking a bit more adventure, a short detour leads to the Soldier Pass Cave – arguably the most breathtaking highlight of the trail.
Once considered a “hidden cave,” it’s surprisingly easy to find. However, reaching it requires a short but steep climb, making it a bit challenging.
No matter how far you go, you’ll be amazed by Sedona’s stunning red rock landscapes and unique geological wonders.
This guide covers everything you need to know to plan your hike, including the best time to visit, trail directions, parking and shuttle details, and how to find the Soldier Pass Cave. 🙌
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Soldier Pass Trail Stats and Map
Soldier Pass Trail Stats
Starting Point: Soldier Pass Trailhead
Length: 4.5 miles (3 miles if only going to the Soldier Pass Cave and back)
Elevation Gain: 860 feet
Difficulty: Moderately challenging
Hiking Time: 2.5 to 3.5 hours
Route Type: Out-and-back
Pet-friendly? Yes, must be on leash
Hike Features: Devils Kitchen Sinkhole, Seven Sacred Pools, Soldier Pass Cave
Soldier Pass Trail Map
Soldier Pass Trailhead and Shuttle
🅿️ Soldier Pass Trailhead
The Soldier Pass Trailhead is located at the end of Forest Service 9904 Road near a residential area.
The trailhead parking area only has 14 parking spots, there are no trash or restroom facilities and it’s not open 24 hours a day.
Soldier Pass Trailhead Open and Close Times:
- OPEN from 8 AM to 6 PM on Mondays through Wednesdays
- CLOSED Thursdays through Sundays
On the days the trailhead parking area is closed, people must take a free shuttle bus to reach the trailhead (more on this below).
It’s a bit inconvenient, but the weekend crowd is probably hectic, and the Soldier Pass Trailhead is located near a residential area.
This strategy of closing the trailhead parking area during peak days to control the chaos is probably a good thing.
🎟️ Red Rock Pass
Unlike other popular trails in the Sedona area, you do NOT need a Red Rock Pass to park at the Soldier Pass Trailhead.
However, I will explain more about this below, you DO need a Red Rock Pass if you park at the Jim Thompson Trailhead (also known as the Jordan Trailhead or Brins Mesa Trailhead).
Do you have an America the Beautiful Pass? You can use this at any of the trailheads that require a Red Rock Pass!
You can purchase a Red Rock Pass online in advance or at the self-pay kiosk at the trailhead.
The Red Rock Pass costs:
- $5 for a day
- $15 for a week
- $20 for an annual pass
Check out the official website for more information about the Red Rock Pass Program.
🚌 Soldier Pass Trail Shuttle
Like I mentioned above, the Soldier Pass Trailhead parking area is CLOSED on Thursdays through Sundays.
Thankfully, there is a free shuttle service that takes you from a designated park-and-ride location in central Sedona directly to the trailhead.
The park-and-ride location to catch the shuttle bus for the Soldier Pass Trailhead is at the Posse Grounds Park and Ride.
This service operates year-round from Thursday to Sunday, running from 7 AM to 5:30 PM.
Best of all, parking at the park-and-ride location is free, and no reservations are required for the shuttles. Find more information on shuttle schedules for Soldier Pass Trailhead HERE.
Soldier Pass Trail Alternate Starting Points
If the Soldier Pass Trailhead parking area is closed or full, there are other ways to start your hike!
Option #1 – Free Shuttle Bus
The shuttle bus runs year-round from Thursdays to Sundays from 7 AM to 5:30 PM.
To take the shuttle bus to the Soldier Pass Trailhead, simply park at the Posse Grounds Park and Ride location and wait for the next shuttle bus to arrive.
The shuttle bus will take you directly to the trailhead. Make sure you make it back before the final shuttle bus time or else you will have to walk back to the parking lot.
This leads us into option #2!
Option #2 – Walk from the Park and Ride Lot (adds 3 miles to the hike)
You can park at the Posse Grounds Park and Ride for free and walk to the Soldier Pass Trailhead.
It is about a 30 minutes’ walk (1.5 miles one-way) to reach the trailhead.
When we first hiked this trail, my husband and I ended up taking this route on the way back from the trailhead to the parking area because we didn’t want to wait 50 minutes for the next bus.
Option #3 – Jim Thompson Trailhead (adds 2 miles to the hike)
Another popular spot to start this hike is from the Jim Thompson Trailhead.
A few other trails also start here, which is why this trailhead location has other names, such as the Jordan Trailhead and the Brins Mesa Trailhead.
This parking area holds 50 vehicles and has restroom facilities.
You do need either a Red Rock Pass or an America the Beautiful Pass to park at this trailhead.
Starting here to reach the Soldier Pass Trail will add an extra 2 miles to your total hike.
Best Time to Hike the Soldier Pass Trail
The best times to hike the Soldier Pass Trail 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.
✨ READ THIS: 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. This hike is very popular year-round, but we were able to avoid huge crowds by hiking this trail in January and catching the first shuttle bus.
There was only one other person on the bus with us! The temperatures were very cold, but with proper layers, this hike is well worth doing during the winter to avoid crowds.
⚠️ If there’s snow or ice on the trail, exercise caution and use good judgment – slippery conditions can increase risk of injury!
🌷 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. However, it’s not impossible to plan a trip to Sedona in summer – just be smart!
🥵 Follow these tips to stay safe in the summer:
- Wear sun-protective clothing like a hat, sunglasses, and lightweight clothing and apply sunscreen
- Start early in the morning or later in the day to avoid peak heat
- Bring plenty of water – more than you think you’ll need
Soldier Pass Trail Directions
Soldier Pass Trail
From the Soldier Pass Trailhead, follow the Soldier Pass Trail.
In about 0.2 miles, you will reach a junction in the trail.
Take a right and you’ll see a sign pointing you towards the first unique geological feature.
Devils Kitchen Sinkhole
As you venture along the trail, you’ll soon encounter one of Sedona’s most captivating landmarks: Devils Kitchen Sinkhole.
This stunning natural formation is a testament to the forces of nature, having first emerged in the early 1880s when underground limestone caves gave way.
Over the years, the sinkhole has continued to evolve, with significant collapses occurring in 1989 and again in 1995.
While scientists anticipate that further collapses may occur in the future, the exact timing remains a mystery.
Take a moment to admire this magnificent geological wonder from a safe distance. It’s a breathtaking sight that beautifully showcases the power of nature!
Seven Sacred Pools
As you continue your hike along the Soldier Pass Trail, prepare to discover another remarkable landmark: the enchanting Seven Sacred Pools.
Just a short 0.6 miles from the trailhead, you’ll be treated to yet another stunning feature within this beautiful landscape!
The Seven Sacred Pools are a series of small, naturally carved basins in the sandstone, historically regarded as sacred by Native American tribes.
This picturesque spot is a favorite among photographers, especially after rainfall when the pools brim with water, cascading gracefully into one another.
In the background, the striking red rock formations known as Coffee Pot Rock adds to the scene’s beauty.
While the pools may dry up during the warmer months, making them a little less dramatic, they’re still worth seeing at least once.
Let’s continue along the Soldier Pass Trail toward the most thrilling part of our adventure!
Trail Junction
As the trail winds through a partially shaded area filled with Arizona Cypress, you’ll enjoy a refreshing change of scenery.
After another 0.6 miles, you’ll arrive at a junction.
We’ll explore both paths, but if you’re eager to see the Soldier Pass Cave first, go ahead and take a RIGHT!
Keep an eye out for a “National Forest Wilderness” sign on a tree to make sure you’re headed in the right direction.
The trail to the left at the junction is the main trail where the Soldier Pass Trail continues.
For now, let’s take a right at the junction along a spur trail towards the intriguing “hidden cave”.
Soldier Pass Cave
From the junction, it’s just a 0.5-mile hike to the Soldier Pass Cave but be prepared for a steep climb!
You’ll start by walking across a large plateau.
Just keep going straight and slightly to the left to stay on track.
Before long, you’ll spot two impressive arches, and the cave will be tucked away to the right of the far-right arch.
You probably won’t be alone, so listen for other visitors to help guide you!
Getting into the cave does involve some rock scrambling, but nothing too technical.
If you’re on the shorter side like me, it might take a little extra effort, but it’s definitely manageable!
If you have small children or pets, I do not recommend taking them into the cave.
The inside of the Soldier Pass Cave is one of the coolest things I have ever seen!
The cave is a fantastic spot to wander around, take photos, and soak in the unique geological features.
My husband and I spent a long time just relaxing and marveling at this incredible sight.
After you’ve had your fill of exploring the cave, take your time making your way out. It is a bit trickier to exit than it is to enter!
Follow the spur trail back to the junction in the trail. This time, take a right to continue along the Soldier Pass Trail.
Or, if you only wanted to see the cave, take a left at the junction to head back to the parking area.
Finish the Soldier Pass Hike
Did you take a right to finish out the Soldier Pass Trail? Ok, cool!
Continue for another 0.5 miles as you climb up onto a ridge with incredible views of the canyon.
You’ll eventually reach the Brins Mesa Trail – this is your turnaround point. Just retrace your steps to head back to the parking area.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can turn this into a slightly longer loop hike known as the Soldier Pass to Brins Mesa Loop.
On your way back, be sure to stick to the Soldier Pass TRAIL and avoid the Soldier Pass ROAD, which is meant for high clearance, 4×4 vehicles and Jeep Tours.
While some folks do hike along the road to get back, I wouldn’t recommend it.
Keep an eye out for signs to stay on the Soldier Pass Trail for a safer and more enjoyable hike!
Did you make it back? Congrats, you did it! 🥳
✨ READ THIS: Best Sunrise Hikes in Sedona with Epic Views
Soldier Pass Hike: Alternate Routes
Jordan Trail to Soldier Pass Trail (6.5 miles)
Trailhead Location: Jim Thompson Trailhead (also known as the Jordan Trailhead or Brins Mesa Trailhead).
This trailhead is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week so you can hike super early in the morning or later in the day which is perfect for avoiding big crowds.
The shuttle bus does NOT go to this trailhead, so plan to get there early or later in the day to snag a parking spot.
This parking area does hold 50 vehicles and has restroom facilities.
Length: 6.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 900 feet
Hiking Time: 3.5 to 4.5 hours
Route Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty Rating: Moderately challenging
Pet-friendly? Yes, must be on leash
Do I need a Red Rock Pass? Yes, if starting from the Jim Thompson Trailhead
Trail Directions: From the Jim Thompson Trailhead, follow the Cibola Pass Trail until you reach a junction in the trail.
Take a right to veer onto the Jordan Trail. Follow this trail until you reach the Devils Kitchen Sinkhole.
From here hop onto the Soldier Pass Trail and follow the directions as described above.
Soldier Pass to Brins Mesa Loop (6 miles)
Trailhead Location: Jim Thompson Trailhead (also known as the Jordan Trailhead or Brins Mesa Trailhead).
This trailhead is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week so you can hike super early in the morning or later in the day which is perfect for avoiding big crowds.
The shuttle bus does NOT go to this trailhead, so plan to get there early or later in the day to snag a parking spot.
This parking area does hold 50 vehicles and has restroom facilities.
Length: 6 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,100 feet.
Hiking Time: 3 to 5 hours
Route Type: Loop
Difficulty Rating: Moderately challenging
Pet-friendly? Yes, must be on leash
Do I need a Red Rock Pass? Yes, if starting from the Jim Thompson Trailhead
Trail Directions: Most people go clockwise, so this is how I will describe the route.
From the Jim Thompson Trailhead, follow the Cibola Pass Trail until you reach a junction in the trail.
Take a right to veer onto the Jordan Trail. Follow this trail until you reach the Devils Kitchen Sinkhole.
From here hop onto the Soldier Pass Trail and follow the directions as described above.
Once you reach the end of the Soldier Pass Trail, take a right at the junction to merge onto the Brins Mesa Trail.
Follow this trail to return back to the parking area.
Soldier Pass Road (drivable, 4×4 option)
Want a more-driving, less-hiking route?
Take your high clearance, 4×4 vehicle along the Soldier Pass Road to see all the incredible geological features that the Soldier Pass Trail has to offer.
Don’t have an appropriate vehicle?
You can either rent a vehicle or book a Jeep Tour!
⚠️ Be aware that motorized access beyond the Soldier Pass Trailhead requires a permit. Find more information and apply for a permit HERE.
Soldier Pass Road runs alongside the hiking trail, providing convenient access to both Devil’s Kitchen and the Seven Sacred Pools.
The road ends near the spur trail to Soldier Pass Cave, where you can park your vehicle and easily hike out to the cave.
This way, you can enjoy the highlights of the Soldier Pass Trail with minimal hiking effort!
✨ 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!
Tips for Hiking Soldier Pass Trail
1. Start Early: Beat the 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. Footwear and Gear: Some sections of this trail can be rocky, so wear comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes (or boots). And wear proper clothing for the season and bring layers just in case.
4. Keep Sedona Pristine for Future Generations: Take the Sedona Cares Pledge and follow Leave No Trace principles.
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
Soldier Pass Trail in Sedona offers an unforgettable blend of natural beauty, unique geological features, and rich historical significance.
From the stunning Seven Sacred Pools to the breathtaking Soldier Pass Cave, this trail is a must-visit for those seeking adventure and awe-inspiring landscapes.
As you explore this iconic trail, you’ll discover why Sedona’s trails are celebrated worldwide, leaving you with a deeper appreciation for the wonders of the American Southwest.
If this guide inspires you to hike the Soldier Pass Trail, I’d love to hear about your adventure. Leave a comment and share your experience!
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