Planning to hike Bell Rock in Sedona? My trail guide has got you covered with all the essential information you need, along with some savvy tips to make your trek as easy as possible.
Driving into Sedona, you can’t miss the iconic Bell Rock towering off the side of the road.
This majestic natural beauty is a must-visit landmark for anyone after an adventurel. But why just view it, when you can hike it?
If you’re up for a challenge, standing atop Bell Rock is one of the best things to do in Sedona. But if you prefer to keep your feet on the ground, there are some amazing trails around the base of Bell Rock to explore. Ready?
Hiking Sedona’s Bell Rock: In Detail
Let’s dive into everything you need to know before hiking Bell Rock, Sedona…
The Bell Rock Trailhead
First things first – you’ll need to find the Bell Rock Trailhead. This is your starting point, conveniently located on the south side of Highway 179. You can park at the Courthouse Vista parking lot with restrooms and a visitors’ centre.
To get there from Sedona, drive north on Highway 170 and look for the entrance to the Courthouse Vista parking lot, where you can park for any Bell Rock trails. Remember to bring cash for the parking fee ($5).
Top Tip: take advantage of the restrooms on site before you hit the trail. And make sure you have plenty of water.
The Bell Rock Pathway Trail
The Bell Rock Pathway Trail is a great route to start your journey. This 3.6-mile trail is the perfect way to soak up the incredible views of Bell Rock, Courthouse Butte and other breathtaking landmarks.
The trail is easy to moderate, but there are some steep hills and rough patches around Bell Rock. The trail has a wide, hard path for the most part, but you might encounter some rocky terrain along the way.
I suggest allowing between two and three hours to complete the trail, but it might vary depending on your pace and how often you stop to take in the scenery.
Top Tip: if you’re looking for a longer hike, you can combine the Bell Rock Pathway with other nearby trails, such as the Courthouse Butte Loop.
The Bell Rock Loop, Sedona
Consider the Bell Rock Loop trail if you have limited time in Sedona. Clocking in at around 2.2 miles, it’s not too long, but it’s not too short either – just the perfect length for a morning or afternoon workout.
The Bell Rock Loop is a moderate hike, which means it’s a fit for most hikers – no need to be a fitness fanatic or seasoned hiker to enjoy it. With an elevation gain of only about 230 feet, you’ll feel the burn in your calves, but it’s manageable.
This trail is also a great starting point for exploring the other trails in the area. Several other Bell Rock trails intersect with the loop trail, allowing you to customise your hike and explore different areas of the iconic red rocks.
The Bell Rock Summit
Now for the most exciting part, the summit at Bell Rock. Like I said, it’s not the most challenging of hikes, but don’t underestimate it; it requires a decent level of physical fitness.
As you make your way up, you’ll encounter many steep sections. Remember that what goes up must come down, and the descent can be even more challenging. So, only go as high as you feel comfortable, and don’t forget to save some energy for the way back down.
But once you reach the summit, the views are spectacular. You’ll feel like you’re on top of the world as you take in the breathtaking vistas of Sedona and beyond.
Practical Tips for Hiking Bell Rock, Sedona
- Check out my guide on the best time to visit Sedona to help you plan your hiking adventure.
- Grab a map at the trailhead or bring a GPS device to avoid getting lost in the maze of red rocks. See the map at the end of the post to give you an idea of the area.
- Wear comfortable hiking trainers or hiking boots with good grip since the trail can be rocky in some areas. Bring sun protection and a refillable water bottle.
