March 14, 2024
We love hiking … and we love waterfalls. And despite the arid landscape of the Red Rocks country around Sedona, it is possible to combine the two. Fuel up with a hearty, complimentary breakfast at Arabella, lace up your hiking boots, then set out for an adventure on one of these top Sedona hikes with waterfalls. Your clean, comfortable and spacious room will be waiting when you return!
Seven Sacred Pools
Just 2 miles from Sedona, this easy 1.1-mile out-and-back trail is an ideal early-morning or evening jaunt (you’ll avoid crowds at these times and have the serene pools mostly to yourself). After heavy rainfall, you’ll find a series of interconnected waterfalls that create seven pools of water. Depending on the rainfall, sometimes the pools flow into each other and sometimes they do not … but it’s always pretty. The pools are set within the larger Oak Creek Canyon region, one of the most scenic spots in Sedona and a popular sunset-viewing destination.
Slide Rock
If you’re seeking more bang for your buck, head to Slide Rock – 7 miles outside Sedona, but just 0.3 miles out and back. The moderately difficult trail gets you quickly to your destination: a fun natural water slide, where you can coast down the creek on rocks or take a refreshing wade through the shallow water. Like the Seven Sacred Pools, Slide Rock is also located in Oak Creek Canyon. (This is one of our favorite add-ons after a longer day hike in the area, when we want to cool off.)
Grasshopper Point Swimming & Picnic Area
Families love Grasshopper Point, just 2.5 miles from Sedona and an easy 1-mile out-and-back trail. With hiking, swimming, picnicking and more, the picturesque spot is fairly easily accessible and features a deep swimming hole and cliff jumping for the more adventurous in your crew.
West Fork of Oak Creek Trail
The perfect combo of hike and swim, the 6.5-mile out-and-back West Fork of Oak Creek Trail meaders along Oak Creek, crossing it 13 times. Cool your feet along the way or wait for the end at a deeper swimming hole. Photo opportunities abound between towering canyon walls as you trace the pleasant sandy trail.