Hiking in Sedona: Seasons, Safety & Stewardship

An opportunity to connect with the land and protect it for future generations.

Sedona’s trails offer something special in every season—whether it’s the fresh bloom of spring wildflowers, the golden hues of fall, or the crisp air of a winter hike. No matter when you visit, hiking here is more than just a recreational activity.

Seasonal Hiking in Sedona

Each season brings unique conditions to Sedona’s trails:

Spring is a great time to hike in Sedona because of the mild weather and spring flowers and trees. Spring flowers start with the delicate pink and white bells on the Manzanitas in March and 89A is lined with ornamental flowering trees through town.

Summer months are June, July, August and September. The monsoon rains in July and August bring summer flowers which can be quite plentiful. Most hikers start as early in the day as possible and end before mid-day due to intense heat.

Fall colors come to Sedona in November and bring beautiful scenery and weather for hiking. The brilliant maple reds are seen in the canyons, but everywhere else there are various shades of yellow.

Winter snow makes hiking more treacherous, but very little snow falls in Sedona. People like to bring their dogs in the winter because the snakes are hibernating and the weather is cool.

Hiking trail in Sedona
Hiking trail in Sedona

Hiking Tips

Sedona is a hiking mecca. Here are some tips:

  • Dress for Success: Bring white or light colors to wear when it’s hot in Sedona. Black or dark clothing can significantly increase your body temperature even in mild Sedona temperatures.

  • Be Prepared: Always bring a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, hiking shoes/boots with nob soles (not new). Optional items include: vest (residents love vests and typically own many), fanny pack or small backpack, bug spray (not necessary except in some summer months after monsoon rains).

  • Quench Your Thirst: Always bring plenty of water, as the dry desert air will sap your body of moisture. Reusable containers are the best. Rest and rehydrate regularly.

  • Watch Your Step: Sedona trails are rocky, which makes them different from many trails in the world. Look down when hiking and stop to take in the scenery or photos. Consider taking at least one hiking pole, which helps you navigate through the rocks without falling.

  • Leave No Trace: Always pack out what you pack in. If you use a tissue, make sure it’s not going to blow into the bushes or on the ground. A great game to play for families or groups is who can find the most micro-trash. Sedona trails are not that trashy, but there can be a fair amount of micro-trash, so do your part and leave Sedona cleaner than you found it. Never, ever, leave graffiti.

  • Don’t Tread on Me: Please stay on the designated trails. Much of the soil in our area is ‘cryptobiotic’ which means it’s alive. If stepped on, it can take decades to regenerate.

  • Timing is Everything: During the monsoon rains, don’t get stuck hiking because dry washes can become fast flowing water. Watch the black clouds and return to the car if they are coming your way. Late December or January hiking can be icy on the trails. If you experience significant slippage, or if you’re simply too tired, turn around and go back.

  • Silence is Golden: Listen to the sounds of nature and allow others to do so too. And keep in mind that cell phone coverage is spotty. You may not be able to call out for help if you need it.

Hiking with Your Dog

Keep tails wagging and trails clean:

  • Know Where to Go: Dogs are welcome on Sedona Red Rock District Trail System trails but may not be allowed on state park or private trails. Always check regulations before heading out.

  • Pack It Out: Dog waste is harmful to the environment, contributing to pathogen contamination in Oak Creek, where people swim. Many assume it’s “natural,” but unlike wildlife, dogs eat processed food, making their waste a pollutant. Pack it out in a container to avoid odor or bury it properly. Don’t leave it behind for others to step in.

  • Wild vs. Domestic: Visitors often mistake wild animal waste for dog waste. Javelina scat typically contains berries, while coyote scat often has white fur. Wildlife waste decomposes naturally, unlike pet waste, which disrupts the ecosystem.

  • Keep Your Dog Hydrated: Sedona’s dry climate dehydrates dogs faster than you think. Unlike humans, dogs can’t tell you when they’re overheating. Signs of dehydration include stumbling, a wobbly walk, and dry gums. If you notice these, your dog is in danger—carry them back immediately.

  • Best Time to Hike with Dogs: Avoid bringing dogs in June, July, and August, when temperatures often exceed 100°F. The safest months for hiking with your dog are November through March, when conditions are cooler.

  • Plan Ahead, Hike Smart: Sedona’s trails are beautiful but demanding, especially for pets. Be prepared, carry water, and always prioritize your dog’s safety on the trail.