What’s the most bang for your buck area to explore in Sedona if you only had an hour?
Bell Rock is in Munds Mountain Wilderness, just a 15 to 20 minute drive from Sedona’s main street. This area is a perfect choice for hikers, travelers, and nature lovers visiting Arizona. Here’s why:
Reasons to Visit Bell Rock Trail
360 Degree Red Rock Views
Bell Rock is one of the most popular and iconic red rock formations of Sedona. Its dome shape connects back very well to its name. Hiking anywhere in this area allows access to 360 degree views of the red, orange, and green hues painting the landscape all around you. Wedding photographers with outdoorsy couples like to use this location for that very reason.
Short and Highly Accessible
The trail can either be an out and back route from the parking area to the rock ridgeline (~0.8 mi). Or it can be a loop trail around Bell Rock (1-1.5 mi). Either route is relatively short and highly accessible for all levels of hikers. Keep in mind there is little to no shade in this area and the Arizona sun can be unforgiving.
Access to Connecting Trails for More Explorations
Once at Bell Rock’s parking area, you have access to several connecting trails you can explore. You may choose to walk out to Bell Rock and back. Or you can connect several routes around Bell Rock to make a loop trail. This involves hiking the Bell Rock Pathway Trail, the Rector Connector, and the Courthouse Butte Trail (just under 2 miles).
You can continue exploring by taking the Courthouse Butte Trail around that red rock formation, or taking the longer Big Park Loop Trail. You could also take the Little Horse Trail north to the Chapel of the Holy Cross or Chicken Point Overlook! There really is no shortage of options if you’d like to get some more mileage.
It’s an Energy Vortex Hike
Bell Rock is one of Sedona’s famed energy vortexes, which makes it a perfect spot for meditation, yoga, and mindfulness. Known as a powerful upflow area (or an electric/masculine area), those seeking a higher spiritual energy are drawn to Bell Rock vortex hike. While exploring here, you are bound to see some people meditating and embracing this energy vortex.
Learn more about other spiritual sites in Sedona by reading this post on Boynton Canyon Vortex.
Opportunity for Rock Climbing
While climbing up Bell Rock is not necessary to get amazing views, it’s an adventure some hikers would never pass up. There are basket cairns along the ridgeline that will help guide you to the best route for ascending Bell Rock. You may choose to climb up a bit to one of the first several plateaus and take in the change of view from these vantage points.
At a certain point, there is no defined route. You must be extremely careful as some parts are very challenging and slippery. You have to rely on the wear of previous climbers on the sandstone rock to guide your way (if you so choose). Keep in mind, the higher you go, the harder the wind will blow all around you.
Other Things to Note About Bell Rock Trail
- While on the west side of Bell Rock, the trail runs parallel to the highway. Unfortunately, you can hear traffic while walking along this part for about a half mile.
- Bikers also use this trail, so be cautious and keep your ears and eyes open.
- There are two parking lots (a north and south) that provide access to Bell Rock Trail.
- Parking may fill up quickly since this is a busy area. However, due to the trail’s short length, spots usually open up fairly quickly. There is a $5 cost to park.
- Wear sunscreen and/or dress in long layers for sun protection.
- Vault toilets are by the trailhead!
