Sterling Pass Trailhead
Hiking area · Coconino County ·

Sterling Pass Trailhead

Hiking area · Coconino County ·

Scenic hike to natural arch with shade and quiet trails

quiet
not crowded
moderate to hard
limited parking
lots of water
dog friendly
hidden gem
trees
Sterling Pass Trailhead by null
Sterling Pass Trailhead by null
Sterling Pass Trailhead by null
Sterling Pass Trailhead by null
Sterling Pass Trailhead by null
Sterling Pass Trailhead by null
Sterling Pass Trailhead by null
Sterling Pass Trailhead by null
Sterling Pass Trailhead by null
Sterling Pass Trailhead by null
Sterling Pass Trailhead by null
Sterling Pass Trailhead by null
Sterling Pass Trailhead by null
Sterling Pass Trailhead by null
Sterling Pass Trailhead by null
Sterling Pass Trailhead by null
Sterling Pass Trailhead by null
Sterling Pass Trailhead by null
Sterling Pass Trailhead by null
Sterling Pass Trailhead by null

Information

Sterling Pass Trail, Sedona, AZ 86336 Get directions

Information

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Sterling Pass Trail, Sedona, AZ 86336 Get directions

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Last updated

Jan 29, 2026

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15 Best Hiking Trails in Sedona, According to Locals

"A 4.1-mile out-and-back rated as hard due to a steep climb starting right from the trailhead off State Route 89A; the ascent is broken up by scenic overlooks and culminates at a secluded natural arch, offering the feel of hiking up and over a true mountain pass." - Evie Carrick Evie Carrick Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines

https://www.travelandleisure.com/best-sedona-hiking-trails-8402302
Sterling Pass Trailhead

Shalon J.

Google
This was a pretty cool trail! It can be on the hard side due to the consistent up-and-down throughout, but it’s very scenic and quiet. We went the day after Thanksgiving. We arrived around 11:00 a.m. and only encountered 4-5 people the entire time. It is very quiet and an ideal hike. I would highly recommend hiking if you’d like; it is a challenge and peaceful compared to the rest of Sedona. It took us about 5 hours to complete the round trip, including a lunch break at the top. We parked on the side of the road, right next to the trail. There were only two cars parked.

Emily Y.

Google
Not an easy trek! Up and down both ways. I went all the way to the arch. Had the whole thang to myself. Limited parking by trailhead (1/2 spots) or you can walk to the trailhead from the camping parking lot. Bring lots of water.

Liz M.

Google
It was an absolutely beautiful trail. Just in time to see the colors changing

Tatiana

Google
Wonderful, not crowded at all! Dog friendly!🐶 Beautiful hike with an average elevation gain of 1100 ft. My puppy and I made it through the mountain pass and to the arch within approximately 2.5 hours. The hike is not easy for kids for sure, moderate for adults, but most beautiful for all 😊 Please have lots of hydration and as always leave no trace ❤️

Felecity V.

Google
This was worth the hike. Beautiful. Not a popular spot which makes it so much better. We only passed a couple people hiking up a we hike back down. We went up to chieftains point. Ate a snack up there and headed back down. The best part is that it wasn't popular. It's hard to find the trail head. It's a short little sign and parking is just a pull off area.

DRAKSA

Google
This is a nice hidden gem in Sedona. We went on a Friday and there was literally no one on this trail. Which was fantastic. It's approximately 1.47 miles to the top with a 1000ft elevation game. Complete seclusion and peace and spectacular views.

Xplor F.

Google
Wow didn’t expect too much from this trail since it’s not very popular. But loved it! Not much parking. Maybe enuff for about 8 cars. I started at 7am and there was no one. You immediately start ascending for 1.3 miles. Then descend down the other side. Couple of awesome spots to chill and snack. Lots of trees and shade

Andrew J.

Google
Moderate to hard. Trees down over the path, loose stones, overgrown brush in places. Waist height pricker bush drew blood. Hiked to Vultee Arch and back from Manzanita campground. Few people, steep, quiet.