Sedona Trail of the Week: Soldier Pass Trail

Outdoors | Lifestyle By Barbara Myers

There is something magnetic about Soldier Pass. Maybe it is the way the red rock glows after sunrise, or the echo of footsteps through canyons carved by time itself. Whatever it is, Soldier Pass remains one of Sedona’s most iconic hikes, blending geological drama, quiet forest stretches, and a hint of adventure for those who like to explore beyond the main path.

Trail Overview

Length: 3.0 miles with cave, 3.8 miles without, 4.5 miles total if you explore bothElevation Gain: 840 feetTime: 2 to 3 hours round tripDog-Friendly: Yes, leash requiredPass Required: Red Rock PassDifficulty: ModerateTrail Conditions: Well-marked, mix of rock and dirt, with steep sections near the cave

Devil’s Kitchen and the Seven Sacred Pools

Your adventure begins at the Soldier Pass Trailhead, where the desert air carries the scent of juniper and the crunch of sandstone underfoot. Within minutes, you reach Devil’s Kitchen, a gaping sinkhole formed by the collapse of underground caverns. Locals say you can sometimes hear the rocks shift, a haunting reminder of Sedona’s ever-changing landscape.

Continue another half mile to reach one of Sedona’s most photographed spots, the Seven Sacred Pools. These naturally carved basins collect rainwater in a stair-step pattern, each one reflecting the red cliffs beyond. After a storm, they shimmer like mirrors, making this a favorite stop for photographers and families alike.

The Cave and the Arch

For hikers craving a bit more challenge, look for the side trail to Soldier Pass Cave at the 1.2-mile mark. It is a short but steep 0.3-mile climb, about 300 feet of elevation gain, leading to one of Sedona’s most striking hidden gems. The cave sits high in the cliffs with a natural arch that frames panoramic views of the valley below.

Bring sturdy shoes, leave pets behind for this section, and take your time. This is a popular area and the rocks can be slippery. Once inside, you can look out across the sandstone layers or simply sit and listen to the echoes of hikers below. It is one of those quiet, unforgettable Sedona moments.

Continuing to the Pass

If you still have energy after exploring the cave, continue along Soldier Pass Trail to the top of the pass itself. The red rocks gradually give way to forested mesa views, and the crowds thin as you move farther from the trailhead. From this point, you can either retrace your steps or connect with Brins Mesa Trail for a longer, scenic loop that rewards you with wide open views of Sedona’s western canyons.

Barbara’s Notes

Go early to find parking and to enjoy the trail before it gets busy. Bring plenty of water, especially in summer months. The cave and pools are fragile, so leave no trace and respect the area. After a rain, the reflections in the Seven Sacred Pools are absolutely beautiful and worth the short walk even for beginners or families with small children.

Final Thoughts

Soldier Pass captures the true spirit of Sedona. It offers beauty, challenge, and wonder in equal measure. Whether you come for the geological marvels, the cave, or the peace of the desert air, this trail is one that stays with you long after you return home.

Pack water, take your time, and enjoy the journey. Soldier Pass is more than a hike. It is a small piece of Sedona’s soul.

See you on the trail. -Barbara

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