Broken Arrow Trail: Sedona’s Red-Rock Pulse
A compact, high-drama slice of Sedona—hike it, drive it, or see it from above.
The Jeep’s tires chew at red dust and the morning light carves the sandstone into fins and shadows. You climb a low ridge and the valley opens—a riot of rust and ochre stacked like a city of plateaus. Wind leans into you here; the rocks answer with centuries of quiet. This is Broken Arrow Trail, one of Sedona’s most immediate ways to feel the red-rock country under your boots or beneath the axle of a high-clearance vehicle.
Trail Wisdom
Hydrate before you feel thirsty
Bring at least 1 liter of water per hour of activity—desert sun can dehydrate you faster than you expect.
Wear sticky-soled shoes
Slickrock sections and loose gravel reward shoes with good traction—avoid flip-flops or thin-soled sandals.
Go early or late
Beat the heat and crowds by starting near sunrise or late afternoon for better light and quieter trails.
Respect designated tracks
If driving, stay on permitted roads—off-route travel damages cryptobiotic soil and desert vegetation.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Schnebly Hill viewpoint—less crowded and offers sweeping panoramas
- •Amitabha Stupa & Peace Park—a nearby quiet spot for reflection
Wildlife
mule deer, red-tailed hawk
Conservation Note
Stay on designated trails and roads; off-route driving and trampling cryptobiotic soils harms fragile desert ecosystems and increases erosion.
The region contains artifacts and ruins from the Sinagua culture (roughly 600–1400 CE), whose cliff dwellings are visible from air and in nearby canyons.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: wildflower displays, moderate temperatures, hiking and jeep tours
Challenges: sudden afternoon thunderstorms, crowds on weekends
Spring is colorful and comfortable—ideal for hiking and guided tours, but watch for brief storms that can slick slickrock.
summer
Best for: aerial tours for wide visibility, longer daylight hours, early-morning hikes
Challenges: intense heat, limited shade, higher dehydration risk
Summer heats up quickly; schedule activities for early morning and carry extra water and sun protection.
fall
Best for: crisp air and clear skies, photography, fewer crowds
Challenges: cooler nights, variable shoulder-season conditions
Fall is prime—milder temperatures and excellent light make hikes and flights especially rewarding.
winter
Best for: low visitor counts, clear visibility after storms, cool-weather hikes
Challenges: cold snaps and icy patches on shaded slickrock, shorter daylight
Winters are mild but can bring icy spots; layer up and plan for shorter outings during daylight hours.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Hiking boots with sticky rubberEssential
Provide traction on slickrock and uneven surfaces.
Hydration pack (2 L)Essential
Keeps water hands-free and ensures you carry enough for hot conditions.
Wide-brim hat and sunscreenEssential
Critical sun protection for exposed sections of the trail and jeep rides.
Light wind layer
Useful for changing temperatures, and for open-air jeep rides or helicopter flights.
Common Questions
How long is Broken Arrow Trail and how much elevation gain should I expect?
Expect roughly 3.3 miles round-trip with about 300–400 feet of cumulative elevation gain, depending on optional spurs like Chicken Point.
Can I drive a regular car on Broken Arrow?
No—Broken Arrow includes sections meant for high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicles; guided jeep tours use suitable vehicles and local knowledge.
Are dogs allowed on the trail?
Dogs are generally allowed but must be leashed; bring extra water and be mindful of hot rock surfaces that can burn paws.
Is a helicopter tour worth it?
Yes—helicopter tours reveal canyon structure, ancient ruins, and landscape scale that you can’t perceive from the trail alone; choose a longer flight for deeper canyon access.
Do I need a permit to hike or drive Broken Arrow?
No special permit is required for day hiking or joining a guided tour, but off-highway vehicles must stay on designated routes and follow Coconino National Forest regulations.
What wildlife might I see?
You may see mule deer, red-tailed hawks, and smaller desert residents like lizards and ground squirrels; javelina are present in the region but less common along busy trails.
What to Pack
Hiking boots, 2L hydration, wide-brim hat, layered wind jacket—footwear for traction, water for desert heat, sun protection, and a light layer for temperature shifts.
Did You Know
Broken Arrow Trail runs through Coconino National Forest and is one of the few designated routes near Sedona that permits high-clearance off-highway vehicles on specific roads.
Quick Travel Tips
1) Arrive early to secure parking and avoid crowds. 2) Confirm jeep tour vehicle requirements (clearance, seats). 3) Carry cash for local parking fees and tips. 4) Check weather—thunderstorms can make slickrock hazardous.
Local Flavor
Sedona blends Native American history, a lively arts scene, and southwest cuisine—look for local galleries along Highway 89A, Indigenous-owned craft shops, and restaurants serving prickly pear and Sonoran-inspired plates.
Logistics Snapshot
Distance: ~3.3 miles RT • Time: 2–3 hrs • Difficulty: Moderate • Permits: None for hiking • Vehicle: High-clearance 4x4 for off-road driving • Nearest town: Sedona (20–30 min)
Sustainability Note
Choose guided jeep tours that follow designated routes, avoid off-route driving, pack out all waste, and respect culturally sensitive sites to protect fragile soils and archaeological resources.