Snoopy Rock, Sedona: A Quick Hike with Monumental Views
Short scramble, long vistas: Sedona’s playful rock profile delivers big scenery in a small hike.
The sun has just crested the western shoulder of the Mogollon Rim and the red sandstone wakes like a slow, living ember. From the roadside pullout the outcrop known as Snoopy Rock sits against that light — a curving profile that, from one angle, seems to nap on its back like a cartoon dog whose head has been chiseled by wind and time. You can stand within arm’s reach of that silhouette in less than 30 minutes from the car, and yet the view makes you feel like you’ve walked into the heart of what people come to Sedona to see: broad desert sky, striated cliffs, and the hush that follows a good climb.
Trail Wisdom
Start at dawn or late afternoon
Temperature and crowds are kinder in the early morning and at sunset; the light also makes the red rocks glow.
Wear grippy shoes
Slickrock can be slippery—choose footwear with good traction and ankle support for short scrambles.
Carry water even for short walks
Desert air dries you faster than you think—1 liter per person is a good minimum for short outings.
Respect cultural sites and stay on rock
Avoid stepping on cryptobiotic soil and culturally sensitive areas; stay on obvious routes to protect the landscape.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Sunrise views from a nearby low bench that looks back at the city lights of Sedona.
- •A shaded cottonwood grove lower in the valley that’s great for a picnic after the short climb.
Wildlife
Mule deer, Red-tailed hawk
Conservation Note
Stay on established routes to protect fragile cryptobiotic soil and respect private property and cultural sites; pack out all trash.
The land around Snoopy Rock sits within the ancestral territories of the Yavapai and Apache peoples; later settlers and ranchers used the mesas and canyons as natural markers.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Wildflower blooms, Mild hiking temperatures, Photography with soft light
Challenges: Occasional pollen, Higher weekend crowds
Spring offers pleasant temperatures and wildflowers that pop against the red rock—early weekdays are best for quieter conditions.
summer
Best for: Early-morning hikes, Monsoon storm photography, Short, intensive visits
Challenges: High heat midday, Afternoon thunderstorms
Summer mornings are golden and cool; avoid midday heat and watch forecasts for monsoon storms that can arrive fast.
fall
Best for: Comfortable temps, Clear skies for long vistas, Reduced crowds
Challenges: Shorter daylight hours, Potential cooler nights
Fall is ideal—temperatures drop, skies clear, and the light is crisp, making for some of the best hiking conditions in Sedona.
winter
Best for: Crisp, clear views, Quiet trails, Low visitor numbers
Challenges: Cold mornings, Possible ice on shaded slickrock
Winter mornings can be icy on shaded ledges; dress warmly and time hikes for mid-morning when surfaces warm up.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Approach-style hiking shoesEssential
Offer traction on slickrock and stability for short scrambles.
1L water bottle or hydration bladderEssential
Keeps you hydrated in dry air—carry more in summer or if you plan additional hikes.
Sun hat and SPF sunscreenEssential
Desert sun is intense; protect skin and eyes during exposed sections.
Compact camera or smartphone with power bank
The viewpoint is photogenic—extra battery life helps you shoot golden hour without worry.
Common Questions
How long is the hike to Snoopy Rock?
Plan on about 0.6–0.8 miles round-trip depending on how far you explore the formation; most visitors take 20–45 minutes.
Is Snoopy Rock a difficult climb?
No technical climbing is required, but there are short scrambles and uneven sandstone; good footwear and steady footing are recommended.
Do I need a permit or pay a fee?
There is generally no fee for roadside access to Snoopy Rock, but parking is limited—some nearby scenic areas managed by the Forest Service may require a Red Rock Pass.
Can I bring my dog?
Dogs are often allowed on nearby trails but check local rules and keep pets leashed; slickrock and heat can be hard on paws.
When is the best time of day to visit?
Sunrise or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and the best light for photography; avoid midday heat in summer.
Is there parking and cell service?
There’s usually a small roadside pullout for parking; spaces are limited. Cell service can be spotty—download maps or take screenshots before you arrive.
What to Pack
Sturdy hiking shoes (traction for slickrock), 1L water (desert hydration), sun protection (hat + SPF), small first-aid kit (minor scrapes from sandstone)
Did You Know
Sedona’s red sandstone belongs to the Schnebly Hill Formation, a Permian-age unit that gives the region its distinctive color and was formed roughly 250–300 million years ago.
Quick Travel Tips
Arrive early to secure parking; download offline maps; carry water even for short hikes; wear shoes with good traction.
Local Flavor
Sedona blends Southwestern cuisine, local art galleries, and trail culture—try Navajo fry bread at a roadside vendor and stop into a small gallery for local stonework after your hike.
Logistics Snapshot
Distance: ~0.6–0.8 mi RT — Elevation gain: ~100–200 ft — Difficulty: Moderate short scramble — Fees: Typically none for roadside access — Parking: Limited pullouts — Dogs: Often allowed (leash)
Sustainability Note
Protect thin soils and plant life by staying on rock and durable surfaces; avoid climbing on marked cultural or archaeological sites and pack out all trash.