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Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness wilderness guide
Wilderness Area · AZ

Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness

Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness is a stunning wilderness area in Arizona known for its vibrant red rock formations, scenic vistas, and diverse ecological landscapes.

Wilderness Area47,1944+ Trails

Designation

Wilderness Area

Total Wilderness Area

47,194

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness

Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness is a stunning wilderness area in Arizona known for its vibrant red rock formations, scenic vistas, and diverse ecological landscapes.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Located in the Coconino National Forest, Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness spans over 47,000 acres of Arizona's breathtaking red rock country. This rugged and remote wilderness is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a mix of high desert plateaus and deep canyons, punctuated by the stunning red and orange-hued sandstone formations for which it is famous. The area is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, adapted to the distinct geographical layout and climate of the region. Historically, the land has connections to indigenous cultures, with distinct rock art and archaeological sites adding depth to its natural beauty. Visitors to the wilderness can engage in numerous recreational activities, including hiking, primitive camping, and wildlife viewing, while enjoying iconic vistas like the view from Devil's Bridge, one of the area's natural sandstone arches. Its isolation and challenging terrain make it a unique destination for adventurous visitors seeking solitude and the raw splendor of the American Southwest.

Field Guide · Wilderness Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Discovering the Subway Cave in Sedona★ 8.2⌖ 1 miHiking
Subway Cave

Discovering the Subway Cave in Sedona

Explore the moderate 6.1-mile round-trip trail to the Subway Cave near Sedona, AZ. Known for its stunning rock formations and breathtaking views, this hike offers a unique photography experience in the Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness.

Exploring Boynton Pass Vortex in Sedona★ 7.8⌖ 2 miHiking
Boynton Vortex Trail

Exploring Boynton Pass Vortex in Sedona

Explore Boynton Pass Vortex via the Boynton Canyon Trail, a 6.1-mile moderate hike near Sedona, AZ. Known for its spiritual energy and red rock views, it's popular for meditation and photography. Best year-round, but quieter on weekdays.

Hiking Fay Canyon Trail in Sedona★ 7.5⌖ 2 miHiking
Fay Canyon Trail

Hiking Fay Canyon Trail in Sedona

Explore the 2.4-mile Fay Canyon Trail near Sedona, Arizona. This easy trail offers stunning views and a hidden arch. Perfect for families and photographers, it can be busy in spring and fall when the wildflowers bloom and temperatures are mild.

Fay Canyon Arch: Sedona's Hidden Rock Marvel★ 8.5⌖ 2 miHiking
Fay Canyon Arch

Fay Canyon Arch: Sedona's Hidden Rock Marvel

Explore this 2.4-mile out-and-back trail near Sedona, Arizona. This easy hike leads to Fay Canyon Arch and offers views of red rock formations. A peaceful spot for bird watching and photography with desert flora along the way.

Exploring the Birthing Cave in Sedona★ 7.8⌖ 2 miHiking
Birthing Cave

Exploring the Birthing Cave in Sedona

Explore the Birthing Cave in Sedona, Arizona, on this 2-mile round-trip hike. With moderate difficulty, it offers breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere. Perfect for hiking, photography, and quiet reflection. Visit in spring or fall for the best experience.

Hiking the Boynton Canyon Trail in Sedona★ 8.3⌖ 2 miHiking
Boynton Canyon Trail

Hiking the Boynton Canyon Trail in Sedona

Explore the 6.1-mile Boynton Canyon Trail in Sedona, AZ. Known for its moderate difficulty and stunning red rock and forested scenes, this trail is a delight for adventure seekers. A visit to an energy vortex adds a unique touch to your hike.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Devil's Bridge, the largest natural sandstone arch in the Sedona area.✦ The diverse ecosystems that support a variety of plant and animal life, including rare and endemic species.✦ Fay Canyon, known for its natural beauty and relatively easy access.✦ The challenging Bear Mountain Trail, offering expansive views of the surrounding wilderness.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No permits required for day use; some access points may have parking fees.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Manzanita Campground

Located near Oak Creek, offering picnic tables and grills, with reservation opportunities available.

Pine Flat Campground

Situated within Oak Creek Canyon, it provides a forested setting with popular access to the creek.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Sedona
⌖ 6.01 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Sedona, Arizona

An awe-inspiring high desert town renowned for its vibrant red rock formations and varied outdoor activities.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Village of Oak Creek
⌖ 12.33 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Village of Oak Creek, Arizona

A tranquil desert town that serves as a gateway to unique red rock adventures and rugged landscapes just south of Sedona.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Cornville
⌖ 15.92 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Cornville, Arizona

A serene desert town known for its proximity to outdoor adventures in the Verde Valley, offering unique experiences amidst striking red rock landscapes.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Clarkdale
⌖ 16.46 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Clarkdale, Arizona

A captivating blend of Verde Valley history and outdoor adventure awaits in this small Arizona town.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Jerome
⌖ 19.84 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Jerome, Arizona

A historic mining town turned vibrant arts hub perched on a hillside, offering rugged trails, scenic views, and unique desert mountain adventures.

Fall through SpringExplore Town
Rimrock
⌖ 20.84 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Rimrock, Arizona

A secluded desert retreat offering access to diverse adventures in the rugged terrain of central Arizona.

Fall and SpringExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.