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Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness Area wilderness guide
Wilderness Area · AZ

Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness Area

Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness Area is a striking landscape of red rock formations and rugged canyons, offering outdoor enthusiasts a variety of adventures in the heart of Arizona's Coconino National Forest.

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 Area

Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness Area is a striking landscape of red rock formations and rugged canyons, offering outdoor enthusiasts a variety of adventures in the heart of Arizona's Coconino National Forest.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Located within the Coconino National Forest in Arizona, the Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness Area spans a diverse landscape of red rock cliffs, towering buttes, and winding canyons. This protected area covers approximately 47,194 acres and boasts an array of ecological diversity, from shaded pine forests to desert scrublands. The area is famous for its striking natural beauty and dramatic geological formations that captivate hikers and photographers. Historically, the region was home to indigenous cultures that left behind a legacy of rock art, adding a layer of cultural intrigue to its natural splendor. Visitors can explore over 100 miles of trails that guide them through scenic canyons and offer breathtaking views from elevated ridges, with popular trails such as Bear Mountain and the Secret Canyon Trail leading the way. The wilderness area is a haven for those seeking solitude, providing opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing amidst peaceful surroundings. Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness Area is particularly alluring for its iconic red rock vistas and the appeal of its varied terrain, which continues to draw thousands each year.

Field Guide · Wilderness Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness Area

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

Discovering the Subway Cave in Sedona★ 8.2⌖ 2 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.

Hiking to Secret Mountain Vista in Sedona★ 8.8⌖ 3 miHiking
Secret Mountain Trail

Hiking to Secret Mountain Vista in Sedona

Explore the 10-mile round-trip hike to Secret Mountain Vista in Sedona, AZ. Rated moderate, this trail offers stunning views of red rock formations and solitude for adventure seekers. Best in spring and fall, it promises a peaceful escape with challenging climbs.

Hiking The Edge of The World in Sedona★ 8.7⌖ 4 miHiking
Sedona

Hiking The Edge of The World in Sedona

Experience 'The Edge of The World' hike near Sedona, Arizona, featuring moderate difficulty and stunning views across Coconino National Forest. Ideal for adventure seekers and photographers.

Hiking Fay Canyon Trail in Sedona★ 7.5⌖ 4 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.

Exploring Boynton Pass Vortex in Sedona★ 7.8⌖ 4 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.

Exploring the Birthing Cave in Sedona★ 7.8⌖ 4 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.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Devil's Bridge, a stunning natural rock arch offering sweeping views of the surrounding landscape.✦ Secret Canyon, known for its secluded pathways and mesmerizing rock formations.✦ The Seven Sacred Pools, a series of natural pools carved into the rock that are a unique sight during periods of water flow.✦ Brins Mesa Trail, providing an incredible vantage point for sunset and panoramic vistas of the region.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness Area

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness Area
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness Area
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness Area
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness Area
Park Recreation

Climbing

Available in Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness Area
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 Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No permits or fees required for entry.

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 Area

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

Manzanita Campground

Located alongside Oak Creek, this campground offers shaded sites and easy access to the creek.

Pine Flat Campground

Surrounded by ponderosa pines, this campground is situated off Highway 89A, providing a tranquil setting.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness Area

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

Sedona
⌖ 7.61 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
⌖ 13.89 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
⌖ 17.58 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
⌖ 17.70 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
Flagstaff
⌖ 19.76 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Flagstaff, Arizona

A vibrant mountain town offering a remarkable mix of high-altitude recreation and desert landscapes in Northern Arizona.

Fall and WinterExplore Town
Parks
⌖ 20.89 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Parks, Arizona

A quiet gateway to the northern Arizona high country with access to alpine forests, rugged trails, and abundant outdoor activities year-round.

Late Spring to Early FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness Area

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.