10 Dog Friendly Hikes in Sedona + Flagstaff
As the weather warms up, you’re probably thinking your hiking days are almost over. The ground will soon be hot enough to cook an egg in Phoenix which is no time to hike with your pup.
The good news is that just an hour or two away, the weather will stay nice enough to still venture outside and avoid giving your dog’s paws a sunburn.
These are our favorite dog-friendly hikes in Sedona and Flagstaff!
Bell Trail - Sedona
Bell Trail is one of our all-time favorite hikes. 7 miles of nature and red rocks leads you to a perfect watering hole. This trail is moderately trafficked, so the earlier you get there the better!
If your dog loves swimming, there are a ton of options alongside the trail and at the watering hole for a quick dip.
Fatman’s Loop Trail - Flagstaff
One of the most frequented trails in Flagstaff is Fatman’s Loop Trail. 2.4 miles in the Kachina Peaks Wilderness, this trail is best used in Spring to Fall seasons. All trails in the Kachina Peaks Wilderness require you to leash up your pup so make sure you bring a leash with you! This trail gives you views of Sedona red rocks and classic Flagstaff forests, too.
Devils Bridge Trail - Sedona
Did you know Devils Bridge is dog-friendly? This out and back trail is 4.2 miles. It’s also one of the best trails to hit if you’re looking for classic Sedona red rocks. This trail is rather popular but why wouldn’t you want to see the best views of Sedona with your furry friend?
Inner Basin Trail - Flagstaff
This hike is 3.2-miles of stunning forest that will leave you and your dog in awe! The Inner Basin Trail is a fan favorite for both dogs and people as it offers wildflowers and other blooms that make perfect sniff spots. The best time of the year to visit to see all this trail has to offer is when the trees begin to show off their leaves.
Getting to the trailhead can be difficult in a standard car so be sure you come prepared to drive rough roads. The views you’ll get from this trail are well worth it and the smells that come with it will your pup’s favorite part!
Bear Mountain Trail - Sedona
Looking for more of a challenge? If you and your pup like to take on some of the more difficult hikes, you should try out Bear Mountain Trail. You’ll gain 1,975 in elevation as you trek out and back. There’s not a ton of shade on this trail, so it’s important to bring enough water for both you and your dog to make it up and down. This trail is steep and requires a bit of climbing. One of the best ways to make this hike easier for both you and your dog is to strap a harness with a handle to your pup in case you need to assist them in some places to get to the top!
Sunset Trail - Flagstaff
This 8-mile trail leads you and your pup through a variety of scenery: forest, meadows, mountains, and water. This trail is rated easy and is only lightly trafficked throughout the season. The best times to enjoy this trail (and avoid the snow) is from May to November.
Soldier Pass Trail - Sedona
Soldier Pass Trail should definitely be on your list if you are looking for scenic views of Sedona. You’ll be able to see all that Sedona has to offer in just this one hike including pools, red rocks, and a cavern.
This trail is well-known in Sedona so be prepared to get there as early as you can. The parking lot is small, but the hike is well worth it for you and your pup to make it to the top.
Buffalo Park Trail - Flagstaff
Looking for picture-perfect meadows and mountain views? Buffalo Park Trail is the perfect place to take your dog for a quick stroll. This trail is peaceful, but be aware that wildlife is seen frequently along this trail and may not be the best place for dogs who are not well trained or leashed!
Cathedral Rock to Red Rock Crossing - Sedona
Another Sedona hike with access to water starts at either Cathedral Rock or Baldwin Trail. We chose the Cathedral Rock side and ventured down and around to the creek for a little river dip! This is an out and back trail of about 3.5 miles. It’s an easy hike that gives you and your pup plenty of time to unwind and relax by the river’s edge.
The trail here is narrow, but it makes for a beautiful view of Sedona where you can see red rocks in every direction. This trail isn’t too far from town making it the optimal stop for a day hike and quick bite on the way out.
Flagstaff and Sedona are two perfect spots to avoid the overwhelming heat of the Phoenix area. Your hiking schedule may have to adjust to weekend hikes, but all of these hikes are well worth the drive if you’re coming from out of town. Remember to pack a leash, water, and as always, keep it wild.
THE NARRATOR
This blog was thoughtfully written by Erin Maxon. You can find her on Instagram @withdogshetravels.
* Please remember to hike at your own risk. To learn more please refer to our Hiking Disclaimer.