TRAIL DESCRIPTION

This popular, highly trafficked trail is rated as easy, but don’t be dismayed—it’s far from boring. With its consistent elevation changes and shifting views, this hike offers variety and culminates with a grand, panoramic view of the Munds Mountain Wilderness.

TRAIL STATS

Length: 3.5 miles total
Trail Type: Out and back
Elevation Gain/Loss: +413 ft.
Difficulty: Easy
Kid Friendly: Yes
Dog-Friendly: Yes
Accessibility: Ample parking at the trailhead
Fee/Permit: $5.00 Daily Red Rock Pass Required (no fee station at site)

THE HIKE

Head south from the trailhead and cross over the 4x4 road onto the trail. The jeep road is part of the Pink Jeep Tour route, and you may come across their caravans a few times during your hike. The actual trail is well marked with metal signs denoting the Broken Arrow Trail System, wooden signs to mark intersections, and basket cairns to signal the path. Though the trail is well worn, several other trails intersect with Broken Arrow, including Hog Wash, Submarine Rock, and Twin Buttes, just to name a few.

The hike begins through brush and junipers. It gradually makes its way to red rock mesas and back again to tree-lined trails. This variation continues throughout the hike, never letting you feel blasé about the scenery around you. Early in the hike, you’ll come across a fenced area called The Devil’s Dining Room, a large sinkhole created by the collapse of underground caverns. You’ll also pass several of the vortex sites that make Sedona known worldwide. Near the end of the trail, you’ll walk out onto a flat rock ledge that offers an exquisite view of the Munds Mountain Wilderness. There’s a sizable rock in the center that makes for a perfect spot to rest or to take a photograph.

Broken Arrow is one of the most pleasant hikes in Sedona—perfect for out of town guests. If time permits, take the opportunity to see Submarine Rock. Just under a mile and a half out and back, the additional hike will give you a chance to scramble atop the flat, slick rock formation.

GETTING THERE

From Phoenix: Take I-17 North to AZ-179. Pass the Village of Oak Creek and the Chapel of the Holy Cross. At the traffic circle, make a right onto Morgan Rd. Proceed on Morgan Rd. until you reach the trailhead. The last 200 ft. will be off road but AWD or 4x4 is not necessary.

HIKING TIPS

Interagency passes are accepted at the trailhead—just leave the card on your dash.
Some shade cover exists on the trail depending on the time of day, but make sure to pack sunscreen and/or a hat as well as enough water appropriate to the season and your needs. There is no potable water on site.
As always, practice Leave No Trace ethics.

THE NARRATOR

This blog was thoughtfully written by Jia Oak Baker. You can find her on Instagram at @violetsky29.

* Please remember to hike at your own risk. To learn more please refer to our Hiking Disclaimer.

Hike | Broken Arrow Trail | Sedona