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2. Soldier Pass Cave
Hikers who are cave-curious will enjoy the easily accessible Soldiers Pass Cave Spur Trail just three miles from downtown Sedona. It’s a less-than-three-mile out-and-back hiking trail often rife with pretty wildflowers, is family-friendly, and fine for hikers of all skill levels. The most popular activities here are hiking and wildlife viewing.
This cave not only provides summer visitors with cool shade from the Arizona heat but also allows them to enjoy watching the interior colors change as the sun changes position. The gated lot at Soldier Pass Trailhead No. 66 only has a dozen or so parking spots so get there early. Otherwise, you will end up parking on the street and adding almost another mile to your hike.
Check the signs too because you are not allowed to just park anywhere on the street. The trailhead has set hours. It’s open from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Interested in taking in the sunrise or sunset? Then park on the street.
3. The Birthing Cave
While you’re in Sedona, check out the Birthing Cave too. There’s an easy, flat, wide, two-mile out-and-back hiking trail to this shallow cave nestled on the side of a small cliff. It has a large diamond-shaped opening overlooking the city’s red rocks.
Oddly, while this cave is supposedly quite popular and the cave can be busy with other hikers, the trail itself is rather uncrowded and peaceful, all things considered. Veteran visitors suggest parking off the road at the Long Canyon Trailhead and starting your hike there. Unlike the parking lots at Devil’s Bridge or Cathedral Rock, the parking lot at the trailhead is surprisingly small.
Be sure to watch for an obvious hollow in the face of the rock. That’s where you will discover the Birthing Cave. If you like wildflowers, visit between early March through May. Otherwise, the temperatures can be just as nice during September and October. The cave faces east so try to see the sunrise there.
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