Advertisement

Arizona Hiking|Nature

Hike Through Desert, Pine Trees, Mesas, And Ancient Volcanoes In Arizona's Coconino National Forest

By Katie Lawrence | Published March 25, 2020

How many different landscapes can one area contain? If we’re talking about Coconino National Forest, the answer is “a lot.” From the iconic red rocks of Sedona to mountainous alpine tundra, this woodland expanse is one of the most diverse national forests in the country. These seven hikes outline just how stark the differences are:

Devil's Bridge is easily the most popular hike in the forest, and for good reason. At 4.6 miles, it's a fairly brief hike, with a return entirely disproportionate to the required effort. Looking out over the giant sandstone arch, you can practically see all of Sedona!

You can also experience some of the area's most iconic landforms, including Cathedral Rock. These iconic red canyonlands have come to define the city, and your visit just wouldn't be complete without seeing them up-close.

Advertisement

The terrain in Flagstaff couldn't be more different than Sedona, but alas, both cities are part of the very same forest. Elden Lookout Trail is rather difficult, but the panoramic views atop its 2,300+ foot elevation gain are simply unparalleled.

Advertisement

One trail in Coconino National Forest even leads underground! Take a short and sweet .3-mile trek to Lava River Cave, a more than 3,800-foot-long tunnel formed eons ago by surging lava flow.

Lush, jungle-like greenery can be found on Fossil Creek Waterfall Trail near Camp Verde. The 2.6-mile out-and-back hike is accessible to all skill levels transports you straight to a tropical oasis.

Heading back to Sedona, Seven Sacred Pools features little craters filled with pristine water that sparkles beneath the sunlight. It truly feels like you're on another planet!

From ancient volcanic rock underneath the earth's surface to the sky-high San Francisco Peaks, it's hard to think of anything missing from the incredible Coconino National Forest. This view is simply breathtaking!

How many of these hikes have you embarked on? Did we miss your favorite hike in Coconino National Forest? Let us know your thoughts!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Explore Arizona

Featured Addresses

Devil's Bridge Trail, Sedona, AZ 86336, USA

Lava River Cave, 171B Forest Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86001, USA

Seven Sacred Pools, Arizona 86336, USA

San Francisco Peaks, Arizona 86001, USA

Elden Lookout Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86001, USA

Cathedral Rock, Arizona 86351, USA

Fossil Creek - Waterfall Trail Parking, Fossil Creek Road, Pine, AZ 85544, USA