Chasing the Light: Sunset Hikes in Sedona

There’s something about a Sedona sunset that makes you slow down. Maybe it’s the way the red rocks seem to glow from within, or how the desert quiets just as the sky erupts in color. Whatever it is, sunset in Sedona feels like a reward. Few things compare to reaching a viewpoint just as the sun dips behind the horizon.

At Four Season Guides, we’ve spent years exploring the trails of the Southwest, and Sedona remains one of the most memorable spots to end a hiking day. Whether you’re new to the area or a seasoned hiker looking for new inspiration, these trails offer unforgettable evening adventures.

What makes Sedona Sunset Hikes so special?

The desert has its own rhythm, and sunset is one of its finest moments. Temperatures cool, crowds thin, and golden light paints the landscape in ever-changing hues. It’s an experience that’s hard to put into words. It’s best felt while standing at the edge of a canyon, surrounded by towering sandstone cliffs.

Sedona's trails range from easy walks to rugged climbs, and many offer west-facing views ideal for sunset watching. Hiking at this time of day is not only beautiful. It’s also practical. The light is soft and perfect for photography, and the cooler temperatures make hiking more comfortable, especially in warmer months.

Sedona Trails That Shine at Sunset

Cathedral Rock

One of Sedona’s most iconic hikes, Cathedral Rock is short and steep, leading to a saddle between massive red rock spires. It’s a popular trail for sunset, and for good reason. The views from the top are dramatic, and the evening light makes the landscape feel almost otherworldly.

Doe Mountain

A relatively gentle climb brings you to the top of a flat mesa with panoramic views in every direction. From up here, you can watch the sun set behind the Secret Mountain Wilderness, with wide-open skies and layered rock formations stretching to the horizon.

Bell Rock & Courthouse Butte Loop

This loop is a great choice for a more mellow experience. It winds through open desert and around two impressive rock formations. While not as elevated as other options, the loop offers great visibility and an easy return route once the sun has gone down.

Mescal Mountain Loop

This beginner-friendly hike weaves through the Mescal Trail, Long Canyon Trail, and Deadman’s Pass Trail. The route showcases a variety of terrain and views, from desert flats to sweeping vistas of Sedona’s most iconic formations. It’s an excellent option for hikers looking for something scenic and approachable in the late afternoon.

Mitten Ridge

For the more adventurous hiker, this loop offers outstanding views in one of the most scenic corners of Sedona. It follows the path of old wagon roads, climbing to a slickrock saddle high above Bear Wallow Canyon and Oak Creek Canyon. The reward is 360-degree views and a quiet sense of awe as the sun drops below the horizon.

Exploring Sedona with a Local Lens

If you're unfamiliar with Sedona’s trails, local insight makes a big difference. Knowing which trailheads fill up early, how long each hike realistically takes, and which routes offer the best light near sunset can completely change your experience.

At Four Season Guides, our  Sedona hiking tours are designed to help hikers enjoy the best trails at the best times. These guided hikes emphasize experience over speed. That means time to explore, take photos, and appreciate the quiet of the desert.

Making a Day of It

While sunset hikes are a highlight, Sedona has plenty of beautiful trails that are worth exploring earlier in the day. Pairing a morning hike with an evening trail gives you a broader view of the landscape and a chance to experience Sedona’s changing light.

Some popular daytime options include:

• West Fork Trail. This shaded creekside trail is especially stunning in the fall and offers a peaceful experience among canyon walls and towering trees.
• Bear Mountain. A steep, strenuous climb that rewards hikers with some of the most expansive views in the region.
• Brins Mesa. A moderate trail that blends forested paths and sweeping red rock views, just minutes from town.

For those who want to explore multiple trails without worrying about where to stay or what to pack, our lodge-based hiking trips provide a comfortable way to spend more time outdoors while returning to a warm bed each night.

When to Go

Sedona is a year-round destination, but spring and fall are ideal for hiking. In the summer months, early morning and evening hikes are best to avoid high temperatures. Winter brings colder mornings and the occasional dusting of snow on the red rocks, which adds something truly special to the landscape.



If you're planning your first visit, the best time to hike in Sedona is usually March through May or from late September to early November.

A Quiet Moment in the Desert

Sunset hiking isn’t just about the view. It’s about how it makes you feel. As the day winds down and the light softens, the desert becomes a quieter place. Being there to witness that change is something many hikers carry with them long after the trail ends.

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful way to end the day or hoping to experience Sedona at its most beautiful, a sunset hike is a great place to start.

And if you're ever unsure of where to go, or just want to make the most of your time on the trail, we’re always happy to share what we know!