If you’ve only seen Sedona in spring or fall, winter will feel like discovering a secret level in your favorite game.
From December to March, Sedona’s days are crisp and clear, with average highs in the 50s–60s and chilly nights in the 30s. Snow usually comes in light bursts that dust the red rocks, then melt quickly—especially on south-facing trails.
Translation: perfect sweater weather, fewer crowds, and way more moments of “how is this real?”
And when you’re staying at TinyCamp, you can roll straight from your cabin, coffee in hand, to some of Sedona’s best winter hikes.
1. West Fork Trail (Oak Creek Canyon)
Vibes: Narnia meets red rock canyon
In winter, West Fork is pure storybook. Snow dusts the canyon walls, icicles hang from overhangs, and Oak Creek turns into a ribbon of ice and reflections.
- Trail type: Out-and-back
- Distance: Up to ~6–7 miles round-trip; turn around whenever you like
- Difficulty: Easy–moderate (lots of creek crossings, some icy patches in shade)
Why it’s great in winter
- The high canyon walls hold the cold, so you’re more likely to find snow and ice here than on most Sedona trails.
- It’s quieter in winter—fewer crowds and more echo-y canyon silence.
- Oak Creek Canyon has its own cooler microclimate, making snow more likely than down in town.
2. Cathedral Rock Trail
Vibes: short, steep, spiritual
Cathedral Rock is one of Sedona’s most iconic hikes—short, scrambly, and ridiculously photogenic. In winter, you might catch those famous spires dusted with snow, glowing pink at sunrise or sunset.
Trail type: Out-and-back
Distance: ~1.2–1.5 miles round-trip
Difficulty: Short but steep with some hand-and-foot scrambling
Why it’s great in winter
Cooler temps make the climb more pleasant.
- The low sun angle means dreamy light all day.
- If there has been recent snow, the contrast of white powder on red rock is unreal.
Caution: Any ice on the steep slickrock ramps can make this dangerous—use good boots and traction, and don’t go higher than you feel comfortable.
3. Fay Canyon Trail
Vibes: chill, canyon cozy, great for families
Fay Canyon is like Sedona’s “introvert trail”—peaceful, tucked-in, and gorgeous without being overly dramatic or exposed. It stays relatively mellow in winter and often avoids the worst of icy conditions.
Trail type: Out-and-back
Distance: ~2.3 miles round-trip
Difficulty: Easy
Why it’s great in winter
Lower elevation and relatively gentle terrain mean it’s usually less impacted by snow and ice.
Perfect for mixed groups: kids, grandparents, or “I just want pretty views without drama” hikers.
4. Bell Rock & Courthouse Butte Loop
Vibes: choose-your-own-adventure red rock playground
Bell Rock is a classic Sedona vortex site and a great hike for winter because you can keep it short and flat OR add more elevation if conditions are dry.
Trail options:
- Easy loop around the base
- Steeper “scramble” sections partway up Bell Rock
- Distance: 1–4+ miles depending on route
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Why it’s great in winter
Open, sunny terrain helps melt ice and snow quickly.
Flexible distance = you can adapt to energy levels and weather.
5. Boynton Canyon Trail (+ Optional Subway Cave Spur)
Vibes: canyon corridor, vortex energy, choose-your-depth adventure
Boynton Canyon is a long, beautiful canyon hike that offers everything: red rock walls, pockets of forest, and a well-known vortex area.
Distance: Up to ~7+ miles round-trip (shorter if you just go partway)
Difficulty: Moderate
Why it’s great in winter
Much of the trail is relatively gentle, making it a solid choice for cool, clear days.
- Caution: Shaded sections can hold snow and ice—especially after storms.
6. Airport Mesa / Airport Loop Trail
Vibes: big-sky panoramas, sunrise & sunset candy
Airport Mesa is all about views: 360° panoramas of almost every major red rock formation around Sedona. Many people go just to the main overlook, but the full Airport Loop is a fantastic winter hike when conditions are dry.
Trail type: Loop
Distance: ~3.3 miles
Difficulty: Moderate (some rocky, narrow sections)
Why it’s great in winter
Open exposure = great sun, less lingering ice.
Winter Hiking Safety + Gear
HAVE FUN!!!
Photo credits: Sedona monthly, stan rose photography, hike bike travel, noah lang photography,