Highlight • Natural Monument
Coffee Pot Rock
Hiking
5.0
(31)
Running
5.0
(1)
Mountain biking
5.0
(1)
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness
Tips
March 15, 2019
Hiking
March 4, 2023
Hiking
December 6, 2023
Running
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Coffee Pot Rock
4.9
(83)
541
hikers
14.7km
04:21
400m
400m
The Brins Mesa and Soldier Pass Loop Trail offers a captivating journey through Sedona's famous red rock landscapes, blending diverse terrain with continuous panoramic views. You'll hike through forests of junipers and pinyons, cross open slickrock benches, and navigate sections of steep red rock, all while enjoying vistas of prominent features like Coffee Pot Rock and Wilson Mountain. The route also takes you past unique natural attractions such as the Seven Sacred Pools and the ever-expanding Devil's Kitchen Sinkhole, providing a dynamic and engaging experience.
This moderate 9.2-mile (14.7 km) loop involves 1318 feet (402 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes around 4 hours and 20 minutes to complete. Parking can be tricky at the Soldier Pass Trailhead due to its popularity, so consider starting at the Jordan/Jim Thompson Trailhead, which often has more availability (a Red Rock Pass is required). Arriving early in the morning is always a good strategy to beat the crowds and the heat, ensuring a more pleasant hike.
What makes this trail particularly special is its integration of several distinct paths—Brins Mesa, Soldier Pass, Jordan, and Cibola—creating a continuously changing landscape and experience. You'll witness areas recovering from a 2006 wildfire, with blackened cypress trunks amidst new growth, offering a glimpse into the desert's resilience. The trail provides 360-degree views from atop Brins Mesa, making it a standout option for experiencing the full grandeur of Sedona's red rock formations.
4.5
(2)
23
hikers
4.49km
01:18
110m
110m
Embark on an easy hike along the Skidmark Trail to Coffee Pot Rock, a 2.8 miles (4.5 km) route that guides you through the stunning Coconino National Forest. You will experience a gentle elevation gain of 374 feet (114 metres) over approximately 1 hours and 17 minutes, making it perfect for a relaxed outing. As you walk, you will be surrounded by iconic red rock formations and the unique desert ecosystem, with the distinctive Coffee Pot Rock serving as a memorable turnaround point.
When planning your visit, be aware that while the trail is generally easy to follow, some sections can be rocky and uneven, so sturdy footwear is recommended. The route is popular and shared with mountain bikers, so stay alert and be mindful of others on the path. You can easily access the trailhead from Sedona, and using a navigation tool is a good idea to ensure you stay on course, as some parts may not be clearly marked.
This trail offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in Sedona's renowned red rock country, providing close-up views of geological wonders. Beyond Coffee Pot Rock, you might also catch glimpses of Thunder Mountain and Chimney Rock, adding to the scenic beauty. The diverse ecosystems of the Coconino National Forest also present chances to spot local wildlife and wildflowers, especially during peak seasons, making each visit a unique experience.
Details
Informations
Elevation 1,400 m
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Today
Monday 10 August
34°C
22°C
68 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 16.0 km/h
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