A Trail Full of Magic, Mystery, and Red Rock Wonders – Soldier Pass, Sedona

Sedona has a way of making every hike feel like a mini pilgrimage—and Soldier Pass Trail might just be one of the most magical ones of all.

We hit the trail early, just as the first light started to spill over the red rock formations, painting the landscape in warm pinks and golds. From the very first steps, the energy on this trail felt different—raw, ancient, and quietly powerful. It’s a relatively short hike, around 4.5 miles round-trip, but it’s absolutely packed with natural wonders and unforgettable views.

First stop: Devil’s Kitchen Sinkhole.
You can’t miss it—literally. One minute you’re walking along the trail, and the next, the earth just drops away into this massive, gaping sinkhole. It’s wild to think that nature did this all on its own, with part of the collapse happening as recently as the 1980s. Standing on the edge (safely!) and peering into the layers of red rock, you get this eerie, awe-struck feeling like you’re witnessing the Earth’s slow-motion breathing.

Next up: the Seven Sacred Pools.
If you’re even a little bit enchanted by the mystical side of Sedona, this spot will speak straight to your soul. These natural rock pools are carved into the red sandstone, and even in dry seasons, some of them hold water—perfectly aligned, like nature’s own staircase. With the desert stretching out behind them and the cliffs rising in front, it feels like you’ve stumbled onto sacred ground. It’s quiet here. Reflective. The kind of place that makes you want to whisper, even if you’re just taking a selfie.

The trail continues winding through stunning desert scenery, with dramatic cliffs towering overhead, spiny cactus and wildflowers flanking your steps, and the occasional lizard darting out to say hello. You’ll pass through a mix of shaded patches and sun-drenched stretches, with the scent of juniper and warm red earth in the air. There’s a section with a little bit of scrambling too, which adds just enough adventure without being too technical.

The whole hike is a mix of meditative calm and “holy wow” moments. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to see Sedona’s red rock magic without a full-day trek. And by the time you circle back, you’ll feel like you’ve uncovered a little piece of the desert’s soul.

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Pro Tip: Go early in the morning to beat the crowds and soak in the serenity. And bring lots of water, the desert doesn’t play around.