Highlight • Cave
Soldier Pass Cave
Hiking
4.9
(40)
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness
Tips
March 4, 2023
Hiking
December 6, 2023
Running
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Soldier Pass Cave
4.9
(86)
556
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.
4.8
(59)
447
hikers
8.62km
02:34
250m
250m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(3)
24
hikers
23.6km
06:46
540m
500m
Embark on the Chuckwagon, Brins Mesa and Soldier Pass Loop for a challenging hike through Sedona's iconic red rock landscape. This difficult route spans 14.6 miles (23.6 km) and involves a significant elevation gain of 1776 feet (541 metres), taking approximately 6 hours and 45 minutes to complete. You will traverse diverse terrain, including steep sections that climb red rock "stairs" to Brins Mesa, where you can enjoy expansive views of Mormon Canyon and Wilson Mountain.
When planning your visit, be aware that parking at the Soldier Pass trailhead is often limited and has specific operating hours. For a more reliable start, consider using the Jordan/Jim Thompson trailhead, also known as Brins Mesa Trailhead, which offers a larger parking capacity. Arriving early in the day is always a good strategy to secure a spot and avoid the midday heat, especially during warmer months.
This loop offers a chance to discover unique geological features that define the Coconino National Forest. Along the way, you can explore natural wonders like the Seven Sacred Pools and the impressive Devil's Kitchen sinkhole. These distinctive formations highlight the area's rich geological history and provide memorable points of interest during your extensive hike.
Details
Informations
Elevation 1,490 m
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Tuesday 6 October
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16°C
11 %
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Max wind speed: 11.0 km/h
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