Sedona is home to more caves than we could ever attempt to count - and that's not even considering the ones yet to be discovered! If you've never embarked on the Raven Caves Trail near the Munds Mountain Wilderness, it's definitely worth adding to your outdoor adventure bucket list. It's not only one of the best hikes in Sedona, but one of the best hikes in Arizona. At just half a mile long, it's easily among the shortest hikes in the area, and you'll get to explore the inside of the iconic red rocks we all know and love. How cool is that?
Admiring the iconic red rocks of Sedona from afar is one thing, and climbing to the top is another - but what about actually venturing inside them?
That may sound a little far-fetched, but it's possible on the Raven Caves Trail, tucked away in the Coconino National Forest.
You'll find the trailhead just off Red Rock Scenic Byway, near the Munds Mountain Wilderness.
Half a mile and just over 50 feet of elevation gain are all that separates you from the final destination on this short-and-sweet hike, so all ages and skill levels are welcome.
The only real difficulty comes in the last tenth of a mile or so, when the trail begins its ascent into the caves.
Don't let that scare you off, though - the hard part is over in a flash, and the reward is worth any amount of sweat or aching muscles.
Like a complex spiderweb, the caves form an interconnected system that seemingly has no end.
Every so often, you'll come across a "door" leading to the outside world, through which panoramic vistas of the rugged desert surroundings can be enjoyed.
Visiting each individual cave is akin to trying out various lenses on a camera - no two offer the exact same perspective!
As you marvel at the landscape from all the different vantage points, your eyes will take snapshots that promise to stay forever etched into your memory.
Beyond the caves, a woodland paradise awaits.
After all your hard work scrambling up, down, and through the red rocks, take a dip in the crystal-clear Oak Creek to cool off before heading back the way you came. You'll have a hard time believing you're still in Arizona!
Oh, and let's not forget the sweeping panoramas of the lush wilderness and towering canyonlands you'll enjoy all throughout the hike.
No matter how you spin it, this trail is gorgeous as can be every step of the way.
See what it’s like to hike this beautiful trail:
Have you ever hiked the Raven Caves Trail? If so, we'd love to hear all about your experience in the comments section! Tell us your thoughts, then check out these other hidden caves in Arizona just waiting for you to discover them. Make sure to check AllTrails for Ravens Caves Trail reviews and the most up-to-date information on any hiking trail. And don't forget to sign up for AllTrails+ for even more tips!
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!
