Okay, you’re on your way to Sedona, and you’re getting SO pumped for the hiking readily available. HOWEVER, you quickly realize that you know what? You’re not in the mood for a long hike. If there was only a way to enjoy the beauty of Sedona without all of the efforts – oH NOOOOOOOOOOOO. Let me introduce you to the Doe Mountain trail in Sedona, Arizona.
Doe Mountain is one of my favorite easy Sedona hikes because it’s short and offers some great views that you’ll regret missing out on if you skip the trail during your Sedona itinerary.
But I won’t keep you any longer. Let’s get into Doe Mountain trail and everything to expect on trail!
When you’re done reading this, make sure you check out my other Sedona blogs so you can plan the ultimate trip there:
- Best Sedona Sunrise and Sunset Hikes
- Most Instagrammable Places in Sedona
- Best Sedona Vacation Rentals
- Sedona Travel Guide for First Timers
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Planning Your Hike Up Doe Mountain Trail
How long is the Doe Mountain trail? Where is the trailhead? HELP. Calm down, friend. Below are the Doe Mountain trail fast facts to help you plan your hike there.
- Trail length: 1.7mi RT; 2.75mi RT if you walk the whole trail on top of the mountain
- Elevation Gain: 430ft
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Time: 1.5 Hours while stopping for views
- Best Time to Hike: Sunrise or sunset for the best photos. I prefer sunrise.
- Trailhead Location: Click Here
- Red Rock Pass Required?: Yes. You can get a Red Rock Pass there or online.
- Dogs Allowed?: Yes! Dogs must be on a leash.
- Parking: Parking is available and easy to get to. Please keep in mind that the parking lot is small and is shared with its hike neighbor Bear Mountain trailhead.
Trail Difficulty
While Doe Mountain trail is rated as “easy,” I can see why some folks consider it moderate. After you complete the first half of the trail, it gets a bit steeper for like two minutes.
I don’t think this is anything to worry about; however, if you’re not the uphill kind of person, prepare yourself for this small obstacle! Because of it’s ease, Doe Mountain Trail makes the perfect addition to any 3 day Sedona itinerary. Its ease makes it great for sunrise—the trail isn’t hard to follow in the dark!
Getting There
Because I know some of y’all like things written, the following directions are from the USDA site:
“Drive 27 miles south from Flagstaff to Sedona on US 89A. Continue through Sedona to Dry Creek Road at the west end of town. Turn north on Dry Creek Road (FR 152C) three miles to the Boynton Canyon intersection then left on FR 152C about a mile to the trailhead.”
Upon your arrival, you can pay the $5 Red Rock pass fee. You can learn more about Red Rock passes online. There is a machine in the parking area that allows you to grab a pass there too! Alternatively, if you have an America the Beautiful Pass, you can use this. A small restroom is located at the Doe Mountain Trailhead. You can use it before your hike.
Hiking Doe Mountain Trail
So Doe Mountain is kiiiiiiind of a popular hike, but not nearly as popular as trails like Devil’s Bridge and Cathedral Rock Vortex. I would say Doe Mountain is an excellent hike if you want to escape the crowds and get a unique view of the red rocks!
So what can you expect from Doe Mountain trail? I have hiked this trail several times and will get into that now!
The Start
The beginning of the Doe Mountain hike wastes no time! As soon as you hop on the trail, you’ll begin a gradual incline to the top. You’ll pass under some trees and meander alongside a cactus or two. While the incline does start right away, it isn’t anything to worry about!
The Middle
After about 5 minutes, you’ll start to get a better view of your surroundings! For example, if you look to the right of the Doe Mountain trail, you’ll notice Bear Mountain standing tall and proud in the distance. At this point, the path can get a bit rocky, and you should watch your footing!
Typically when it rains, the rocks along the middle of the Doe Mountain trail get kind of slick, so be careful!
At some point, you will reach a sign for the trailhead junction of the Aerie trail. I don’t know much about that trail, to be honest, BUT for this adventure, you’re just gonna hike on past that and continue your way up Doe Mountain!
The trail may get slightly steeper at this point; however, it’s still very manageable. AND OHHHHH MY THE VIEWS. They get better and better as you climb.
The End
THIS IS THE FINAL PUSHHHHH. The end of the Doe Mountain trail requires you to scramble just a tad. I mean, like two seconds. The rocks are shaped like steps, but I always end up grabbing them with my hands. After your junction and steep inclines, you’ll reach a rocky gully that is steps away from the top of the mountain.
Again, all of this is extremely manageable. My only suggestion is to watch your footing if the trail is wet from rain or snow because the rocks can be slick!
After going up the rock gully, YOU’RE THERE. You will have made it to the top of Doe Mountain and are now standing 450ft above Sedona—congrats!
The Top of Doe Mountain
Okay, so you’re at the top of Doe Mountain Trail – what the heck do you do now? Ummmmm explore, duh. As I said at the beginning of this blog, what I love most about the Doe Mountain trail is its 360 views of Sedona. I promise you’ll love it too! So take this opportunity to explore.
There is a bit of a trail at the top of Doe Mountain that you can use as your guide for exploring the top and taking photos. You might also notice that there are various rock mesas you can stand on for a quick photo along the trail!
Where to Take the Best Photos
My favorite photos from Doe Mountain have come from the top, looking towards Courthouse Butte in the distance. This Sedona photo spot is a great place for a sunrise!
Also, pro-tip, you might have the trail to yourself if you go up Doe Mountain for sunrise! Unfortunately, not many people go, and I’m not sure why but I’m going to guess it has something to do with, oh IDK, having to wake up early.
You can also take pictures facing North towards Bear Mountain. If you go during sunrise, you might also see hot air balloons.
Tips for Hiking Doe Mountain Trail
That was quick, huh? Told ya! Let’s discuss some tips for hiking Doe Mountain that are sure to increase your level of enjoyment.
Take Some Breaks
While the elevation gain up Doe Mountain trail isn’t nearly as bad as most Sedona hikes, take a break when you need to! Nearing the trail’s end, it can get much steeper than it started. But, there’s no need to rush to the top!
Stay on Trail
There are so many fragile fauna and life along the trail. Please do your part in protecting it by staying on the path! If you want to take photos, there are plenty of mesas all over the top that will give you a high vantage point for your photos.
What to Pack
I already started talking about some of this, but I’m going to take this opportunity to list a few extra items you should have on your Doe Mountain hike.
Sturdy Hiking Boots
Bring some sturdy hiking boots with you so you’re not slipping and sliding all over the place. I have enjoyed the Keen Targhees on my Sedona hikes.
A Small Backpack
To go up the Doe Mountain trail, you don’t need anything crazy! A small 25L backpack should do. I typically hike with a 36L bag because it comfortably holds my camera.
Bring a Headlamp
Bring a headlamp to this Sedona hike! Doe Mountain is best for sunrise. That means you’ll probably end up hiking in the dark on your way to the top! Do yourself a favor and bring a headlamp for your hike.
A Camp Pillow
I need to start doing this more often, but if you’re not the type of person who likes sitting on hard-ass rocks while you watch the sun go down, bring a camp pillow! They’re typically super lightweight, easy to pack, and make a world of difference when it comes to your booty being comfortable on the trail.
Want To Hike Something More Challenging?
You’re in luck! Sedona has so many beautiful hikes that range in difficulty. If Doe Mountain isn’t your cup of tea, there are plenty of Sedona sunrise hiking alternatives.
My first suggestion is always Bear Mountain. Why? Because if you LOVE Sedona, then this hike is for you. It combines a good workout with some of the best overhead views you will ever see at this place. A morning person? GREAT! Bear Mountain is an excellent sunrise destination. Devil’s Bridge and Birthing Cave are excellent options too!
Keep Exploring Sedona
I hope this blog has gleaned your interest in hiking Doe Mountain trail!
And in case you’re like, “Wow, I have a Sedona vacation coming up and don’t know what else to do,” I got you. Check out these posts:
