The best walks and hikes around Cornville
4.7
(65)
600
hikers
20
hikes
Hiking around Cornville explores the diverse landscape of the Verde Valley, characterized by lush riparian corridors along Oak Creek and the Verde River. The region features expansive grasslands and striking red rock formations, offering a mix of riverside paths, canyon trails, and routes over rolling hills. This varied terrain provides options for different ability levels, from easy walks to more moderate routes with elevation gain.
Best hiking trails around Cornville
- The most popular hiking route is Eagle's Nest Trail β Red Rock State Park, a 2.8 miles (4.5 km) trail that takes about 1 hour 15 minutes to complete. This route offers views of the area's notable red rock geology within Red Rock State Park.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Eagle's Nest Overlook β Cathedral Rock View loop from Red Rock, a moderate 4.6 miles (7.5 km) path. This loop provides panoramic vistas of the surrounding red rock landscape.
- Local hikers also love the Oak Creek Homestead (Cliffhanger) OHV Trail, a 5.4 miles (8.7 km) trail leading through varied terrain, often completed in about 2 hours 24 minutes.
- Hiking around Cornville is defined by riverside trails, open grasslands, and routes through canyons with red rock scenery. The trail network provides options for various ability levels, from easy riverside walks to more moderate routes with more elevation gain.
- The routes in Cornville are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 60 reviews. More than 500 hikers have used komoot to explore Cornville's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
1
hikers
7.17km
01:55
90m
80m
Embark on the Black Gramma and Creosote Loop, an easy hike that guides you through a classic Arizona desert landscape. This gentle route spans 4.5 miles (7.2 km) and involves a modest elevation gain of 286 feet (87 metres), making it perfect for a relaxed outdoor adventure. You can expect to complete the loop in about 1 hour and 55 minutes. As you traverse sandy singletrack and doubletrack paths, you will wind through abundant desert vegetation, including native Black Grama grass that can grow quite tall, offering a peaceful escape into nature.
Before you head out, remember that the Black Gramma and Creosote Loop is a multi-use trail, so you might encounter mountain bikers and trail runners in addition to other hikers. If you plan to bring your canine companion, you will be pleased to know that the route is dog-friendly. Always check current trail conditions before your visit; this is especially important for sandy sections or areas where vegetation might be overgrown. Planning your trip during cooler parts of the day or year can enhance your experience on this desert path.
This loop offers a quintessential Arizona desert experience within the vast Coconino National Forest. The trail's name highlights two prominent plant species you will observe: the native Black Grama grass and the resilient Creosote bush, both integral to the local ecosystem. This area provides a serene setting to connect with the unique flora and fauna of the region, making it a notable option for those seeking a tranquil desert walk.
27.3km
07:19
390m
200m
Hike the difficult 16.9-mile Outlaw OHV Trail in Coconino National Forest, featuring red rock formations and historical sites.
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8.75km
02:25
140m
160m
Hike the moderate 5.4-mile Oak Creek Homestead (Cliffhanger) OHV Trail to historic ruins and Oak Creek, gaining 467 feet in red rock country
4.0
(7)
56
hikers
4.52km
01:16
90m
90m
Hike the easy 2.8-mile Eagle's Nest and Kisva Trail Loop in Red Rock State Park, offering panoramic views and diverse ecosystems.
4.8
(26)
68
hikers
7.46km
02:00
90m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Cornville
Tips from the Community
At a little over 280 acres, Red Rock State Park features miles of trails, red rock vistas, and rock formations within its boundaries. The trails in the park are popular even though they can be challenging. The higher trails offer views out over Sedona while some of the lower trails offer shade and more of the rock formations.
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This overlook has views of red rock formations, mesas, buttes, and the city of Sedona in the distance.
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This overlook has views of red rock formations, mesas, buttes, and the city of Sedona in the distance.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many hiking trails to choose from around Cornville?
Yes, there are over 15 marked hiking routes around Cornville. The area offers a great variety, from easy riverside strolls to more challenging trails in the surrounding hills and canyons, ensuring options for all fitness levels.
What do other hikers think of the trails in the Cornville area?
The trails around Cornville are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Hikers often praise the region's diverse scenery, which includes everything from the lush banks of Oak Creek to the iconic red rock landscapes.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes near Cornville?
Absolutely. A great option for families is the West, Middle, & East Lagoon Loop Trails β Dead Horse Ranch State Park. It's a flat, 2.6-mile (4.2 km) loop that is perfect for a gentle walk with children.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails?
Many trails in the Cornville area are dog-friendly, but policies can vary, especially within state parks and national forests. It's always best to keep your dog on a leash and check the specific regulations for the trail you plan to hike. The trails in the Coconino National Forest are generally welcoming to leashed dogs.
Where can I find hikes with water or river access?
The region is defined by its waterways. For a hike with excellent river views and access, consider the Eagle's Nest Overlook β Cathedral Rock View loop from Elmersville, which follows a scenic path along Oak Creek. Many trails in Dead Horse Ranch State Park also run alongside the Verde River.
Are there any challenging hikes for experienced hikers?
While most trails directly around Cornville are rated as easy or moderate, more strenuous options are available nearby. For a tougher challenge, the Turkey Creek Trail β Coconino National Forest offers significant elevation gain over its 8.2-mile (13.1 km) distance, providing a good workout for seasoned hikers.
What are the best trails for seeing the famous red rock views?
For classic red rock scenery, the trails in Red Rock State Park are your best bet. The park is a short drive from Cornville and offers stunning vistas of the iconic geological formations. The area around Sedona, including the Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness, is renowned for these views.
How does hiking in Cornville compare to hiking in Sedona?
While both offer incredible scenery, they provide different experiences. Sedona is famous for its dramatic red rock formations and can be very crowded. Cornville offers a quieter alternative with more diverse landscapes, including lush riparian areas along the Verde River and Oak Creek, as well as open grasslands, in addition to nearby red rock views.
Are there any trails with waterfalls near Cornville?
Yes, the region has some beautiful water features. The Fossil Creek Waterfall is a highly-regarded local spot known for its beauty. Access to this area often requires a permit, especially during peak season, so it's essential to plan your visit in advance.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the Cornville Grasslands trails?
The Cornville Grasslands offer a unique hiking experience. The trails wind through a high-desert landscape of mesa dropseed grassland mixed with creosote and juniper shrubs. It's a relatively flat area, making it great for easy to moderate hikes and excellent for birdwatching.
Where are the most popular places to go hiking near Cornville?
Hikers in the area flock to several key locations known for their excellent trail networks and scenery.
Coconino National Forest is a vast and popular destination, home to a huge variety of trails. Dead Horse Ranch State Park is another favorite, offering well-maintained paths along the Verde River. For iconic red rock views, many people head to Red Rock State Park.
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