Highlight • Trail
Brins Mesa Trailhead
Hiking
5.0
(57)
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Coconino National Forest
Tips
July 2, 2020
Hiking
In the know? Log-in to add a tip for other adventurers!
Sign up for free
Nearby routes
Best routes near Brins Mesa Trailhead
4.9
(83)
541
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
(57)
431
hikers
8.62km
02:34
250m
250m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
6
hikers
2.20km
00:37
40m
50m
Embark on an easy hike along the Seven Sacred Pools via Cibola Pass Trail, a route that spans 1.4 miles (2.2 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 146 feet (44 metres). You can expect to complete this journey in about 37 minutes, making it a perfect quick escape into nature. As you traverse the well-packed dirt and occasional rocky sections, you will encounter classic red rock views and diverse desert plants. Keep an eye out for stunning formations like Cibola Mitten and enjoy the cooler air within shaded juniper forests. The trail offers a rewarding outdoor experience, immersing you in the unique landscape of the Coconino National Forest.
When planning your visit, consider that the Cibola Pass Trail often provides a quieter experience compared to the more congested Soldier Pass Trailhead, and parking tends to be easier here. The Seven Sacred Pools are particularly impressive during the spring months, especially after winter snowfall and early spring rains have replenished the natural basins. Visiting at this time will allow you to see the pools at their most vibrant, with pastel-blue water contrasting against the red sandstone. Always check local conditions before you head out to ensure the best experience.
This trail is notable for its unique geological features, including the famous Seven Sacred Pools, which are natural basins carved into the red sandstone. These pools are a highlight, offering a serene and picturesque stop along your journey. You will also pass by Devil's Kitchen, a dramatic sinkhole that adds another layer of natural wonder to the route. The combination of accessible terrain, distinctive rock formations, and the tranquil beauty of the pools makes this an exceptional short hike in the region, showcasing the natural artistry of the desert landscape.
Details
Informations
Elevation 1,380 m
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Wednesday 19 August
37°C
23°C
47 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 16.0 km/h
Most visited during
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December