Little Horse Trail

The trailhead for the Little Horse Trail is conveniently located off Highway 179 in Sedona. There is a paved parking lot available. Due to limited parking, especially during peak times, a free shuttle service is often available on certain days. It's advisable to check local transportation schedules before your visit.

Yes, to park at the trailhead within the Coconino National Forest, you will need a Red Rock Pass or an America the Beautiful Pass. These passes can typically be purchased on-site or at various locations in Sedona.

Yes, this trail is dog-friendly! Leashed dogs are welcome to join you on your hike. Please remember to clean up after your pet to help keep the trail enjoyable for everyone.

The Little Horse Trail can be hiked year-round, but spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant temperatures. During summer, it can get very hot due to the trail's exposure and lack of shade, so early mornings are recommended. Winter can also be a good time, though conditions may vary.

The trail starts on the wide Bell Rock Pathway with a gentle descent, shared with mountain bikers. As it transitions to the Little Horse Trail, you'll cross a dry streambed before climbing out. The path features smooth sections, natural grades, and some rocky wash areas and steps. The final approach to Chicken Point involves a steeper ascent over slickrock ledges, marked by rock cairns.

The trail offers continuous, panoramic views of Sedona's iconic red rock formations. You'll see landmarks like Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, Courthouse Butte, and the distant Chapel of the Holy Cross. The primary highlight and turnaround point for many is Chicken Point, which provides spectacular 360-degree views.

Yes, the Little Horse Trail is part of a larger network. It connects with other popular trails such as the Bell Rock Pathway #96, Chapel #213, Llama Trail, and Broken Arrow #125, offering options for longer, extended hikes.

Yes, the trail is generally rated as easy to moderate, making it suitable for a wide range of hikers, including families and those new to hiking. While there are some rocky sections and a steeper climb to Chicken Point, much of the path is manageable.

The final approach to Chicken Point involves a steeper and potentially slippery ascent over slickrock ledges. These sections are marked by rock cairns to guide you. It's also worth noting that Chicken Point is a stop for Pink Jeep Tours, so it can be crowded, especially during peak times.

You'll be surrounded by continuous red rock vistas, including prominent formations like Twin Buttes and Munds Mountain. The landscape is dotted with desert flora such as agave, yucca, and various cactus species. Depending on the season, you might also encounter expansive fields of wildflowers, and cypress trees line parts of the trail.

The Little Horse Trail is primarily an out-and-back route. Many hikers go to Chicken Point and return the same way. However, its connections to other trails allow for creating longer loop variations if desired.