Introduction:
What? :
The Bell Rock Loop Trail is a 4.1 miles loop hike with 380 ft elevation gain that is located 6.3 miles south of Sedona junction.
The loop trail is relatively flat and is perfect for walkers, photographers and families. The trail offers close-up views of the iconic red rock formations.
Plan for an easy 2 hours hike.
Where? :
There are 2 options to start the hike from, both are located along highway 179.
The main trailhead parking is Bell Rock Pathway Trailhead Parking Lot, located 6.3 miles south of Sedona junction, just north of Village of Oak Creek.
The second option is to start your hike from Courthouse Vista point, one mile to the north.
When? :
This hike is accessible year-round.
The best time to visit here are during Fall and spring that offer mild weather, great for hiking conditions.
Summer is usually very hot, so start the hike early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
Winter days are cold, and you may have snow or ice on the trail.
Due note 1:
A Red Rock Pass or America the Beautiful Pass is required for parking ($5/day). The pass can be purchased at the fee machine at the trailhead (credit cards only).
Due note 2:
I highly recommend arriving early and bringing plenty of water, especially during the hot summer months. Use sun protection, a hat and sunglasses.
Due note 3:
It’s a popular trail, during weekends and early morning - mid days you may find it crowded and full parking lots. You will need to wait from spot to get free or park somewhere else.
Due note 4:
In high-season there is a shuttle service in Sedona but because this is outside Sedona I recommend arriving here with your car.
Due note 5:
Restrooms are available at the trailheads.
Due note 6:
The trail markings are clear but because there are several crossing trails it is better to have a map or App. GPS trails.
Due note 7:
Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.
Due note 8:
When visiting the Sedona, AZ area you can sleep in Sedona or at Village of Oak Creek.
My thoughts:
This is a fun hike, not challenging or long that rewards you with picturesque panoramic views of the south Sedona area.
Most of the people coming here are hiking to Bell Rock base and once you start the larger loop the crowd disappears and you have more solitude.
During summer months come early to find parking spots and enjoy the colder morning temperatures.
The Hike:
I will describe our hike as we did it:
Starting at Bell Rock Pathway Trailhead Parking Lot. It is a full loop trail and we did it clockwise, looping the base of Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte Loop Trail.
The Bell Rock Trail begins at the parking lot, right after the shallow creek crossing takes left, you will be hiking back from the right trail. From here the trail progresses north on a very easy, flat path that heads directly toward Bell Rock.
After 0.6 mile the trail reaches the base of Bell Rock butte and starts with a gentle climb and circles it to the left.
The trail circle to the north face of the Bell Rock and here you will see a trail leading to the Courthouse Vista Trailhead and another trail to your left climbing to the butte.
Bell Rock climb is more challenging. At the beginning it follows rock pile trail markers to the upper base of the exposed butte.
From here to upper levels of Bell Rock you will need to do some route finding and it involves rock scrolling and bouldering over exposed sections and is not recommended.
Here you are hiking on Bell Rock Pathway, take to the right Llama Trail for a very short walk and you will see Courthouse Butte Loop Trail fork to your left. Make sure you are on the right trail and not keep hiking the Llama Trail that is heading more to the north.
Here the Courthouse Butte Loop Trail enters the Munds Mountain Wilderness.
Courthouse Butte Trail is heading west on the base of Courthouse Butte passing through a nice section of pine forest.
When you get to a higher elevation you can look back and see from far the Cathedral Rock formation.
Keep hiking and after 2.3 miles from the trailhead you can see on the left side of the trail an exposed rock. Find the unofficial trail to the left and climb the exposed slick rock to its top point.
From this high vintage point there is a nice view to the west, you can clearly see the rock needle formation called Rabbit Ears.
From here the trail starts descending into the wash to the south, starting looping the impressive Courthouse Butte.
You will reach a wide clear rocky wash and see a trail junction.
To the left there is a Big Park Loop trail and you need to turn right (west) and follow that sign for Big Park Loop.
The trail follows the Courthouse Butte base in a flat land and after 3.5 miles from the hike starting point you will see a trail to your left that is leading south back to the trailhead parking lot.
Overall it was a fun 4.1 mile long hike and it took us about 2 hours to complete.
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