Courthouse Butte
Iconic red rock formations offering scenic loops and accessible pathways, perfect for hiking and photography.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Courthouse Butte
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic red rock formations offering scenic loops and accessible pathways, perfect for hiking and photography.
"One of the best trails in Sedona! Easy loop with stunning views of Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte."
🚶♀️ Easy Hikes for All
The Bell Rock Pathway is perfect for those seeking an easy, scenic walk with minimal elevation change.
🚴♂️ Share the Trail
Be aware of mountain bikers on many of the trails, especially the Courthouse Butte Loop.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Courthouse Butte Loop Trail
Courthouse Butte Area
A scenic 6.9km loop offering stunning, up-close views of Courthouse Butte and Bell Rock.

Bell Rock Pathway
Bell Rock Area
An accessible, relatively flat trail with iconic views of Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte.

Star Trails Over Courthouse Butte
Night Sky Viewing Spots
Witness magical night skies and capture incredible astrophotography of star trails.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Choose Your Adventure: Trails for Everyone
Timing is Key for Red Rock Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Easy Hikes for All
The Bell Rock Pathway is perfect for those seeking an easy, scenic walk with minimal elevation change.
🚴♂️ Share the Trail
Be aware of mountain bikers on many of the trails, especially the Courthouse Butte Loop.
📸 Capture the Reveal
The view of Courthouse Butte after Bell Rock is a favorite reveal for many visitors.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months, as the desert sun can be intense.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Easy Hikes for All
The Bell Rock Pathway is perfect for those seeking an easy, scenic walk with minimal elevation change.
🚴♂️ Share the Trail
Be aware of mountain bikers on many of the trails, especially the Courthouse Butte Loop.
📸 Capture the Reveal
The view of Courthouse Butte after Bell Rock is a favorite reveal for many visitors.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months, as the desert sun can be intense.
✨ Night Sky Gem
Courthouse Butte is a fantastic spot for astrophotography with minimal light pollution.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning red rock scenery and the accessibility of trails like the Courthouse Butte Loop and Bell Rock Pathway. Many appreciate the relatively easy terrain and the opportunity for great photography, especially during sunrise and sunset. Some note the presence of mountain bikers and the need for a Red Rock Pass for parking.
"An easy hike of about 5 miles from the car park to the north of the butte, (8 km) with stunning views of the Courthouse. The Cathedral Butte can also be seen to the west. Bikers are also present."
Philip Sharp
"One of the best trails in Sedona!"
Morgan Storms
"This is a loop around Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte.
It is an easy 6.9km trail with little elevation change.
It can be accessed from two trailheads, Bell Rock Vista & Pathway and Yavapai View Point, and offers close-up views of Sedona's iconic red rock formations."
Gaia
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Courthouse Butte is accessible via several trailheads. The Bell Rock Vista & Pathway trailhead and Yavapai View Point are common access points. Many visitors access the area from Highway 179.
Yes, there are parking areas available at trailheads like Bell Rock Vista & Pathway. Arrive early, as parking can fill up quickly, especially on weekends.
While direct public transport to the trailheads might be limited, check local Sedona shuttle services or ride-sharing options if you're not driving.
The Courthouse Butte Loop can be accessed from multiple points, including the Bell Rock Vista & Pathway and the Courthouse Vista.
Using GPS navigation to 'Bell Rock Vista & Pathway' or 'Courthouse Vista' will guide you to the main access points for the trails around Courthouse Butte.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
A Red Rock Pass is typically required for parking at trailheads in the Red Rock Ranger District, including those for Courthouse Butte. You can purchase these online or at local visitor centers.
The trails are generally open from sunrise to sunset. However, always check with the Red Rock Ranger District for any specific closures or restrictions.
There isn't a direct entrance fee to the trails themselves, but a Red Rock Pass is required for parking at designated trailheads.
Tickets are not required for trail access. However, purchasing a Red Rock Pass in advance can save you time upon arrival.
While not directly managed by the park, many local tour operators offer guided hikes and jeep tours that include views of Courthouse Butte.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Courthouse Butte Loop Trail is generally considered easy to moderate, with little elevation change, making it suitable for most hikers.
The loop is approximately 6.9 km (about 4.3 miles) and typically takes 1.5 to 2.5 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how often you stop for photos.
Dogs are generally allowed on trails in the Red Rock Ranger District but must be kept on a leash at all times. Always check current regulations.
You'll enjoy panoramic views of the iconic Courthouse Butte, Bell Rock, and surrounding red rock formations. On a clear day, you might also see Cathedral Butte.
Absolutely! It's a photographer's paradise, especially during sunrise and sunset. The night sky also offers incredible astrophotography opportunities.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, during sunrise and sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting for the red rocks. Nighttime is perfect for astrophotography.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast landscapes. For astrophotography, a tripod and a camera capable of long exposures are essential.
Drone usage is restricted in many areas of the Red Rock Ranger District. Always check the latest FAA and Forest Service regulations before flying.
The viewpoints along the Courthouse Butte Loop and Bell Rock Pathway offer excellent perspectives. The Courthouse Vista provides a great overview.
Yes, Courthouse Butte is known as a night sky haven, making it an excellent location for Milky Way and star trail photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trails Around Courthouse Butte
When planning your hike, remember that these trails are multi-use. You'll likely encounter mountain bikers, so staying aware of your surroundings and yielding when necessary is crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience. The trails are well-marked, but carrying a map or using a navigation app is always a good idea, especially if you plan to explore less-traveled paths. The Courthouse Vista offers a great starting point and overview of the area.
Consider the time of day for your visit. Early mornings and late afternoons offer the most comfortable temperatures and the most dramatic lighting for photography. The desert sun can be intense, so always prioritize hydration and sun protection. The beauty of Courthouse Butte lies in its accessibility and the variety of experiences it offers, from a gentle walk to a more adventurous exploration.
Capturing the Magic: Photography at Courthouse Butte
Beyond daylight, Courthouse Butte shines as a night sky haven. Its relatively low light pollution makes it an ideal spot for astrophotography. Capturing star trails or the Milky Way arching over the buttes is an unforgettable experience for dedicated photographers. A tripod and a camera with good low-light performance are essential for these nighttime adventures.
When planning your photo expeditions, remember that drone usage is often restricted in national forest areas. Always check the latest regulations. For daytime shots, a wide-angle lens is perfect for capturing the expansive desert vistas, while a telephoto lens can help isolate details of the rock formations. The Courthouse Vista provides a panoramic starting point for scouting your shots.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit