Bell Rock Vortex from Little Horse Trail
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Little Horse Trail

4.6
·491k reviews·Sedona, United States

A stunning 3.7-mile loop in Sedona offering iconic red rock vistas, perfect for families and photographers. Experience the magic of Arizona's desert l...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
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Bell Rock Vortex from Little Horse Trail

Little Horse Trail

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A stunning 3.7-mile loop in Sedona offering iconic red rock vistas, perfect for families and photographers. Experience the magic of Arizona's desert landscape.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Spectacular views without a strenuous hike, Little Horse Trail is a must-do in Sedona!"

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TIP

💧 Bring Plenty of Water

Crucial for any hike in Sedona! The trailhead has no potable water, so pack more than you think you'll need .

🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear

The trail is moderately flat but can be rocky in places. Good hiking shoes are a must for comfort and safety.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Spectacular Red Rock Views

Spectacular Red Rock Views

Throughout the trail

Experience breathtaking panoramic vistas of Sedona's iconic red rock formations. A photographer's dream!

Family-Friendly Loop

Family-Friendly Loop

The entire 3.7-mile loop

A moderately flat and accessible hike perfect for all ages, offering stunning scenery without extreme difficulty .

Instagram
Horseback Riding Adventure

Horseback Riding Adventure

Various tour operators

Explore the trails on horseback for a classic Western experience with incredible views .

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Beat the crowds and the heat by visiting Little Horse Trail early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Weekdays are generally less busy than weekends. Consider booking a horseback riding tour for a unique perspective.TikTok

Trailhead Access & Parking

The Little Horse Trailhead parking lot is your main access point. It has restrooms but no water, so bring plenty of your own. Arrive early, as parking can fill up quickly, especially during peak season.Instagram

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Avoid weekend rush
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Reserva tu paseo a caballo a Little Horse Trail en Sedona Az 🌅🌄🏞️#AzHBR #AzHorsebackriding #azbucketlist #thingstodoinAz #WesternContent #Cowboy #vibes #vibras #caballo #Sedona
@azhorsebackriding
9.1K likes • 119.4K views

💧 Bring Plenty of Water

Crucial for any hike in Sedona! The trailhead has no potable water, so pack more than you think you'll need.Instagram

🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear

The trail is moderately flat but can be rocky in places. Good hiking shoes are a must for comfort and safety.

Little Horse Trail is a gorgeous, 3.7 mile moderately flat loop trail through Red Rock country that offers spectacular views. Here’s everything you need to know: TRAILHEAD ACCESS: To access these trails, park in the Little Horse Trailhead parking lot just off of Highway 179. The parking lot is paved with vault toilet restrooms, but no potable water. Since it’s off of Highway 179 (AKA the main ent...
kaitandbeyond
239 likes • 7.4K views
Why more people aren’t raving about Little Horse Trail is beyond me! It’s the perfect family friendly hike if you want to see the snow on some of Sedona’s most famous peaks without hiking deep into the wilderness. 3 minutes from the #sedonasoulshack 10 minutes from #thesedonanest Link to book in bio @airbnb. When enjoying the outdoors it’s recommended that you exercise the 7 principles of @leav...
sedonasoulshack
1K likes • 27.8K views

☀️ Sun Protection is Key

Hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses are essential. The Arizona sun is intense, even on cooler days.

📸 Capture the Views

Don't forget your camera or phone! The scenery is stunning and perfect for photos.TikTok

reddit.com

Little Horse Trail, Sedona, AZ

Tips

from all over the internet

💧 Bring Plenty of Water

Crucial for any hike in Sedona! The trailhead has no potable water, so pack more than you think you'll need.Instagram

🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear

The trail is moderately flat but can be rocky in places. Good hiking shoes are a must for comfort and safety.

☀️ Sun Protection is Key

Hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses are essential. The Arizona sun is intense, even on cooler days.

📸 Capture the Views

Don't forget your camera or phone! The scenery is stunning and perfect for photos.TikTok

🐴 Consider a Horse Tour

For a unique perspective, book a horseback riding tour. It's a popular way to experience the trail.TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Little Horse Trail for its stunning, accessible red rock views and family-friendly nature. Many highlight the ease of the hike and the rewarding scenery, making it a top recommendation for a classic Sedona experience. Some note that parking can be a challenge, and it's essential to bring ample water.

What People Like

Breathtaking red rock views
Family-friendly hike
Accessible moderate trail

What People Dislike

Limited parking
No water at trailhead

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Little Horse Trailhead is located off Highway 179 in Sedona, Arizona. It's a well-marked access point with a dedicated parking lot.Instagram If you're driving from Phoenix, it's about a 2-hour journey north.

Yes, there is a paved parking lot at the Little Horse Trailhead. However, it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak tourist seasons. Arriving early is highly recommended.Instagram

Public transportation options directly to the trailhead are limited. It's generally recommended to have your own vehicle or arrange for a shuttle service if you're not driving.

From Sedona's main intersection (Hwy 89A and 89B), head south on Highway 179. The Little Horse Trailhead will be on your right, shortly after the turnoff for the Village of Oak Creek. Look for the signs.

The parking lot is paved and can accommodate standard vehicles. Larger RVs might find parking challenging during busy times, so plan accordingly.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

A Red Rock Pass or America the Beautiful Pass is required for parking at the Little Horse Trailhead. These passes can be purchased online or at various local vendors.Reddit

The trail is generally accessible from sunrise to sunset. There are no specific 'opening' or 'closing' times for the trail itself, but it's best to hike during daylight hours for safety.

Parking requires a Red Rock Pass, which costs $5 per day, or an annual America the Beautiful Pass. Ensure you have this displayed in your vehicle.Reddit

Yes, many local outfitters offer guided tours, including horseback riding tours, which provide a unique way to experience the trail and its surroundings.TikTok

There are no age restrictions for hiking the Little Horse Trail. It's considered family-friendly, making it suitable for hikers of all ages.Instagram

🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience

The Little Horse Trail is considered a moderate hike. It's a 3.7-mile loop that is mostly flat with some gentle inclines, making it accessible for most fitness levels.Instagram

Most visitors complete the Little Horse Trail loop in about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on their pace and how often they stop for photos.

You'll be treated to stunning views of Sedona's famous red rock formations, including iconic peaks. The trail winds through desert landscapes with vibrant colors.Instagram

Yes, there are vault toilet restrooms available at the Little Horse Trailhead parking lot. However, there is no potable water available.

Dogs are generally allowed on the Little Horse Trail but must be kept on a leash at all times. Always clean up after your pet.

📸 📸 Photography Tips

The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photographing the red rocks. Midday can be harsh, but still offers vibrant colors.TikTok

Keep an eye out for panoramic viewpoints that showcase the vastness of the red rock landscape. The trail offers numerous opportunities for stunning shots.

For personal photography, no special permit is required. However, if you plan on commercial photography or videography, you may need to obtain a permit from the Coconino National Forest.

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating specific rock formations. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.

Creators often highlight the sweeping vistas and the unique rock formations. Look for shots that capture the scale of the landscape and the vibrant red hues.TikTokInstagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Little Horse Trail is an excellent choice for families looking for an accessible and rewarding hike in Sedona. Its moderately flat 3.7-mile loop means younger hikers can manage it without excessive fatigue, and the spectacular red rock views will keep everyone engaged.Instagram It's a great way to introduce children to the beauty of the desert landscape without venturing into more challenging terrain. Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, as there are no amenities on the trail itself, and consider visiting during cooler parts of the day to ensure comfort for the little ones.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Photographers will find Little Horse Trail to be a treasure trove of visual opportunities. The trail offers unobstructed panoramic views of Sedona's iconic red rock formations, providing ample subjects for stunning landscape photography. The golden hours of sunrise and sunset are particularly magical, bathing the rocks in warm, dramatic light.TikTok Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness of the scenery and a telephoto lens to isolate interesting rock textures and formations. The relatively easy terrain means you can focus on composing your shots without being overly concerned about the hike itself.

🐴 Adventure Seekers

For those seeking a bit more adventure, consider experiencing Little Horse Trail via horseback riding.TikTok This classic Western activity offers a unique perspective on the red rock landscape and is a popular choice for visitors wanting a memorable experience. Several local outfitters provide guided tours suitable for various skill levels. It’s a fantastic way to connect with the spirit of the Southwest and cover more ground while enjoying the breathtaking scenery.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Little Horse Trail: A Hiker's Guide

The Little Horse Trail is a popular 3.7-mile loop trail in Sedona, Arizona, renowned for its stunning red rock scenery and moderate difficulty. It's often recommended for those seeking spectacular views without an overly strenuous trek.Instagram The trail is well-maintained and offers a fantastic introduction to the unique geological wonders of the area. Many visitors find it to be a perfect balance of accessibility and breathtaking landscapes, making it a must-do for many Sedona visitors.Reddit

Trailhead Access and Amenities: The primary access point is the Little Horse Trailhead parking lot, located directly off Highway 179. This lot is equipped with vault toilet restrooms, but it's crucial to note that there is no potable water available. Therefore, visitors must bring all the water they need for their hike. Parking can be competitive, especially during peak hours and seasons, so arriving early is strongly advised. A Red Rock Pass or an America the Beautiful Pass is required for parking.InstagramReddit

What to Expect on the Trail: The loop itself is a moderate hike, characterized by its relatively flat terrain with some gentle inclines. This makes it suitable for a wide range of hikers, including families with children.Instagram As you traverse the trail, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of Sedona's iconic red rock formations. The vibrant colors of the rocks, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, create a truly magical photographic opportunity.TikTok The trail is also a popular route for horseback riding tours, offering an alternative and classic way to experience the landscape.TikTok

Horseback Riding on Little Horse Trail

For an iconic Sedona experience, consider exploring the Little Horse Trail on horseback. Several local outfitters offer guided horseback riding tours that utilize this scenic route.TikTok This is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the Western spirit and see the red rock country from a unique vantage point. The tours are designed to be accessible for various skill levels, making it a memorable activity for many visitors.

Choosing a Tour: When selecting a horseback riding tour, look for operators that are well-reviewed and depart from or near the Little Horse Trailhead. These tours often provide helmets and guidance, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. The duration of the rides can vary, so choose one that fits your schedule and desired level of adventure. Many visitors rave about the feeling of connection to the landscape when riding through the desert terrain.TikTok

Benefits of Horseback Riding: Riding a horse allows you to cover more ground than walking and offers a different perspective on the scale and grandeur of the red rocks. It's a particularly popular activity for those looking to capture that quintessential Arizona cowboy vibe. The guides are often knowledgeable about the local flora, fauna, and history, adding an educational element to the adventure.TikTok

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