Secret Slickrock
Short, accessible hike to a breathtaking plateau with iconic sunset views of Cathedral Rock.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds, catch sunset
Secret Slickrock
Best Time
Beat the crowds, catch sunset

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Short, accessible hike to a breathtaking plateau with iconic sunset views of Cathedral Rock.
"One of the best views in Sedona is also one of the most accessible!"
🚗 Parking is Limited!
Arrive early, especially for sunset. Weekdays are your best bet to snag a spot .
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The slickrock can be slippery. Good traction is key for a safe and enjoyable hike .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Iconic Cathedral Rock View
End of the Secret Slickrock Trail
Witness the majestic Cathedral Rock bathed in golden light. A truly unforgettable vista.
Sunset Spectacle
Slickrock Plateau
Experience a breathtaking Sedona sunset painting the sky with vibrant colors over the red rocks.

Accessible Red Rock Scenery
Secret Slickrock Trail
Enjoy stunning red rock formations and panoramic views on a short, family-friendly hike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for That Perfect Shot
Easy Access, Big Rewards
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking is Limited!
Arrive early, especially for sunset. Weekdays are your best bet to snag a spot.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The slickrock can be slippery. Good traction is key for a safe and enjoyable hike.
📸 Capture the Magic
This spot is renowned for its sunset views and iconic Cathedral Rock photo ops.
💧 Bring Water
Even short hikes in Sedona can be dehydrating. Stay hydrated!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking is Limited!
Arrive early, especially for sunset. Weekdays are your best bet to snag a spot.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The slickrock can be slippery. Good traction is key for a safe and enjoyable hike.
📸 Capture the Magic
This spot is renowned for its sunset views and iconic Cathedral Rock photo ops.
💧 Bring Water
Even short hikes in Sedona can be dehydrating. Stay hydrated!
🗺️ Trail Can Be Tricky
In dry conditions, the trail can be hard to follow in spots. Pay attention to cairns or use a map.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Secret Slickrock for its incredibly accessible yet stunning views of Cathedral Rock, particularly at sunset. The short, family-friendly trail makes it a popular choice for a quick dose of Sedona's iconic beauty. However, the extremely limited parking is a significant drawback, often leading to frustration for those who arrive late.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Secret Slickrock Trail is located off Boynton Pass Road. Parking is extremely limited and fills up quickly, especially during peak hours and weekends. Many visitors recommend arriving very early or on a weekday to secure a spot.
Consider carpooling if possible.Currently, there is no direct public transportation to the Secret Slickrock trailhead. Visitors typically drive their own vehicles or use ride-sharing services, though ride-sharing availability can be inconsistent in Sedona.
The trailhead is generally well-marked, but the path can sometimes be indistinct on the slickrock itself. Using a GPS app or following other hikers can be helpful.
While there isn't a dedicated shuttle for Secret Slickrock, the Sedona Shuttle system operates to popular trailheads like Cathedral Rock and Soldier Pass. It's worth checking their routes and schedules as they sometimes expand service areas.
Secret Slickrock is approximately a 15-20 minute drive from the heart of Sedona, depending on traffic conditions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, a specific permit or ticket is not required to access the Secret Slickrock Trail itself. However, parking at trailheads in Sedona can sometimes require a Red Rock Pass, especially if you are parking in designated areas or for extended periods. It's always a good idea to check current regulations with the Coconino National Forest.
Secret Slickrock is an outdoor trail and is generally accessible from sunrise to sunset. However, it's recommended to complete your hike well before dark for safety reasons.
There is no direct entrance fee for the Secret Slickrock Trail. The primary challenge is securing parking, which is free but very limited.
To avoid the largest crowds, aim for weekday mornings or late afternoons outside of peak sunset times. Early mornings are also fantastic for sunrise photography and fewer people.
No, there are no time slots or reservations available for Secret Slickrock. Access is on a first-come, first-served basis for parking.
📸 📸 Photography
The main plateau at the end of the trail offers the most iconic view of Cathedral Rock, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset.
The slickrock itself provides interesting textures and leading lines for creative shots.Sunset is incredibly popular for its dramatic lighting on Cathedral Rock.
Sunrise also offers beautiful light with fewer people. Midday can be harsh, but still offers great views of the red rock formations.A smartphone camera is perfectly adequate for capturing the stunning scenery. However, if you're serious about landscape photography, a wide-angle lens and a tripod can enhance your shots, especially for sunset and low-light conditions.
Drone usage is generally restricted in many popular Sedona areas, including near trailheads and state parks, due to regulations protecting wildlife and visitor experience. Always check the latest FAA and local Coconino National Forest regulations before flying a drone.
Secret Slickrock is ideal for landscape photography, sunset/sunrise shots, and capturing iconic Sedona red rock vistas. It's also a great spot for casual photographers looking for that quintessential Sedona postcard view.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The Secret Slickrock Trail is a short hike, typically around 0.8 miles roundtrip.
It's considered an easy to moderate walk, with some gentle inclines on the slickrock.Yes, Secret Slickrock is often described as family-friendly due to its short length and relatively easy terrain.
However, always supervise children closely, especially on the slickrock surfaces.Wear comfortable hiking shoes with good traction, as the slickrock can be slippery. Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended for the desert climate. Don't forget sun protection like a hat and sunscreen.
Restroom facilities are typically not available at the Secret Slickrock trailhead. It's advisable to use facilities before you arrive or plan accordingly.
Dogs are generally allowed on trails in Sedona, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Be mindful of the hot slickrock surfaces, which can be uncomfortable or even harmful for pets' paws.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photographers' Paradise
🚶♀️ Casual Hikers & View Seekers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Slickrock Trails
Navigating these trails requires a keen eye, as the path can sometimes blend into the rock itself. Markers or cairns are often present, but it's wise to have a map or GPS handy, particularly if conditions are dry and the trail is less defined. The experience of walking on these vast expanses of rock, with panoramic views unfolding around you, is a signature Sedona adventure.
Sunset Magic at Secret Slickrock
To fully enjoy this experience, arriving at least an hour before sunset is recommended to secure a good vantage point and allow time to settle in. Be prepared for crowds, as this is a popular location. The short, accessible hike means that many people can reach the viewpoint, contributing to its popularity. Despite the crowds, the sheer beauty of the sunset over Cathedral Rock often makes it worthwhile.
Family-Friendly Exploration
Parents can feel confident bringing their little ones here, but as with any desert hike, supervision is key. The open slickrock areas, while fun, require attention to ensure children stay safe and don't wander off. The payoff of reaching the plateau with its stunning views provides a memorable experience for the whole family, making it a great introduction to Sedona's natural beauty.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit