Outdoors · Sedona

Bell Rock

Bell Rock is one of Sedona's most recognizable and most accessible formations — a rounded, bell-shaped butte rising just north of the Village of Oak Creek, south of Sedona proper, with Courthouse Butte standing beside it. Its summit sits at around 4,900 feet, and its easy visibility right off the highway makes it many visitors' first real look at red-rock country.

What makes it a favorite is how flexible it is. Gentle, well-marked trails loop around the base for an easy, family-friendly walk with big views the whole way, while more adventurous hikers can scramble up the lower slopes as far as their comfort with slickrock allows — there's no single summit trail, so you choose your own turnaround. Bell Rock is also one of Sedona's well-known vortex sites, and you'll often see people pausing to take it in.

Go earlier in the day for cooler temperatures, easier parking, and softer light on the rock. Bring water and shoes with decent grip if you plan to scramble, and know your limits on the steeper slickrock. From most Sedona rentals it's a short drive south, which makes Bell Rock an easy first outing to get your bearings before tackling the bigger hikes.