Submarine Rock ?
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Broken Arrow Trail

4.8
·719 reviews·Sedona, United States

Rugged off-road trails and scenic hikes amidst Sedona's iconic red rocks. Thrilling for adventurers, breathtaking for hikers.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Fewer crowds, golden hour light

CrowdLow
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Submarine Rock ?

Broken Arrow Trail

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Fewer crowds, golden hour light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Rugged off-road trails and scenic hikes amidst Sedona's iconic red rocks. Thrilling for adventurers, breathtaking for hikers.

4.8
(719 reviews)

"It was so peaceful and scenic, I highly recommend. We couldn’t stop taking photos!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Rent an Off-Road Vehicle

For the full experience, rent a Jeep or UTV! Many find it more fun than hiking.

🥾 Hike to Chicken Point

A popular and rewarding hike with 360° views. Great for photos!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Devil's Staircase

Devil's Staircase

Off-road section

A steep, technical descent that tests off-road driving skills. Thrilling and memorable!

Chicken Point

Chicken Point

End of the main trail

Panoramic red rock views and a popular spot for photos. Great turnaround for hikers.

Submarine Rock

Submarine Rock

Off-road section

A unique rock formation offering fun exploration and stunning vistas, especially in the rain.

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Planning Your Visit

Off-Road Adventure or Scenic Hike?

Broken Arrow Trail offers thrilling off-road routes for 4x4s and UTVs, but it's also a popular hiking and biking destination. Decide if you're seeking an adrenaline rush or a scenic trek. Be aware that the trail can be busy with tour groups, especially on weekends.

Navigating the Terrain

While parts of Broken Arrow are accessible for casual hikers, the more challenging sections like Devil's Staircase are best suited for experienced off-roaders or those with navigation apps. Always check weather conditions, as rain can make the trail dangerous.

Best Times

When
Weekday evenings
Why
Fewer crowds, golden hour light
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend mornings
Why
Good for hiking before heat
Crowd
Medium
When
After rain
Why
Unique experience, but check conditions
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

It feels a lot scarier than it looks! My palms were sweating 🫣🫨😂 Sedona, AZ - Broken Arrow Trail #4runner #4runneroffroad #letsgoplaces #4x4offroad #4x4life #wildernessadventure #campingrigs #toyota #toyota4runners #toyota4runnertrail #toyota4runner4x4 #4runnerlife #sedona #sedonaarizona #newmexicocamping #4runneroverland #desertoffroad #mothman #toyota #toyotas #toyotaoffroad #yota @toyotaus...
mothman_4runner
48 likes • 479 views

🚗 Rent an Off-Road Vehicle

For the full experience, rent a Jeep or UTV! Many find it more fun than hiking. Instagram+5

🥾 Hike to Chicken Point

A popular and rewarding hike with 360° views. Great for photos! Reddit

Devils Staircase Broken arrow trail (Sedona, Arizona) - - - #sedona #sedonaarizona #brokenarrowtrail #lifeofadventure #5thgenbuild #5thgen4runner #offroad #4runner #toyotausa #grow #followforfollowback #yotamafia #yota_nation #trd #yota - - @mickeythompsontires @cbioffroad @fueloffroad @nguyen_works @knotical_ventures @diodedynamics @morimotolighting @cali_raised_led @dr_kdss @4runnerli...
d3rty_panda
92 likes • 1.2K views
3 reasons you need to ride Broken Arrow Trail👇 This Sedona trail feels like a natural obstacle course. Broken Arrow delivers a ton in a short ride. 1. Narrow lines with exposure 2. Ledge features that are fun and rideable 3. Quick access from town so you can hit it without a full day plan Follow for more spots with variety like this!🚴🏻‍♂️🔥 #sedona #sedonaarizona #sedonaaz #colorado #colo...
rowdytrails
438 likes • 21.4K views

📱 Use Navigation Apps

Essential for off-roading, especially for tricky sections like Devil's Staircase. Reddit

⚠️ Be Trail Aware

Watch for hikers, tour jeeps, and wildlife. Safety first! Reddit

Today, we announced that the Broken Arrow Skyrace 23k will be part of the 2025 Golden Trail World Series, powered by Salomon. If you are not familiar with the @goldentrailseries it is the preeminent sub-ultra race series in the world. The Golden Trail World Series exists to celebrate and evolve trail running as a sport, and stands out in the modern sports world respecting unique values like pari...
brokenarrowskyrace
327 likes • 7.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Rent an Off-Road Vehicle

For the full experience, rent a Jeep or UTV! Many find it more fun than hiking. Instagram+5

🥾 Hike to Chicken Point

A popular and rewarding hike with 360° views. Great for photos! Reddit

📱 Use Navigation Apps

Essential for off-roading, especially for tricky sections like Devil's Staircase. Reddit

⚠️ Be Trail Aware

Watch for hikers, tour jeeps, and wildlife. Safety first! Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

The scenery is breathtaking! Bring your camera for endless photo ops. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(719 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the stunning 360° views and the peaceful, scenic nature of Broken Arrow Trail, calling it a 'great hidden gem.' Many enjoy the thrill of off-roading, even if they are beginners, and find the trail more manageable than expected. The hike to Chicken Point is highly recommended for its beauty and photo opportunities.

"What a wonderful hike! The parking lot was only about half full at about 10am on a Saturday, it’s a great hidden gem. We did broken arrow to the chapel and made it a big loop. So many times we said “wow it’s a 360° beautiful view”. We couldn’t stop taking photos, it was so peaceful and scenic, I highly recommend."

Stephanie Card

"Wife and I came to Sedona do some hiking for a long weekend. We ended up renting a Jeep Rubicon for the fun of it, then realized there are some off road trails we could do. We have never done any off roading before. We read up on Broken Arrow and thought we may not be experienced enough. We ended up saying screw it and let's go for it. We drove up to Chicken Point and back on 4 High with sway bar disconnected. We had no issues what so ever and loved it. We did not do Devil's Staircase as we aren't experienced. Overall we had a blast with no issues. Wasn't as difficult as we thought it would be."

Donald Boyle

"I made a mistake when scheduling the routes. I used part of the Jeep road as a shortcut. Actually, you should not. These are busy roads for pink jeep carrying tourists having fun on bumpy rocky roads. Kinda not safe for both if you use the Jeep route. The target for this trail is the Chicken Point and Submarine Rock. It is an easy trail. Standing on top of submarine rock was fun, especially when we hiked in the rain. By the way, I think it is the hardest one among Dry Creek Road (to Devils Bridge, 1 mile/one way) and Schnebly Hill Road (to Mary go Round Rock, 3 mile/one way) if you want to drive yourself."

Zhong Shang

What People Like

Stunning 360° views
Peaceful and scenic
Fun off-road experience

What People Dislike

Can be crowded
Devil's Staircase is challenging

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Broken Arrow Trail is easily accessible from Sedona. The trailhead is located off Morgan Road. Many visitors opt to rent off-road vehicles like Jeeps or UTVs in town to tackle the trail. For hikers, parking can be found near the trailhead, but it fills up quickly on weekends. Instagram+1

Yes, there is a parking lot at the trailhead. However, it's known to fill up, especially on weekends and during peak season. Arriving early is highly recommended if you plan to hike or drive your own vehicle. Reddit

Most of Broken Arrow Trail is an OHV (Off-Highway Vehicle) route and is not suitable for standard passenger cars. High-clearance 4x4 vehicles are recommended for the more challenging sections. Some parts are accessible for hiking. Reddit

Absolutely! Pink Jeep Tours and other companies offer guided off-road tours on Broken Arrow Trail. This is a popular option for those who don't have their own off-road vehicle or prefer a guided experience. Reddit

For hiking, you can access parts of Broken Arrow from trailheads like Mystic or Chapel. These allow you to connect to the trail and hike towards Chicken Point or Submarine Rock without needing an off-road vehicle. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No permit or ticket is required for hiking Broken Arrow Trail. However, if you plan to use an off-road vehicle, you may need to pay for parking or a day-use fee depending on the specific access point and regulations. Reddit

Broken Arrow Trail is generally open from sunrise to sunset. However, specific access points or tour operators might have their own operating hours. It's always best to check local information before your visit. Reddit

Prices for Pink Jeep Tours vary depending on the tour duration and type. Expect to pay anywhere from $70 to over $100 per person for a guided off-road adventure on Broken Arrow Trail. Reddit

Yes, it is highly recommended to book Pink Jeep Tours in advance, especially if you are visiting during peak season or on a weekend. This ensures you get your preferred time slot. Reddit

While the trail itself is generally free to use with your own capable vehicle, some parking areas or access points might have associated fees. It's wise to check for any posted signs or local advisories. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The difficulty varies greatly. Hiking sections are generally moderate. The off-road portions, especially Devil's Staircase, are considered difficult and require high-clearance 4x4 vehicles and experience. Reddit+1

Key highlights include Devil's Staircase for off-roaders, Chicken Point for stunning panoramic views, and Submarine Rock for unique formations. InstagramReddit+1

While some parts are manageable for beginners with 4x4s (like driving to Chicken Point), Devil's Staircase is definitely not for beginners. Guided tours are a great option for those new to off-roading. InstagramReddit

For hikers, a round trip to Chicken Point can take 2-3 hours. For off-roaders, the time can vary significantly based on the route taken and challenges encountered, often ranging from 2-4 hours. Reddit

Wear sturdy hiking shoes or off-road appropriate footwear. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, a hat, and snacks. For off-roading, ensure your vehicle is equipped for the terrain. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The entire trail offers incredible photo ops! Chicken Point provides sweeping red rock vistas, while Submarine Rock offers unique geological formations. The dramatic landscapes are perfect for capturing stunning shots. InstagramReddit

Yes, weekday evenings are ideal for sunset photography as crowds thin out and the red rocks glow in the golden hour light. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. If you're interested in off-roading action shots, a telephoto lens can be useful. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions. Reddit

Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check with the local authorities or the Sedona Ranger District for current rules regarding drone usage in the area to avoid any fines or issues. Reddit

Definitely! If you're on a tour or driving yourself, there are many opportunities to capture exciting off-roading moments, especially on challenging sections like Devil's Staircase. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Broken Arrow Trail offers a great adventure for families. While the off-road sections are best left to guided tours or experienced drivers, hiking to Chicken Point is a fantastic family-friendly activity. The relatively moderate terrain makes it manageable for most children, and the stunning views will keep them engaged. Reddit

Consider booking a Pink Jeep Tour for a thrilling ride that kids will absolutely love. These tours are designed to be exciting and safe, with knowledgeable guides who can point out interesting geological features and local flora. Ensure you pack plenty of snacks and water, as the desert can be dehydrating, and wear comfortable shoes for exploring. Instagram+1

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, hiking Broken Arrow Trail is an excellent free activity. The main cost would be transportation to the trailhead and perhaps parking fees if applicable. Packing your own food and water will save you money compared to dining out. Reddit

If you're keen on experiencing the off-road aspect without the expense of renting a Jeep for a full day, consider joining a shorter Pink Jeep Tour or looking for shared ride options. Some local operators might offer more budget-friendly tours, especially during off-peak times. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Broken Arrow Trail is a photographer's dream, offering endless opportunities to capture the iconic Sedona red rocks. The panoramic vistas from Chicken Point are unparalleled, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. Don't miss the unique formations like Submarine Rock for dramatic shots. Reddit

For off-road photography, aim for action shots on challenging sections like Devil's Staircase. Weekday evenings are ideal for fewer crowds and softer light. Remember to bring a wide-angle lens for landscapes and consider a telephoto lens for capturing details or wildlife. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Off-Roading the Broken Arrow Trail

Broken Arrow Trail is a premier destination for off-road enthusiasts, offering a thrilling experience with its rugged terrain and challenging obstacles. The trail is renowned for its steep descents, like the infamous Devil's Staircase, which requires significant skill and a capable 4x4 vehicle. Many visitors opt for guided tours, such as those offered by Pink Jeep Tours, to navigate these demanding sections safely and enjoyably. Instagram+4

For those driving their own vehicles, high-clearance 4x4s with features like disconnecting sway bars are highly recommended. Popular spots for off-roaders include Chicken Point, which offers a fantastic turnaround and incredible views, and Submarine Rock, a unique geological formation. It's crucial to be prepared, carry essential recovery gear, and understand your vehicle's capabilities. Using navigation apps like AllTrails can also be invaluable for identifying the best lines and avoiding hazards. Reddit+1

Even if you're new to off-roading, parts of the trail can be accessible and fun. Many Redditors share that driving to Chicken Point in 4-High with the sway bar disconnected was manageable and enjoyable for first-timers. However, it's always advised to err on the side of caution and avoid sections that seem beyond your skill level, especially during wet conditions when the trail can become significantly more dangerous. Reddit+1

Hiking and Biking the Broken Arrow Trail

Beyond its off-road reputation, Broken Arrow Trail is a fantastic choice for hikers and mountain bikers seeking stunning red rock scenery. The trail offers a more moderate experience compared to the off-road routes, with well-defined paths leading to breathtaking viewpoints. A popular hiking destination is Chicken Point, which provides expansive 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape and is a perfect spot for a picnic or a photo session. Reddit

Hikers can access Broken Arrow from trailheads like Mystic or Chapel, allowing for a scenic loop that connects to other trails in the area. The trail is known for its accessibility, with many sections being relatively easy to navigate. Mountain bikers also find the trail enjoyable, with its natural obstacles and varied terrain offering a fun ride. Instagram+2

When hiking or biking, it's important to be mindful of the off-road traffic, especially during busy periods. Always yield to tour vehicles and be aware of your surroundings. Bringing plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat is essential, as the Arizona sun can be intense. The trail is particularly beautiful in the early morning or late afternoon when the light casts a warm glow on the red rocks. InstagramReddit

The Broken Arrow Skyrace

For the truly adventurous, the Broken Arrow Skyrace offers a unique and challenging trail running experience. This event is part of the prestigious Golden Trail World Series, attracting elite athletes from around the globe. The race takes participants through the rugged and scenic terrain of Sedona, testing their endurance and technical running skills. Instagram

The skyrace features steep climbs, technical descents, and breathtaking views, making it a demanding yet rewarding competition. Runners navigate through the iconic red rock landscapes, experiencing the beauty of Sedona from a different perspective. The event highlights the area's potential for extreme sports and attracts a dedicated community of trail runners. Instagram

While the skyrace is a specific event, it underscores the adventurous spirit of the Broken Arrow area. The trails that host the race are open to the public for hiking and biking, offering a glimpse into the challenging routes that athletes tackle. It's a testament to the diverse recreational opportunities available in Sedona. Instagram

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