Coffee Pot Rock
Iconic red rock formation resembling a coffee pot, accessible via the scenic Teacup Trail in Sedona.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Coffee Pot Rock
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic red rock formation resembling a coffee pot, accessible via the scenic Teacup Trail in Sedona.
"Coffee pot rock is a Sedona icon. Featured in many Movies and TV shows. Great picture opportunities."
🎯 Hike Teacup Trail
This 3-mile trail offers amazing 360 views and leads to Coffee Pot Rock. Less touristy!
📸 Great Photo Ops
The rock formation is an icon, perfect for capturing Sedona's beauty. Sunrise shots are stunning!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Coffee Pot Rock Formation
Teacup Trail
Iconic red rock spire resembling a classic coffee pot, offering incredible photo ops.

Teacup Trail Views
Coconino National Forest
A less crowded 3-mile hike with breathtaking 360-degree red rock panoramas.
Sunrise Spectacle
North side of West Sedona
Witness the red rocks glow with warm hues during a magical early morning display.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Timing is Key
Respect the Red Rocks
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Hike Teacup Trail
This 3-mile trail offers amazing 360 views and leads to Coffee Pot Rock. Less touristy!
📸 Great Photo Ops
The rock formation is an icon, perfect for capturing Sedona's beauty. Sunrise shots are stunning!
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The terrain can be uneven. Comfortable hiking boots are recommended for exploring.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Arizona sun is intense. Stay hydrated on the trail, especially during warmer months.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Hike Teacup Trail
This 3-mile trail offers amazing 360 views and leads to Coffee Pot Rock. Less touristy!
📸 Great Photo Ops
The rock formation is an icon, perfect for capturing Sedona's beauty. Sunrise shots are stunning!
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The terrain can be uneven. Comfortable hiking boots are recommended for exploring.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Arizona sun is intense. Stay hydrated on the trail, especially during warmer months.
🚫 Stay on Trails
Protect the delicate desert environment. Avoid climbing unstable parts of the rock.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the iconic Coffee Pot Rock formation and the scenic Teacup Trail, praising the stunning red rock views and photo opportunities. While some found the higher ridges windy and inaccessible, most enjoyed picnicking at the base and exploring the surrounding trails. The formation's resemblance to a classic coffee pot is a consistent highlight.
"What an amazing hike up to and around coffee pot trail. We thought we could walk along the higher ridge of the rock formation, but it got really windy and doesn’t go all the way through.
So we sat at the base and ate our lunch and watched the little clouds puff by before taking other trails. 🤩"
Zachary Stafford
"I know- a 24 yr. old nowadays would probably say, “That doesn’t look like a Keurig..”, but it sure as heckfire looks like a regular, old fashioned coffee pot. Very cool formation!"
Eddie Wexler
"Coffee pot rock is a Sedona icon. Featured in many Movies and TV shows."
John White
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Coffee Pot Rock is accessible via the Teacup Trail, located in Coconino National Forest on the north side of West Sedona. You can typically drive to a trailhead parking area. Many visitors use their own car, as it's a popular spot for day trips.
Parking is available at the Teacup Trailhead, but it can fill up quickly, especially during peak hours and weekends. Arriving early is highly recommended.
Public transportation options directly to the trailhead are limited. Renting a car or using ride-sharing services is generally more convenient for reaching Coffee Pot Rock and its surrounding trails.
Using a reliable GPS app or a physical trail map is advised. The Teacup Trail is well-marked, but having navigation can help you explore other connecting paths.
The access roads and parking areas are generally designed for standard vehicles. Larger RVs might find parking challenging, especially at popular trailheads.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, hiking the Teacup Trail and viewing Coffee Pot Rock does not require a specific ticket. However, if you plan to park in certain areas of Coconino National Forest, a Red Rock Pass may be required. Check current regulations before your visit.
The trails in Coconino National Forest are typically open from sunrise to sunset. There are no set operating hours for viewing the rock formation itself, but access to the trailhead parking may be restricted after dark.
There is no entrance fee for the Teacup Trail itself. However, parking fees or a Red Rock Pass might be applicable depending on the specific trailhead or parking area you use.
Yes, many local tour operators in Sedona offer guided hikes that include Coffee Pot Rock and other nearby attractions. This can be a great option if you want to learn more about the area's geology and history.
No, there are no age restrictions for hiking the Teacup Trail. It's considered a family-friendly hike, though younger children may need assistance on some sections.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Teacup Trail to Coffee Pot Rock is generally considered an easy to moderate hike, around 3 miles roundtrip. Some sections involve rocky terrain, but it's manageable for most fitness levels.
Most visitors spend about 1.5 to 2 hours on the Teacup Trail, allowing time for photos and enjoying the scenery. Some may extend their hike to explore connecting trails.
You'll be treated to stunning 360-degree views of Sedona's iconic red rock formations, including Sugarloaf Summit and the surrounding landscape.
Absolutely! Coffee Pot Rock is a photographer's dream, especially during sunrise and sunset when the red rocks are bathed in golden light.
Restroom facilities are not always available directly at the Teacup Trailhead. It's advisable to use facilities before you arrive or be prepared for primitive conditions.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, West Sedona has numerous restaurants and cafes offering various cuisines. Uptown Sedona also has many dining options, though it's a short drive away.
Picnicking is allowed in designated areas near the trailhead or along the trail. Remember to pack out all trash to keep the area clean.
Many visitors enjoy places like The Vault Uptown for lunch with a view, or exploring the diverse eateries in West Sedona for a casual meal after your hike.
No, there are no food vendors directly on the Coffee Pot Rock trail. It's best to bring your own snacks and water or plan to eat before or after your hike.
While there might not be a coffee shop directly at the trailhead, West Sedona has several cafes where you can grab a coffee before or after your hike.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photographing Coffee Pot Rock, making the red rocks glow. Mid-day can be harsh, but still offers great views.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive red rock landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating the unique formations. Don't forget a tripod for low-light conditions.
Drone usage is restricted in many areas of Sedona, including within Coconino National Forest, due to regulations protecting wildlife and visitor experience. Always check current FAA and local park rules before flying.
The base of the rock formation offers classic shots. For wider vistas, hike up the Teacup Trail for panoramic views of the surrounding red rock country.
While tempting, climbing on the rock formation is discouraged due to safety and environmental concerns. Stick to designated viewpoints for the best and safest photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and water, as there are no facilities along the trail. Consider bringing a small backpack for kids to carry their own essentials. The relatively easy terrain means they can focus on the fun of discovery rather than struggling with a difficult climb.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
Arrive early to beat the crowds and enjoy the tranquility. Consider downloading an offline map of the area, as cell service can be spotty. The moderate difficulty makes it a rewarding hike without being overly strenuous, allowing you to focus on the experience.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Bring your wide-angle lens for sweeping vistas and consider a tripod for those golden hour shots. While climbing the rock is discouraged, the Teacup Trail provides numerous elevated viewpoints for unique compositions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Teacup Trail Experience
Many hikers enjoy the sense of discovery on this trail, as it winds through juniper and pinyon pine forests before opening up to expansive vistas. The trail is also known for its beautiful wildflowers during the spring months, adding an extra layer of charm to the experience.
While the trail itself is rewarding, its primary draw is its proximity to Coffee Pot Rock. The path provides excellent vantage points for photographing this iconic formation from various angles, making it a favorite for both casual walkers and photography enthusiasts.
Understanding Coffee Pot Rock's Geology and Significance
Beyond its geological interest, Coffee Pot Rock holds cultural significance and has been a backdrop in various movies and TV shows, further cementing its status as a Sedona icon. Its recognizable silhouette makes it a popular subject for artists and photographers alike, capturing the essence of the Arizona landscape.
Visitors often find themselves drawn to the interpretive aspect of the rock, with some seeing it as a teapot and others as a coffee pot, depending on their perspective and the trail they approach it from. This playful interpretation adds to its charm and makes it a memorable landmark for all who visit.
Capturing the Perfect Shot: Photography Tips
When composing your shots, consider using a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of the entire formation and the surrounding landscape. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details of the rock or capturing distant formations. Don't forget a tripod if you plan to shoot during low-light conditions or for sharper, more detailed images.
While the temptation to climb on the rock for a unique perspective might be strong, it's crucial to prioritize safety and environmental preservation. Stick to marked trails and designated viewpoints. Many visitors find that the most compelling shots are achieved from the base of the rock or from the vantage points offered along the Teacup Trail.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit