
Little Horse Trail
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
Must-see attractions

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

Little Horse Trail
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps

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

💧 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.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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
The entire 3.7-mile loop
A moderately flat and accessible hike perfect for all ages, offering stunning scenery without extreme difficulty .

Horseback Riding Adventure
Various tour operators
Explore the trails on horseback for a classic Western experience with incredible views .
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Trailhead Access & Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 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.
☀️ 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.
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.
🥾 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.
🐴 Consider a Horse Tour
For a unique perspective, book a horseback riding tour. It's a popular way to experience the trail.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
Yes, many local outfitters offer guided tours, including horseback riding tours, which provide a unique way to experience the trail and its surroundings.
There are no age restrictions for hiking the Little Horse Trail. It's considered family-friendly, making it suitable for hikers of all ages.
🎫 🥾 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.
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.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
🐴 Adventure Seekers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Little Horse Trail: A Hiker's Guide
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.
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. 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. The trail is also a popular route for horseback riding tours, offering an alternative and classic way to experience the landscape.
Horseback Riding on Little Horse Trail
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.
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit