Location: Coconino National Forest, Sedona, AZ
Distance: 3.5 miles
Type: Loop
Rating: Moderate
Dog Friendly?: Yes, on a leash
Permits & Fees: Many hikes in Sedona require a Red Rock’s Pass. These passes can be purchased via this website or by using a credit card at various trailheads. It’s $5 for a day pass, $15 for a 7-day pass, or $20 for a year pass.
Driving Directions to Trailhead: The Sedona Shuttle is not available for this hike. Instead, there is a spacious parking lot at the trailhead. Click HERE for directions.
Preparation: Water and sunscreen!
The Hike:
AllTrails Map – CLICK HERE
After parking at the lot, locate the trailhead sign and take a right up towards the clay steps:
Continue on the Lower Chimney Trail until the fork is reached. Take the path towards the right; this is the start of the Thunder Mountain Trail:
Continue on the trail for about a mile. Another fork will be reached; this is the start of the Andante Loop. The Andante Trail parking lot is shortly after this point. Cross the parking lot to continue on the Andante Loop Trail:
The Andante Loop portion of the trail offers the best views of the landscape!
About half way through the loop, another fork is reached; take a left to stay on the Andante Loop Trail. The trail to the right leads to the Teacup Trail and Sugarloaf Summit:
The end of the loop is marked by the same fork that connects to Thunder Mountain Trail. Take the Thunder Mountain Trail to the Lower Chimney Trail, which leads back to the parking lot.
Enjoy the hike!