Brins Mesa and Soldier’s Pass: Walking with our ancestors
The Brins Mesa to Soldier’s Pass Loop is one of the finest hikes in Sedona. Sweeping views of the Red Rock-Secret Canyon Wilderness, hidden natural arches, the Devil’s Kitchen, the Seven Sacred Pools, wonderful geology, and fascinating cultural history. The hiking here is easy, pleasant, widly scenic, and for the most part, uncrowded by Sedona standards. Enjoy!
Check out The Goat’s Blog for more info, tips, and tricks about hiking in Sedona
Soldier’s Pass/Brins Mesa Hiking Information
Distance: Variable. Hike can be approached from the Brins Mesa trailhead or Soldier’s Pass trailhead, and can be done as a loop backpacking trip. From the Soldier’s Pass trailhead it is 0.5 miles to the Seven Sacred Pools.
Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
Best Season to Hike: Fall to Spring, start early in the summer (very warm)
Permits/Gear: None Required for day hiking, but you must purchase a Red Rock Pass to park. Passes can be purchased at kiosks near trailheads. No special gear is required
What’s the Deal?: This outstanding loop hike, which can be fashioned into a multi-day backpacking trip, is simply one of the finest hikes in Sedona. Sweeping views of Red Rock Country? Check. Water? Check. Natural features such as arches, a giant sinkhole, a cave, and massive cliffs? Check. Relaxed, pleasant hiking? Check. This one has it all.
Soldier’s Pass is named for its initial use, simply as a route taken by horseback soldiers in the late 1800s connecting the small settlement that would become Sedona, and backcountry trading stations such as Flagstaff, Cottonwood, and Prescott.
The Seven Sacred Pools were utilized by generations of the Sinagua people, early inhabitants of the area. The pools were seen as very special given that they contained water year-round, even in the dead heat of the desert summers.
More Information: Call our office at 602-904-2536 for information regarding guides and hiking
How to Get There: (Soldier’s Pass Trailhead) From the “Y” in uptown Sedona, head west on HWY 89A to Soldier’s Pass road. Go 1.5 miles to Rim Shadows Drive, then right 0.2 miles (keep straight ahead where Rim Shadows branches left) to a gated entry road to trailhead parking on the left.
Ready for an Adventure?
Join Blue Marble Adventure GeoTourism on geology-themed hiking and backpacking adventures! Find the perfect Grand Canyon hiking tour, Utah Canyon Country Tour, Vermillion Cliffs Backpacking or hiking.