Coffee Pot Rock

An unofficial trail leads you under the "spout"of A classic sed ona red rock, where Your cup runneth over with "Grande" views

As large as Starbucks now looms in the American psyche, we've yet to find a natural landmark named Frappuccino Rock. But in Sedona, we still get a buzz any time we look up at majestic Coffee Pot Rock, the formation that's instantly recognizable as a towering red rock lookalike for the classic percolators that kept java-loving cowboys happy on the range – as long as they weren't expecting double mocha lattes.

It's not an official Forest Service trail, but hikers in the know can trek right up under Coffee Pot Rock's "spout" on a two-mile round trip that runs along the base of some of Sedona's most picturesque rocks, where you can pore over some very impressive views. Begin walking at the Sugarloaf trailhead off Buena Vista in West Sedona; follow the signs leading to Sugarloaf Loop and Teacup Trail. The trail climbs gently and, even though you are in a residential neighborhood, you will lose sight of the houses within the first quarter mile. In front of you stands Capitol Butte, more commonly referred to as Thunder Mountain, and its surrounding formations. After less than half a mile you'll reach a junction – turn right on Teacup Trail, which is named for a rock formation on the top of a spire to your left (whoever named it must have had a good imagination or perhaps a few cups of kava tea – it's much harder to discern a "teacup" here than it is to see the "coffee pot"). Go on past the turn-off for Sugarloaf Loop and Sugarloaf Summit and look for a large bush on your left circled by rocks (pictured below) – this is the turn-off for Coffee Pot Rock. The trail is unofficial, but it's well-traveled, wide, and easy to follow. Stay on it as it leads to the base of Thunder Mountain, Teacup Rock, and, finally, Coffee Pot Rock.

The trail takes you along slick rock ledges with a fine view of the towering formations to your left (look for shallow caves – likely the homes of raptor nests – in the rocks) and most of Sedona to your right. See planes land and take- off from Airport Mesa and look for the spires of Cathedral Rock in the distance. Beautifully manicured gated communities with swimming pools, parks, and tennis courts will also come into view. You'll be able to see the Soldier's Pass area to the northwest, as well as Devil's Kitchen, the area's largest sinkhole. The slick rock ledges under the Coffee Pot "spout" are perfect for picnics; in winter, bring a thermos o' joe and let it – and the view – arm your heart.

DIRECTIONS: From Hwy 89A, turn north on Coffee Pot Dr., left on Sanborn Dr., and right on Little Elf Dr., which turns into Buena Vista. The trailhead lot will be immediately on your left. A Red Rock Pass is required to park; passes are not sold at the trailhead.

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