The Soldier Pass Arches hike meets all the requirements of a downright perfect day hike. Just three miles round trip. Check. A challenging, but not impossible trail. Check. Gorgeous views and a few fun places to check out. Check. We started our hike at Soldier Pass Trail. The beginning is relatively shaded, and the trail kicks off with two neat attractions.
At .15 miles, you’ll encounter the Devil’s Kitchen − one of Sedona’s largest sinkholes − on the right. A sign explains that this sinkhole, which sits at the base of the Sphinx, formed after rainwater ate away the limestone ceiling of an underground cavern. See large, jagged chunks of limestone piled together. Be careful not to fall in as there’s no fence surrounding it. At .55 miles, you’ll find Seven Sacred Pools. These seven small scoops have naturally formed in the ground and hold water for wildlife. Look forward for views of Coffee Pot here. At about the 1.25 mile mark on the Soldier Pass trail, you’ll find a group of branches lining the ground signaling that there’s more to explore. Turn right and you’ll quickly find yourself on a slickrock ledge in a box canyon and surrounded by good views. Walk across the ledge (cairns or small rock formations may mark the trail in some places) and then turn right onto a well-traveled trail that can be steep, but is short at 0.2 miles. Rocks can dislodge. Mind your footing.
At the end of trail, you’ll see two arches. Head to the second arch or alcove on the right. You’ll see a circular lookout “window” that sits beside that arch. Feeling adventurous? You can even climb up inside the arch and sit in the “window.” Head to the right, underneath of the arch and then scramble up. Footholds are natural. But take your time. Snap some photos in the window or just enjoy the cool, shaded view − it’s like your very own private hideaway. If you’re up for another scramble, head across a ledge inside the arch and then scramble up rocks. From there, you’ll enjoy sweeping Sedona vistas. Climb back down and return the way you came.
