Broken Arrow Trail

This out-and-back trail starts at a well-marked trailhead, quickly heading over toward the Devil's Dining Room Sinkhole before climbing up past Twin Buttes. It ends at a scenic spot called Chicken Point, where you’ll have the option to take a short detour to Submarine Rock before heading back the way that you came. The entire trail takes most people around 2.5 hours to complete.

• This trail is rated as easy, but be aware that there are some small inclines.

• The trail is largely unshaded. Make sure to wear sun protection and pack plenty of water, even on cooler days.

• Note that the trail is used by mountain bikes and hikers. Hikers get right of way but should move over for mountain bikers when possible.

• If you spot a rattlesnake, give it plenty of space and get out of the way quickly.

• There are usually fees for parking, but the Red Rock Ranger District does operate a few fee-free days throughout the year. Check with the Forest Service for details.

The trailhead is located just outside of Sedona, around 30 miles (48 kilometers) south of Flagstaff. To reach the trailhead, you'll need a car. Take Route 179 south from the junction of Route 89A for about 1.4 miles (2.25 kilometers) until you reach Morgan Road. Then continue for around 0.6 miles (1 kilometer) and cross the cattle guard. Trailhead parking is on your left. Prepurchase a Daily Red Rock Pass to park.

The trail is open throughout the year, but hot summer temperatures in July and August might deter some people from hiking it. If you do come in summer, start early to avoid the heat of the day and bring plenty of water. Spring and fall are both great times to hike in the area, with pleasantly cool temperatures, while winters can get quite cold, with temperatures sometimes dropping below freezing.

About a 25-minute drive from Broken Arrow Trail, Boynton Canyon Trail is another easy-rated trail worth checking out. The area is known for its scenery. It offers great views over red-hued canyon lands dotted with pine. It also leads to one of the Sedona area's famous energy vortexes.