Long Canyon is one of the less-traveled canyon hikes in Sedona—not because it lacks anything, but because most people are busy checking off quicker-payoff trails. This one takes more time, and that alone keeps it overlooked.

The trail starts out wide and sandy. About half a mile in, a well-worn social trail branches left toward the oft-visited Birthing Cave— there is a sign saying "Long Cyn" with an arrow facing straight ahead to direct you on the established path. It's a worthwhile short detour if you catch it at a quieter moment.

Beyond the Cave

Most people who take the Birthing Cave spur turn around once they've seen the cave. But if you continue up that same use trail past it, the route quickly summits out on top of Mescal Mountain—and the views up there are exceptional. Red rock formations behind you, the mouths of the canyons opening out below. It's a completely different perspective on this landscape, and almost no one makes it up there.

Off Trail in Long Canyon

Long Canyon is one of the better places in Sedona for deeper off-trail exploration. The main canyon has long side drainages that branch off as you go further in—some substantial enough to make a full day out of. Keep your eyes open for cairns as the canyon narrows; they have a way of leading somewhere worth finding. Experienced hikers who move carefully and leave things undisturbed will find that this canyon gives back generously.

Why this is a good awe walk

No rush, no single destination, no steep push to earn the view. The steady grade and consistent setting make it easy to settle into your own pace—and because most people gravitate toward busier trails, it stays surprisingly quiet even on the busiest days in town.