The beginning of the hike isn't that exciting, as you're walking past a big resort complex, but its definitely worth it to make it to the end!! You go through several different terrains - from desert, through a forest (it was raining when we were there, so we felt like we were in a rain forest), to the top of this amazing canyon. The view was spectacular! Definitely my favorite part of our trip to Sedona!!! All in all it took us about 2 hours to get to the canyon and 1 hour to get back.

Like many others, we decided to go on an "easy" scenic hike, as we are weekday desk dwellers who are not in Olympic shape. As others have said, the trail is best after the Enchantment Resort. The last 15 minutes of the hike was definitely not easy, and the trail is definitely longer than 2.5 miles. I felt really sorry for older people and somewhat disabled people who were starting out on the trail with walking sticks, as this would not be an enjoyable hike for them, and could be dangerous. It was a challenge for us (average weight, work out 1-2 times a week), but the views of the canyon and the peaceful silence at the end of the hike made it worth it.

We set out around 10 am on a Friday morning in October. I really like the terrain/scenery change along the way. The areas along red rocks portion really heated up but when we entered the forest, it cooled down drastically, so I would suggest dressing in layers. There is a healthy scramble at the very end to get up above the trees for nice views of the canyon walls.

All info posted on this hike call it "Easy". However, due to the length and the quick scramble at the end, I would not recommend it for people who are getting out for exercise for the first time. It's a bit more than a gentle stroll. Also I have read that it is actually over 3 miles each way, instead of the posted 5 round trip. Of course you could walk in part of the way and head up one of the other trails along the way to shorten the hike.

Also please respect the forest's request to display the Red Rocks pass on your car rear view mirror. There are pass vending machines at most major trail heads.

The first mile or so skirts a resort development and is not very interesting. Once past the resort, the canyon bottom is lush and very pleasant. The trail had some traffic, even at 9am in early October. We had to catch a plane so we turned around before we got to the climb. The side trip up to the ruin is worth the trip if you don’t mind some scrambling.

If you're into more strenuous hiking I'd recommend Bear Mountain trail instead. It has much less traffic, but is exposed and very steep (4 1/2 hours, 1900 feet). The views from the top are spectacular. Also check out the Soldier Pass trail for a more moderate hike with a great view. See the coconino national forest site for detailed trail info.