Quick Facts:
Location: Coconino National Forest, Sedona, Arizona
Coordinates: 34.845677987400656, -111.75642800292096
Length: 3.5 Miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 400’
Dog Friendly: Yes
Introduction:
The Broken Arrow OHV Route in Coconino National Forest checks every box, stunning views, technical driving, and a front-row seat to Sedona’s famous red rock formations. This isn’t your average dirt road. It’s a playground for Jeeps, ATVs, and 4x4s that want a real challenge, with scenery that feels like something out of a movie.
Getting to Broken Arrow:
Broken Arrow starts just a few minutes from the heart of Sedona. From Highway 179, take Morgan Road east. You’ll quickly hit a dirt parking area near the trailhead. No long detour or remote backroad, just park, prep, and go. Be sure to check signs and maps before starting, especially during busy seasons.
Photo Credit: shawna_golfs
Landscape Description:
This trail serves up jaw-dropping red rock views from the first few minutes. Towering formations like Submarine Rock and Chicken Point rise around you as the trail weaves through slickrock, ledges, and high desert forest. It’s classic Sedona: vibrant red stone, deep blue sky, and scrubby juniper lining the edges. The sun hits the rocks just right at sunrise and sunset.
Trail Difficulty and Length:
Broken Arrow is short at only about 3.5 miles round trip but don’t let that fool you. It’s considered moderately difficult to difficult. Expect tight turns, rock steps, and steep climbs. You’ll need a high-clearance 4×4, and ideally some experience with off-road driving. If you’re new to this kind of terrain, you might want to ride along with one of the local Jeep tours first to scope it out.
Is It Dog Friendly?
Yes, but with a few caveats. Dogs are allowed, but only if they stay in the vehicle. This is not a hiking trail, and the terrain is too rough and dangerous for paws. Keep your dog safe, hydrated, and out of the heat.
Local Rules and Regulations:
You’ll need a Red Rock Pass to park, and it’s smart to check for OHV rules through the Coconino National Forest website before you go. Stay on the trail, don’t carve new lines, and always yield to hikers and bikers. Off-roading in Sedona is a privilege. Keeping it clean and respectful helps keep it open.
Other Trails Nearby:
If you’re craving more dirt after Broken Arrow, check out Schnebly Hill Road for a longer ride with epic views, or the Outlaw Trail for something a little more remote. If you dig hiking, you’re surrounded by some of the best trails in Arizona, Cathedral Rock and Bell Rock are both close by.
Non-Driving Attractions:
Head into Sedona’s downtown for art galleries, crystal shops, and coffee with red rock views. Try a vortex tour if you’re curious about Sedona’s energy scene, or visit Chapel of the Holy Cross for a mix of architecture and awe-inspiring scenery. Slide Rock State Park is also a short drive north and offers a natural water slide if you need to cool off.
Photo Credit: shawna_golfs
Best Time to Visit:
Spring and fall are perfect warm days, cool nights, and fewer crowds than summer. Summer can be brutally hot, especially midday. Winter is quieter, but snow or icy patches can make the rocks slick and dangerous. Sunrise and sunset rides are magical year-round.
Still Want More?
For those who want to capture these breathtaking views and bring a piece of nature home, Unicorn Adventure offers high-quality nature photography prints. Check out their collection and find the perfect image to remind you of your hiking experience!
