Secret Slickrock Trail in Sedona: Worth the Hike?
Want a gorgeous view of Cathedral Rock without doing the strenuous Cathedral Rock hike? If so, Secret Slickrock is worth considering. It’s a short, mostly level hike to a large red-rock ledge. It’s especially interesting after rain when reflecting pools can appear or to watch the sunset.
Cathedral Rock Views
Choose Cathedral Rock Trail if you want:
A challenging hike and the experience of climbing Cathedral Rock rather than simply viewing it.
Choose Crescent Moon Ranch if you want:
A flat easy hike to view Cathedral rock, more developed access and parking, shade, swimming, a view of the creek with Cathedral Rock in the background.Choose Secret SlickRock if you want:
A short hike, broad Cathedral Rock views, fewer people, and the possibility of reflecting pools after rain.Secret SlickRock Trail
If you’ve already seen Cathedral Rock from the usual viewpoints and want something different without committing to a long hike, this is the one I’d choose. If you’re looking for a fantastic view of Cathedral Rock at sunset this is also a good choice.
Is it worth visiting? Yes, you have amazing panoramic views from a large red rock ledge above the park.
If you’re hiking Secret Slickrock during the warmer months, bring more water than you think you’ll need and protect yourself from the sun.
It is a short hike, just .8 mile out and back. The best time to visit Secret Slick Rock Trail is to go after a rainfall to see the reflecting pools where rainwater gathers. There is no shade on this trail, so keep that in mind when choosing when to hike.
SlickRock:
Secret SlickRock Directions & Parking
Off of Chavez Ranch Road. Take Red Rock Loop to Chavez Ranch Road for about 3.5 miles to find a small dirt parking lot next to a locked gate. There are about 10-12 parking spots.
Don’t walk down the gravel road, this is not the Secret SlickRock Trail. To find the trail walk across the street from where you parked and look to the right of the gate.
Secret SlickRock Trailhead
Don’t expect to see a sign that says Secret SlickRock. There are no helpful signs to speak of here, hence I guess why it’s a secret. You will see a sign and a path that veers to the right and one that veers to the left. Choose the left path closer to the road.
The trail is short and mostly level, but the surface is rocky and uneven. It is not a smooth, maintained path. You’ll know you’re on the right path because of all of the prickly pear on either side of you.
We saw a lot of lizards too. As you walk you can see the gravel road at first and then it will disappear. There are a few trees, but it is mostly desert scrub on the trail.
Right before you hit the wide red rock ledge you’ll walk down some rocky steps.
Once you step off the steps on to the ledge you have panoramic views of Cathedral Rock and of the Crescent Moon Ranch Park.
My husband and I visited after some summer rain, so there was a couple pools of water when we visited. The reflecting pools are weather-dependent. Go shortly after a good rainfall if that’s what you’re hoping to see. By summer, they can disappear quickly in the Arizona heat.
If you look to your left there are two juniper trees that perfectly frame Cathedral Rock. This is a fantastic place to watch the sunset.
How Long does the Hike Take?
Plan on about 30-45 minutes for the hike itself. If you’re taking photos or watching the sunset add some time for that.
Is Secret Slickrock a good hike for you?
Yes, if you want
- a short hike
- an unobstructed view of Cathedral Rock
- a relatively quiet alternative. Despite the parking lot being full, we only saw one person the trail.
- a sunset location
- a chance to see reflecting pools after rain
No, Skip it if you want:
- a smooth trail
- lots of shade
- creek access
- facilities
- to actually climb Cathedral Rock
Secret Slickrock Map
Sedona Guides
Sedona Tours
Adventurer At Heart
Amber is the writer behind Adventurer At Heart, sharing practical travel advice based on firsthand experience exploring Arizona and beyond. She focuses on hiking, history, scenic drives, and finding places worth your limited vacation time. When she is not traveling, she is gardening.
