Exploring the Birthing Cave in Sedona

The Birthing Cave is one of Sedona’s most iconic hiking destinations. This awe-inspiring site captivates visitors with its unique geological shape and spiritual significance. Situated within Sedona’s red rock wilderness, the Birthing Cave offers a short but rewarding hike, panoramic views, and a serene atmosphere that makes it a draw for those seeking both adventure and a moment of reflection. Its distinctive cave-like formation and cultural history add another layer of intrigue to this unforgettable destination.

Adventure Guide to the Birthing Cave

Trailhead and Route Details
Begin your journey at the Long Canyon Trailhead, located about 15 minutes from downtown Sedona. The hike is approximately 2 miles round-trip, making it suitable for most skill levels. Follow the Long Canyon Trail for about 0.6 miles, then take the unmarked path to your left, leading directly to the cave. The total elevation gain is roughly 300 feet, making it a moderate hike. Comfortable shoes and a GPS-enabled app are recommended as the side trail is easy to miss.
What Makes the Birthing Cave Unique?
The cave’s natural arch-like structure creates a photogenic alcove that frames Sedona’s red rock formations beautifully. It is also associated with ancient cultural traditions and is believed by some to have spiritual or healing properties. The acoustics inside the cave make it a peaceful spot for meditation, yoga, or simple quiet contemplation.
Key Features
Inside the cave, the panorama stretches out to showcase Sedona’s stunning red rock vistas. Its distinct curved shape provides a shaded, cool retreat, even on sunny days. This makes it one of the most comfortable spots to relax mid-hike while soaking in the surroundings.

Local Insights

The Birthing Cave is believed to have been used by Native American women during childbirth ceremonies, giving it its name. Its cultural and historical roots make it a place of deep respect. Visitors are encouraged to treat the area with the utmost care.

Visitor Tips

Best Time to Visit
Early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and optimal lighting for photography.
What to Bring
Sturdy walking shoes, plenty of water, sun protection, and your camera.
Driving Directions
From Sedona, take Dry Creek Road to Long Canyon Road. The Long Canyon Trailhead is at the end, about a 15-minute drive.

Reviews

Jenn Grein (Jenn Grein)a month ago

Nice hike in, lots of people on the path. Busy place, but as expected. Well cared for, which is really nice to see! Have fun visiting with other travellers, we ended up chatting with someone who turned out to live about an hour from our home in Canada! Love how paths cross! Enjoy!

Rebekah N4 months ago

This is a fairly flat hike until the end, getting up to the crevice. When approaching the hike, about 0.5 in, there is a “trail” sign that points right. Don’t listen to it, go left where all the boot marks lead. And just follow the clear path to the cave! We got there early around 8am and were fortunate enough to not have anyone there. I would definitely suggest getting there early.

Brook Baum2 weeks ago

Several caves along the way if you want to hike high enough. After the Birth cave itself, if you keep on going, you can actually get on top of the birth cave. I consider it a moderate hike. Views are OK. Mostly you just see the tops of trees, but it’s really cool when you’re on the peak of a mountain like that cause you can see down on both sides.

Rizzy Ranaa week ago

Pretty good hike, nice views but I got lost on the way down because they’re were like 20 different trails. How did pregnant women get up this hill? Too steep, poorly marked. Good views however. No good parking and nearly damaged car when we parked on dirt.

Mike Vandermus3 weeks ago

Cool cave but not really all cave. Confirmed that when a family with like a 6 or old came in and the first thing he said was "dad there's no cave!" 🤣😂 That being said, it is kind of cool. You can bike almost the entire thing until the last 100 ft where there is some basic rock scrambling. It is more difficult than it looks to get in the tiny hole at the top but it can be done and the view and picture is worth it!

Hiking

Exploring the Birthing Cave in Sedona