Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness wilderness guide
Wilderness Area · AZ

Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness

Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness is a stunning wilderness area in Arizona known for its vibrant red rock formations, scenic vistas, and diverse ecological landscapes.

Wilderness Area47,1944+ Trails
DesignationWilderness Area
Total Wilderness Area47,194
Elevation / TerrainDiverse Wilderness
Field Editorial Guide

About Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness

Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness is a stunning wilderness area in Arizona known for its vibrant red rock formations, scenic vistas, and diverse ecological landscapes.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Located in the Coconino National Forest, Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness spans over 47,000 acres of Arizona's breathtaking red rock country. This rugged and remote wilderness is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a mix of high desert plateaus and deep canyons, punctuated by the stunning red and orange-hued sandstone formations for which it is famous. The area is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, adapted to the distinct geographical layout and climate of the region. Historically, the land has connections to indigenous cultures, with distinct rock art and archaeological sites adding depth to its natural beauty. Visitors to the wilderness can engage in numerous recreational activities, including hiking, primitive camping, and wildlife viewing, while enjoying iconic vistas like the view from Devil's Bridge, one of the area's natural sandstone arches. Its isolation and challenging terrain make it a unique destination for adventurous visitors seeking solitude and the raw splendor of the American Southwest.

Field Guide · Wilderness Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Devil's Bridge, the largest natural sandstone arch in the Sedona area.✦ The diverse ecosystems that support a variety of plant and animal life, including rare and endemic species.✦ Fay Canyon, known for its natural beauty and relatively easy access.✦ The challenging Bear Mountain Trail, offering expansive views of the surrounding wilderness.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No permits required for day use; some access points may have parking fees.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Manzanita Campground

Located near Oak Creek, offering picnic tables and grills, with reservation opportunities available.

Pine Flat Campground

Situated within Oak Creek Canyon, it provides a forested setting with popular access to the creek.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Sedona, Arizona
⌖ 6.01 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Sedona, Arizona

Sedona's striking red rock vistas and diverse trails make it a top destination for hiking, mountain biking, and more. Its vibrant landscapes offer adventure-seekers a perfect outdoor playground.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Village of Oak Creek, Arizona
⌖ 12.33 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Village of Oak Creek, Arizona

Village of Oak Creek boasts stunning red rock landscapes ideal for hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and photography. It’s a serene desert base near Sedona with access to iconic trails and protected parks perfect for adventure seekers year-round.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Cornville, Arizona
⌖ 15.92 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Cornville, Arizona

Cornville is a hidden gem in the Verde Valley, perfect for hiking, bird watching, and wine tours. The area's red rock views and unique wildlife make it a peaceful retreat for outdoor enthusiasts.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Clarkdale, Arizona
⌖ 16.46 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Clarkdale, Arizona

Clarkdale is a serene Arizona town enriched by the Verde River. Outdoor enthusiasts can relish in hiking, kayaking, and exploring nearby national monuments, all under endless blue skies.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Jerome, Arizona
⌖ 19.84 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Jerome, Arizona

Jerome, AZ is a hillside mining town with rugged desert and mountain trails, perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing. Rich in history and surrounded by protected natural areas, it offers unique outdoor adventures with stunning views year-round.

Fall through Spring
Explore Town
Rimrock, Arizona
⌖ 20.84 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Rimrock, Arizona

Rimrock, AZ, offers a unique desert adventure setting. Explore hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing in serene landscapes with rich history and striking views.

Fall and Spring
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Sedona from Above: Sunset Over the Mogollon Rim
ADVEXPEDITION
Sedona, Arizona
Air TourADV Bookable

Sedona from Above: Sunset Over the Mogollon Rim

A 50-minute, 80+-mile helicopter tour with Apex Air Tours that flies three remote wilderness areas around Sedona and drops into canyons to reveal ancient ruins.

Air TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Page Springs Wine & Dine
ADVEXPEDITION
Page Springs, Arizona
Guided TourADV Bookable

Page Springs Wine & Dine

Spend a day touring three Arizona vineyards with DUKOUT Adventures’ Page Springs Wine & Dine tour, capped by a memorable lunch at Sedona’s Mariposa Grill. Discover the region’s unique wines framed by stunning desert landscapes.

Guided Tour10 HoursCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Hardtail- Full Day Rental ($49)
ADVEXPEDITION
Sedona, Arizona
Bike RentalADV Bookable

Hardtail- Full Day Rental ($49)

Drop into Sedona's red-rock singletrack with a ready-to-ride hardtail and explore Bell Rock Pathway and the Big Park Loop. Perfect for visitors who want low-logistics riding and up-close views of classic sandstone formations.

Bike RentalRestricted to Bell Rock Pathway and Big Park Loop. Full Day: $49Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Secret Wilderness
ADVEXPEDITION
Sedona, Arizona
Air ActivitiesADV Bookable

Secret Wilderness

Explore Sedona’s breathtaking red rock canyons from the air on a thrilling helicopter tour covering Munds Mountain Wilderness, Secret Wilderness Area, and Boynton Canyon. Experience unparalleled views and wildlife sightings on this unforgettable aerial adventure.

Air ActivitiesStarting at $399 • Over 45 miles - 28 - 30 Minuets • All Ages • Up to 6 PeopleCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Quiet Currents: Quantum Touch and Access Bars Energy Healing in Sedona
ADVEXPEDITION
Sedona, Arizona
WorkshopADV Bookable

Quiet Currents: Quantum Touch and Access Bars Energy Healing in Sedona

A 1.5-hour Energy Medicine workshop in Sedona led by Sedona Healing Journey that uses Quantum Touch and Access Consciousness Bars to rebalance chakras and induce deep relaxation—this guide lays out what to expect and the logistics.

WorkshopPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip