Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness wilderness guide
Wilderness Area · AZ

Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness

The Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness in Arizona is a stunning landscape of dramatic rock formations, lush canyons, and diverse ecosystems, making it a prime location for outdoor enthusiasts.

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

About Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness

The Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness in Arizona is a stunning landscape of dramatic rock formations, lush canyons, and diverse ecosystems, making it a prime location for outdoor enthusiasts.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness is located in central Arizona, covering approximately 47,194 acres of the Coconino National Forest. Known for its striking red rock formations and lush canyons, this wilderness area features prominent landmarks such as Secret Mountain, Devil's Bridge, and the West Fork of Oak Creek. The region offers a diverse ecology ranging from desert scrub at its lowest elevations to ponderosa pine forests higher up. Historically, this area was home to Native American tribes and features archaeological sites with ancient petroglyphs and ruins. The wilderness is a paradise for outdoor recreation, providing ample opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, and photography. Its scenic beauty and geological diversity draw visitors from around the world, offering solitude and adventure for hikers navigating its challenging trails and hidden canyons.

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, a stunning natural arch and popular hiking destination.✦ West Fork Trail, renowned for a serene canyon setting with seasonal foliage.✦ The Seven Sacred Pools, a series of natural rock formations and pools.✦ Ancient Sinagua cliff dwellings and petroglyph sites.
Wilderness Visuals & Gallery

Visual Guide to Red Rock-Secret Mountain 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
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

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

Some trails require a Red Rock Pass; others may require a special use permit.

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.

Pine Flat Campground

Nestled in Oak Creek Canyon, providing easy access to fishing and hiking opportunities.

Reserve on Recreation.gov
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
⌖ 8.79 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
⌖ 14.45 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
Flagstaff, Arizona
⌖ 16.55 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Flagstaff, Arizona

Flagstaff is a high-altitude playground offering extraordinary hiking, biking, and skiing opportunities. As a certified Dark Sky City, the night skies are just as impressive.

Fall and Winter
Explore Town
Cornville, Arizona
⌖ 20.05 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
Parks, Arizona
⌖ 20.71 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Parks, Arizona

Parks, Arizona offers a peaceful high country escape with forested trails, camping, and fishing access just a short drive from Flagstaff. It’s a great base for exploring northern Arizona’s volcanic landscapes and alpine wilderness.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Clarkdale, Arizona
⌖ 21.23 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
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
Perfect Sedona Tour
ADVEXPEDITION
Sedona, Arizona
Sightseeing TourADV Bookable

Perfect Sedona Tour

Discover Sedona’s stunning red rock formations on a guided land adventure with Perfect Sedona Tour. Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike, this experience offers unique access to some of the area’s most breathtaking viewpoints and hidden gems.

Sightseeing Tour5.5 Hours • 6 Stops • All Ages Welcome!Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Private Wine Crawl Tour Sedona /Page Springs Wine Country 4-12 PPL
ADVEXPEDITION
Sedona, Arizona
Sightseeing TourADV Bookable

Private Wine Crawl Tour Sedona /Page Springs Wine Country 4-12 PPL

Taste the finest wines of Verde Valley while soaking in Sedona’s iconic red rock scenery. AZ Wine Shuttle customizes your private tour for an unforgettable day.

Sightseeing TourA 5 hour private wine tour for up to 12 people • 4-5 stops recommendedCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Red Rock West
ADVEXPEDITION
Sedona, Arizona
Photography TourADV Bookable

Red Rock West

Discover Sedona's stunning west canyons on a private 2-hour photography tour. Capture beautiful landscapes while learning about the area's fascinating history from expert guides.

Photography TourCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip