Secret Mountain Wilderness, Coconino National Forest wilderness guide
Wilderness Area · AZ

Secret Mountain Wilderness, Coconino National Forest

Secret Mountain Wilderness in Arizona offers striking red rock formations and secluded trails for adventurous hikers seeking solitude in nature.

Wilderness Area15,2294+ Trails
DesignationWilderness Area
Total Wilderness Area15,229
Elevation / TerrainDiverse Wilderness
Field Editorial Guide

About Secret Mountain Wilderness, Coconino National Forest

Secret Mountain Wilderness in Arizona offers striking red rock formations and secluded trails for adventurous hikers seeking solitude in nature.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Located in the Coconino National Forest, Secret Mountain Wilderness spans over 15,000 acres of rugged, undeveloped terrain known for its remarkable red rock formations and scenic vistas. This wilderness area is characterized by its impressive geological features, including towering cliffs and hidden canyons. The land here supports diverse ecosystems ranging from rich ponderosa pine forests to arid desert flora. Established to protect and preserve its unique natural beauty, Secret Mountain Wilderness provides opportunities for hikers and nature enthusiasts to explore its trail network, and those venturing deeper may encounter sparkling streams and glimpses of Native American history scattered throughout the region. The area's relative remoteness and challenging terrain attract those who relish solitude and are willing to venture off the beaten path for rewarding views and experiences.

Field Guide · Wilderness Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Secret Mountain Wilderness, Coconino National Forest

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

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Devil's Bridge — a natural rock arch offering spectacular views.✦ Unique ecosystems transitioning between desert and forest habitats.✦ Ancient petroglyphs and archaeological sites dotted throughout the area.✦ Secret Canyon Trail — a less-trodden path through serene, stunning landscapes.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Secret Mountain Wilderness, Coconino National Forest

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Secret Mountain Wilderness, Coconino National Forest
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Secret Mountain Wilderness, Coconino National Forest
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Secret Mountain Wilderness, Coconino National Forest
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Secret Mountain Wilderness, Coconino National Forest
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

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

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No permits required for general access; permits may be needed for overnight stays.

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 Secret Mountain Wilderness, Coconino National Forest

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

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Secret Mountain Wilderness, Coconino National Forest

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

Sedona, Arizona
⌖ 6.15 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
⌖ 12.46 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
⌖ 16.09 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
⌖ 16.60 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
⌖ 19.98 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
Flagstaff, Arizona
⌖ 20.98 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
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Secret Mountain Wilderness, Coconino National Forest

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