Broken Arrow Trail in Sedona

Recently, I met an old friend to hike Broken Arrow Trail to Chicken Point (a funny name for a gorgeous viewpoint) in south Sedona. I had hiked the trail twice before, once in 2012 and again in 2014. The trail had much more sun exposure than I remembered, so I’m glad I returned in winter, while temps were in the high 60s, instead of the hotter months.

The trail takes its name from a nearby subdivision named after a big-budget Western movie filmed there called Broken Arrow. The film starred Jeff Chandler and Jimmy Stewart and was released in 1950. (Many Westerns were shot in and around the Sedona area in the 40’s and 50’s, when the area was much less developed.)

The trail is relatively short, 1.5 miles one way, and has a 300 foot elevation gain, but ascends a bit and then descends a bit as you go along, so there’s no spot that’s super steep. It has much to offer in the way of views both along the trail and at the end. Near the start of the hike, you may spot a sinkhole, called the Devil’s Dining Room, considered a local landmark. Later, you’ll come to a viewpoint of (and a side trail to) Submarine Rock. Hiking around the base of Twin Buttes, you will see some really beautiful spires and other weather-sculpted red rocks, as well as views of Munds Mountain Wilderness. You’ll traverse a good deal of slick rock, where you’ll need to look for cairns to stay on track. Finally, the trail drops down to Chicken Point, which reveals expansive and gorgeous views all around.

There are no toilets and no water at the trailhead or along the hike. Although you will pass some lovely cypress, juniper, and pinyon pines, there is very little shade on the trail. It’s important that you carry enough water/electrolyte drink to make it through 3 hours of heat and dust. The trail is very popular for mountain bikers, and runs alongside a Pink Jeep trail, so paying attention to sights and sounds can help keep you safe.

Many of the reviews and descriptions of the hike I’ve read suggest stopping for a picnic on Chicken Point, but I find it too windy. I’d much rather drive a few miles to a favorite local restaurant, like my friend and I did after the hike, with restrooms, no wind, and plenty of water!

Have you hiked Broken Arrow Trail? Or are you adding it to your list of must-sees when you visit Sedona? If so, let me know in the comments. The history and diversity of beauty on the trail is astounding.

Blessings for the Trail,

Lisa

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