If there’s one thing that we love more than a red rock hike, it’s a hike when the red rocks have been dusted with snow. There’s something undeniably magical about seeing those red rocks blanketed with crisp, white powder. And one of our favorite snowy hikes? The classic 3.3 miles long Airport Loop Trail.
This relatively easy loop trail offers stunning and unobstructed views of every major red rock formation – making it a classic Sedona trail. The hike starts just past the parking lot. From the saddle, turn right and then make a left to follow the trail. The trail is relatively narrow and hugs the edge of the mesa – meaning you’ll have to hike single file if you’re in a group. You’ll quickly spot Courthouse Butte and Bell Rock. At 1.6 miles, Airport Loop intersects with Table Top trail. Veer right here. Eventually, you’ll come across a unique vantage point of Cathedral Rock and maybe even Oak Creek. Later on, you can spot Mingus Mountain and Cockscomb Butte. Leave time to stop, catch your breath, and take gorgeous photos.
Being by the airport, expect to hear motors rumbling and planes taking off and landing. Large swaths of the hike are beside the airport’s chain-link fence, giving this trail an industrial feel. After 2.39 miles, you’ll reach the Bandit Trail. Stay right. At 2.42 miles, the trial intersects with the Sunset Trail. Stay straight. The trail ends at a guardrail on Airport Mesa Road, just across from the parking lot.
One of our other favorite parts of this trail? Hike up and back down the Sedona View Trail – a 1.2 miles total hike – for fantastic views from the Scenic Airport Lookout. You’ll love this short and sweet detour.
