Baldwin Trail

The Baldwin Trail is one of our favorite hidden gems. For one thing, it’s relatively tucked away in the Village of Oak Creek so you can enjoy a fairly secluded hike. For the entire hour we hiked, we only saw one other group of hikers and a handful of mountain bikers on this trial named after one of the former owners of nearby Crescent Moon Ranch. You’ll also see striking views of Cathedral Rock almost right from the get-go. At about 0.33 miles, you’ll descend and get some shade. But that’s short-lived. You’ll want to wear sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses – beginning aside, most of this trail offers no shade. At 0.36 miles, you’ll see a wooden trail sign for Crescent Moon. You can even hear Oak Creek babbling in the distance.

The Village of Oak Creek’s Baldwin Trail is a just over 2-miles long loop trail.

Take this detour if you want to visit the must-see Crescent Moon Ranch. We’ve enjoyed many picnics at this scenic spot where Oak Creek flows nearby. Pack some snacks if you want to bask in the wilderness here. It’s an experience worth savoring. Head right to stay on the Baldwin Trail. We were pleasantly surprised to feel what we thought was sand underneath our feet and see towering Cathedral Rock ahead. At about 0.58 miles, you’ll see a sign for the Templeton Trail. Turn left to eventually reach the summit hike for Cathedral Rock. Be prepared for a tough hike if you take this detour, which is worth it if you’re skilled enough to handle it. Cathedral Rock is Sedona’s most photographed site, and the iconic red rock formation’s namesake trail is challenging but totally rewarding. You’ll be totally surrounded by Sedona’s vibrant red rocks and can take in truly breathtaking views of the area. Head straight to stay on the Baldwin Trail.

A scene from the Baldwin Trail in the Village of Oak Creek. This trail is relatively easy and a great option for bikers and hikers of all skill levels.

From here, you’ll enjoy Cathedral Rock views on your left and will be hiking near a dry creek bed. On your right, see a large red rock formation that’s dotted with greenery. At 1.07 miles, the Baldwin trail intersects with the Hiline Trail. Continue straight. We got a little off trail here. But just remember to head toward the red rock formation on your right. The trail wraps around it. Don’t miss the expansive views of the red rocks of the Village of Oak Creek at this point. They’re breathtaking and a gorgeous reminder of why we hike. You’ll reach a sign for Turkey Creek Trailhead at 2.14 miles. Stay left. Take in views of Thunder Mountain or Capitol Butte in the background as you finish up. Turn left at 2.31 miles to head back to the parking lot. When you reach your vehicle, you’ll have completed a loop trail that’s a little over 2 miles.

The Village of Oak Creek’s Baldwin Trail offers up stellar views of Cathedral Rock.