View north from midway up Bell Rock

If you only have time for a short hike during your visit to Sedona, consider scrambling up at least part of the way to one of the regon's most notable and accessible red-rock landmarks, Bell Rock, which is just off Highway 179 between the older Uptown section of downtown Sedona and the community of Oak Creek, to the south. Bell Rock is popular because it's easy to reach the trailhead, and it affords stunning views of the red-rock-strewn landscape in every direction. To get here, drive about 5 miles south to this parking area along Highway 179. From here a well-marked trail leads to the base of Bell Rock, from which numerous trails encircle the formation, lead up toward the peak (only very experienced climbers can hike at the top, but you can get about a good way up without any rock-climbing equipment), or lead to nearby formations, including the massive Courthouse Butte.