Long hikes are incredibly rewarding, but not always practical. If you’re in search of a hike that leads to a breathtaking scenic overlook, yet is short enough for a spontaneous adventure, look no further than Airport View Trail. This short-and-sweet trail is one of the best sunrise hikes in Arizona, and it even takes you to an alleged energy vortex.

Welcome to one of the best-kept secrets in Sedona: Airport View Trail.

AllTrails/Kelly Weis Located right near the Sedona Airport - hence the name - the trail boasts some of the most incredible views of the Red Rocks you’ve ever seen.

At just 1.4 miles round-trip, it’s hardly even a trail at all. That’s what makes it so unique!

AllTrails/Sandy Townsend The hike is rated as “moderate” on AllTrails, but it’s well shaded and easy to follow, so feel free to bring the kids along.

Upon reaching the summit, you’ll be blown away at the 360-degree views of the Munds Mountain Wilderness.

AllTrails/Andy Edmiston Long hikes have their time and place, but reaping the same rewards with a fraction of the effort? Yes, please!

While the trail is gorgeous at any time of day, we recommend visiting at sunrise if you can.

AllTrails/Roy Viloria You haven’t lived until you’ve watched the first hints of daylight peek over the mountains, bathing the sky in an ethereal montage of color.

You won’t encounter many fellow hikers in the early morning hours, so you can ease into the day and revel in the peace and quiet.

AllTrails/Jerome and Jennifer Braga Plus, since it’s such a short hike, you can take all the time you want soaking up the scenery.

Another interesting thing about this particular trail is that it leads to one of Sedona’s famed “energy vortexes.”

AllTrails/Andy Edmiston Believed by some to enhance meditation, healing, and creativity, these sites are scattered throughout the Red Rocks. Who knows? You just might feel something!

There is a large parking lot at the trailhead, and it costs $3 per vehicle. To learn more about the hike, visit its page on AllTrails.

AllTrails/Kelly Weis

Located right near the Sedona Airport - hence the name - the trail boasts some of the most incredible views of the Red Rocks you’ve ever seen.

AllTrails/Sandy Townsend

The hike is rated as “moderate” on AllTrails, but it’s well shaded and easy to follow, so feel free to bring the kids along.

AllTrails/Andy Edmiston

Long hikes have their time and place, but reaping the same rewards with a fraction of the effort? Yes, please!

AllTrails/Roy Viloria

You haven’t lived until you’ve watched the first hints of daylight peek over the mountains, bathing the sky in an ethereal montage of color.

AllTrails/Jerome and Jennifer Braga

Plus, since it’s such a short hike, you can take all the time you want soaking up the scenery.

AllTrails/Andy Edmiston

Believed by some to enhance meditation, healing, and creativity, these sites are scattered throughout the Red Rocks. Who knows? You just might feel something!

Have you ever embarked on the Airport View Trail? Do you have any other favorite sunrise hikes in Arizona? Tell us your thoughts in the comments section below! Check out our previous article for more awe-inspiring Grand Canyon State sunrises.

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Address: Sedona, AZ 86336, USA