Sport climbing at Coconino Wall offers adventure seekers a perfect combination of technical challenges, stunning desert scenery, and a unique climbing experience in Sedona, Arizona. Known for its gorgeous sandstone formations and rich climbing history, the Coconino Wall showcases Sedona as a standout climbing destination. Located within Red Rock Country, this site is an ideal choice for enthusiasts who crave a mix of challenging climbs and breathtaking views.
Adventure Guide to Sport Climbing at Coconino Wall
Coconino Wall Overview
This climbing spot offers routes that are primarily single-pitch sport climbs, ranging in difficulty from 5.10 to 5.12. Its vertical sandstone panels provide sharp handholds and technical foot placements, making it perfect for intermediate and advanced climbers. The wall’s positioning offers sweeping views of Sedona’s red rock canyons, creating a dramatic backdrop.
Popular Routes
Climbers frequently praise routes like "Cactus Cooler" (5.10c) for its enjoyable mix of balance and power moves. For those seeking a slightly tougher challenge, check out "Riparian Dream" (5.11a), which features amazing sequences on crisp, pocketed sandstone. Advanced climbers looking to push themselves often tackle "Prickly Pear Express" (5.12b), with its overhung start and technical crux moves requiring precision.
What Makes It Unique
The Coconino Wall stands out due to its excellent rock quality, well-bolted routes, and manageable approach, which is roughly a 15-minute hike from the parking area. The wall is also oriented in a way that provides shade in the morning, making it a great summer climbing option. Its relatively quiet atmosphere makes it a hidden gem compared to other busier spots around Sedona.
Local Insights
The sandstone in this area can be fragile after rainfall. Always wait at least 24-48 hours after precipitation to climb and prevent damaging the routes.
The Coconino Wall is part of the ancient geology of Sedona, shaped over millions of years by erosion, giving it its distinctive reddish hue.
Visitor Tips
Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall are ideal due to moderate temperatures. Morning shade is perfect for summer climbs.
What to Bring: Helmet, ample water, sunscreen, and climbing shoes with good edging capabilities. A 60-meter rope is typically sufficient.
Getting There: Drive west from Sedona on Highway 89A, turning into the designated parking area near Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness. The approach takes about 15 minutes by foot.
Reviews
Dennis Marsalek3 years ago
11/2021 great to get out and enjoy some fresh air. Went 4x4 and had a blast on the Outlaw trail. Didn't see any trash, I know the local groups spend considerable time taking care of the area, so please "pack it out".
Josh5 years ago
In my opinion, this is Sedona's best wilderness area. The landscape is extremely dynamic, the trails allows one to see most of the wilderness area, and it offers great backpacking with year round water.
If you get away from the touristy spots (Devil's Bridge, Sterling Pass via 89a, Boynton Canyon, Long Canyon, Fay Canyon, Mescal Loop) you'll be provided with unmatched solitude compared to other areas/parks hosting up to 5 million visitors a year.
The micro-enviroments that exists within this wilderness area can leave one asking, "Where am I?"
You can begin a hike in mesquite dotted grasslands and travel uphill through chaparral scrub, pinon-juniper forest, oak and Cypress groves, towering ponderosa pines, and end up in a north facing canyon cove providing a sanctuary for fir trees, hanging ferns, and a variety of wildflowers more commonly found on the slopes of a sub-alpine environment.
If you're a social hiker Chuck Wagon to HS or Secret Canyons is a great hike.
If you have a capable 4x4 the Dry Creek, Bear Sign, David Miller, Secret Canyon loop is unmatched.
If you're a weekend warrior, take Loy Canyon to the end of Secret Mtn. for views into Boynton Canyon and the entire Dry Creek basin, the heart of Sedona's red rock country. This is a massive day hike or great 2-3 day backpacking trip.
If you're an experienced off-trail hiker this area offers unlimited adventures.
Hope this was helpful to you. Don't hesitate to give it a "like" if it provided value.
Please learn about and practice Leave-No-Trace backcountry ethics.
Thanks and have fun out there!
Susie Leggetta year ago
Hiked the canyon trail but took a detour to the “subway” cavern. Unbeatable views but DEFINITELY go in the early morning to avoid extreme temps (at least during the summer). Also, don’t forget your bug spray.
Eduardo Macea year ago
This wonderful trail has a parking lot at the beginning of the path. The trail begins in Sedona and leads into one of the local mountain summits in the Coconino National Forest. The path as the Forest are dog friendly and well kept. The views from the red rocks into the Sedona valley are breathtaking. When we went in fall the weather was perfect with the trees and sun most days.
Daryl Gregory7 years ago
The whole area is wonderful. You can buy a pass that lets you hike/park at all the main sites. The views are incredible. Something to plan for - the landscape transforms at sunrise and sunset. It's hard to explain, but it is worth the effort to visit right before sunset, so you can see the landscape transform before your eyes. Hikes are pretty easy. Some trails are long. Make sure you register if your going out all day. It's dry. Bring extra water.
