RT Hangover Trail

A rugged slickrock route climbing steep red rock slopes and narrow ledges to reveal dramatic panoramic views across desert canyons and mesas.

General Information

Length:

Approximately 3 miles round trip

Elevation Gain:

About 800–900 feet

Difficulty:

Difficult

Hours:

Open daily from sunrise to sunset

Fees:

Red Rock Pass required: $5 per vehicle per day
Weekly pass: $15
Annual pass: $20

Pet Policy:

Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a leash; not recommended due to steep and exposed terrain

Closest cities with hotels:

Sedona (1 mi)

Seasons:

Fall, winter, and spring are best; summer is extremely hot and exposed with little shade

Location:

Hangover Trailhead, Sedona, AZ 86336

Website:

fs.usda.gov/recarea/coconino/recreationfs.usda.gov

How to Get There

From Sedona (1 mi): Take AZ-89A through town, turn onto Schnebly Hill Road, and follow it a short distance to access the trailhead area for the hike.

Overview

Among the most exhilarating routes in the region, Hangover Trail traces a daring path across the sloping faces of crimson sandstone, where the terrain itself becomes part of the adventure. The trail rises quickly from the canyon floor, transitioning from a steady climb into stretches of exposed slickrock that hug the contours of the rock formation. Each step reveals expanding views, as the landscape unfolds into a sweeping panorama of mesas, spires, and winding valleys etched into the desert below. The route’s narrow ledges and angled rock surfaces demand careful footing, rewarding those who navigate them with an unmatched sense of elevation and perspective.

What sets this trail apart is its combination of physical challenge and visual drama, offering a front-row seat to the region’s geology while immersing hikers in its raw, sculpted terrain. The experience is intensified by the openness of the surroundings, where uninterrupted vistas stretch toward distant peaks and layered horizons. While the path requires confidence and attention, it delivers a uniquely memorable journey defined by its bold character and the striking beauty of the high desert landscape.

This article uses material from the Wikipedia articles and official tourism pages for the Hangover Trail, AllTrails, and U.S. Forest Service resources, which are released under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share-Alike License 3.0.