Pets allowed
Allowed with Restrictions
Elevation Gain
665.00 ft (202.69 m)
Trail type
Loop
Distance
3.25 mi (5.23 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

The Airport Loop Trail is a hike that circles around Table Top Mountain and the Sedona Airport. From the loop you’ll have views of most all the iconic Sedona red rock formations. The southwestern portion of the trail also traverses right below the main airport runway, and is a fun place to watch for planes.

Limited free parking is available at the Airport Saddle Trailhead. If there are no spots left here you’ll need to continue up Airport Road to the Airport Viewpoint where there is a large lot with paid ($3) parking.

If starting from the free parking lot and trailhead, begin by following the trail as it crosses the road and travels in a counter-clockwise direction. As you hike this northern portion of the loop you’ll have fantastic views across western Sedona and iconic red rock formations including Capitol Butte and Coffee Pot Rock.

The trail then gains elevation as it climbs toward the top of the mesa. The trail here is fairly rocky so be sure to watch your footing. You’ll then begin seeing a high fence on your left that marks the boundary of the airport. As you walk near the fence be sure to have your camera ready to capture any planes landing or taking off!

The trail then skirts around the southern side of Table Top Mountain. You’ll have great views of Highway 179 and more red rock formations in the distance including Courthouse Butte, Bell Rock and Cathedral Rock. Continue following the trail as it leads back to the Vortex area and trailhead.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Spring
Fall

Congestion

High

Parking Pass

Red Rock Pass

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Red rock formation views. Plane watching.

Cons

Trail is quite rocky in areas. Limited parking.

Trailhead Elevation

4,589.00 ft (1,398.73 m)

Highest point

4,738.00 ft (1,444.14 m)

Features

Family friendly
Big vistas
Bird watching

Typically multi-day

No

Suitable for

Biking

Permit required

No

Location

Nearby Lodging + Camping

Red Rock District, Coconino National Forest
Red Rock District, Coconino National Forest

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