Soldier Pass Cave is one of Sedona’s “secret caves.” Don’t expect to find any solitude here however, as this secret got out a while ago. In fact one of the main challenges of this trail is parking. A very small, gated lot is available at the trailhead and open from 8 AM - 6 PM. Be sure to arrive here early or late to snag a spot (anyone still in the lot after 6 PM is fine and can exit through the automatic gate that will trigger).
The trail begins by crossing a small wash, and then ascending to the Devil’s Garden Sinkhole. Follow the signs for Seven Sacred Pools from here. Once you’ve arrived at the pools, continue on the singletrack trail (Soldier Pass Trail) to the north.
The singletrack trail continues to the namesake Soldier Pass, but you’ll turn off to the right about 3/4 of a mile past the Seven Sacred Pools. This junction is unsigned and unmarked, however it is a well established path. There may even be some branches laid across the trail, ignore these and veer to the right.
Stay on this trail as it gains elevation and climbs toward the cave. The last few hundred feet are a bit steep.
Soldier Pass Cave looks rather unassuming from the outside, but once inside it is stunning! An easy scramble up the right side (a rope is even in place) leads to the large inner cave. The cave is quite long with ledges on both sides of an opening that runs down the middle. In addition, there is even a perfect window-like opening with stellar views of the outside landscape.
When finished exploring the cave, retrace your steps back to the trailhead.
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