Cibola Pass to Jordan Trail

What do you do when you find yourself in Uptown Sedona with time to spare? You could hit one of the many shops or, better yet, swing by the Sedona Heritage Museum to learn the story of this Wild West town. Of course, if you’re the outdoorsy sort, you can also take a quick hike, like Cibola Pass to Jordan Trail. 

This short trek is perfect for squeezing in amid other activities. The 2.25-mile loop averages just over an hour to complete for most folks, making it perfect for when you have a bit of time but not enough for a longer excursion. It’s moderate — you’ll get a bit of up-and-down. We always recommend trekking poles for various reasons, and a good set will help you balance when ascending a couple of steep, if brief, slopes and rocky scrambles. 

You’ll enjoy sweeping views of Steamboat Rock as you hike Cibola Pass to Jordon Trail, and if you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the moon over it. You’ll reach an overlook about a half mile into your hike that’s perfect for practicing a few yoga poses and stretching those tight hamstrings and quads before proceeding up the hill. It levels out quickly, providing moderate dips and ascents for the rest of your trek. 

This hike sparkles in warm weather thanks to the abundance of trees and shade, but it’s beautiful in the winter, too. Cibola Pass to Jordon Trail is a happy little jaunt that will lift your spirits while elevating your heart rate and making you feel alive and in touch with nature’s beauty. 

If you go: To reach the Cibola Pass to Jordan Trail trailhead, follow Jordan Road in Uptown until you reach a “T.” Note the trailhead sign and turn left. Continue past the Jim Thompson trail sign down the dirt road to the main parking area. We highly recommend using a high-clearance vehicle with skid plates to reach the upper lot. You’ll also find the Brin’s Mesa trailhead — Brin’s Mesa, Jordan Trail, and Cibola Pass share the same trailhead.