Difficulty

Easy

Elevation

89 m

Distance

3.2 km

Duration

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Birthing Cave Hike

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Route description
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The Birthing Cave is a special spot in Sedona and has been a place where people go to find spiritual meaning for many years. The cave itself is incredible to be in, and you’ll enjoy a lovely view of the unique Arizona landscape from the cave. This trail used to be an underrated gem, but it becomes more popular every year. It’s important to be respectful of other hikers and the environment on this trail (and every trail!). Expect some mountain bike traffic.

This trail is easy and quite quick. The cave is wide but shallow, making it fairly easy to explore. Keep in mind that you’ll need to do a quick steep climb to get into the cave, but most hikers have no problem with this section. This trail is suitable for children and leashed dogs.

Route Description for Birthing Cave Hike

The Birthing Cave hike is a special excursion in the Sedona area that becomes more and more popular every year. This easy trail takes you to a wide, shallow cave with an excellent view of Sedona’s renowned landscape. This is a sacred cultural site used by the Hopi people to give birth for many years. Please remember to be respectful, pack out all of your trash, and stay on the designated trails to protect this sensitive area.

The trail is suitable for children and beginners. You’ll need to make one short, steep effort to get into the cave on a narrow trail lined with cacti, but it’s a brief effort. Download your GPS route if needed to avoid going off-trail.

The hike begins from the side of Long Canyon Road. There isn’t much parking here, and if the lot is full, we recommend coming back another time. There isn’t any good alternative parking.

From the road, take the wide, flat trail to the northwest (Long Canyon Trail). Keep an eye out for mountain bikers. At about 1.0 km in, you’ll have to stay to the left at a junction. The main, well-travelled trail goes to the right, but that’s the continuation of Long Canyon Trail and it doesn’t lead to the cave. You’ll want to take the trail on the left despite it looking like the wrong way.

You’ll begin approaching the cave at this point. Check in with your GPS track as you head to the cave. The path curves left and the cliffs will be on your right. Watch for a depression in the cliff wall- this is the cave!

In front of the cave, look for the little trail that leads up into its mouth. Don’t stray off the trail here, it’s lined with cacti. Climb up towards the cave and spend some time enjoying the interior. It’s not a very deep cave, so you will likely need to share the space. Admire the view, take photos to look back on, and explore the cave.

When you’re ready, retrace your steps to the trailhead.

Trail Highlights

Birthing Cave

The indigenous Hopi people used to send their pregnant women to the Birthing Cave to, you guessed it, give birth. There was an untold amount of life brought forth within the cave, making it a culturally and spiritually significant site. The cave is now explored by hikers on an easy trail.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Birthing Cave free?

Currently, there is no fee required to access this trail.

Why is it called the Birthing Cave?

Hopi women used to give birth in the cave.

Is it easy to get to the Birthing Cave?

Yes, the trail to the cave is considered easy and is suitable for most skill levels.

Insider Hints for Birthing Cave Hike

Arrive at the trailhead early (before 7:30 AM) as the parking for this hike is limited and the cave can get a little busy.
here can be standing water on the trail in the springtime. Consider waterproof boots if you’re hiking around March.

Getting to the Birthing Cave Hike Trailhead

The trailhead for the Birthing Cave Hike is off Long Canyon Road.

Route Information

Backcountry Campground:
No
When to do:
Year-round
Pets allowed:
Yes - On Leash
Family friendly:
Yes
Route Signage:
Good
Crowd Levels:
High
Route Type:
Out and back