Big Park Loop

The Big Park Loop is a 2.5-mile-long hike in the Coconino National Forest south of Sedona, Arizona. This hike provides wonderful views of the south and east sides of the Courthouse Butte as well as views of Bell Rock. The trailhead for this hike is located at the Bell Rock Vista parking area on the eastside of Arizona State Route 179 just north of the Village of Oak Creek. There are vault toilets at this parking area. A Red Rock Pass is required to park here. Dogs are allowed on the trail but must be on a leash. Be aware that this trail is also a popular mountain biking trail so you may encounter bikers during your hike.

Start this hike by heading east on the Bell Rock Trail (or Pathway). It is about a tenth of a mile walk to reach the Big Park Loop. Take a right at the T intersection to take the loop in a counterclockwise direction. The trail is easy to follow and is well marked. After a little more than a half mile, the trail intersects with the Middle Trail. Taking a left onto the Middle trail gives hikers the ability to take a shorter hike. After about a mile, the loop meets the Pine Valley Trail; stay to the left of the Big Park Loop. At the 1.4-mile mark there is another intersection, again stay left and cross a wash. The trail will again pass the Middle Trail. At the two-mile mark take a left, this leads you back to the Bell Rock Trail.

The Big Park Loop is a hike that most would consider fairly easy with minimal elevation changes. This makes for a nice, scenic hike suitable for most abilities. This trail is not as busy as many of the trails in the Sedona area. Be sure to bring plenty of water and use sun protection as there is not too much shade on this hike.