Sedona Parking, Shuttles & the Red Rock Pass Explained

Sedona’s red rock trails are world-class, but there’s one part of the adventure most visitors don’t expect — parking. Trailheads here fill up before sunrise, tickets are common, and nothing kills the excitement of a hike faster than circling for a spot. The good news? Sedona has a free shuttle system and a simple pass program that make it much easier to get out on the trails. Here’s what you need to know before you lace up your hiking shoes.

Why Parking in Sedona is a Challenge

With thousands of visitors a day and limited trailhead lots, parking is the single biggest frustration in Sedona. Even popular hikes like Devil’s Bridge, Cathedral Rock, and Soldier Pass often reach capacity by 7:00 AM. To ease congestion and protect neighborhoods, the city and Coconino National Forest created a free shuttle system and expanded the Red Rock Pass program.

The Sedona Trailhead Shuttle

The shuttle is Sedona’s best kept secret. It’s free, easy, and eliminates the stress of fighting for parking.

• When it runs: Thursday through Sunday, from about 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM. During spring break, holidays, and other busy times, service may run daily.
• How it works: Park your car at one of the designated Park & Ride lots (parking there is free), hop on the shuttle, and ride directly to the trailhead. No reservations or tickets are needed.
• Trailheads served: Cathedral Rock, Little Horse, Soldier Pass, Dry Creek Vista, and Mescal. These are some of the most popular hikes in town, so the shuttle really helps.
• Pro tip: Arrive early. Routes like Soldier Pass have daily passenger limits, and when the shuttle fills, you may have to wait for the next one.

The shuttles are clean, reliable, and drop you right at the trailhead — no stress, no parking fees. It’s the best way to start a hike, especially on weekends.

Park & Ride Lots

There are three main Park & Ride locations:

• West SR-89A Lot – Best for Dry Creek Vista and Mescal.
• North SR-179 Lot – Serves Cathedral Rock and Little Horse.
• Posse Grounds Lot – For Soldier Pass.

All are free to use, and signage makes them easy to find. Just leave your car, grab your gear, and catch the next shuttle.

The Red Rock Pass Explained

If you’re not using the shuttle, chances are you’ll need a Red Rock Pass. This is a parking permit required for most trailhead lots managed by the Forest Service.

• Cost: $5 per day, $15 per week, or $20 for an annual pass.
• Where to buy: Trailhead kiosks, the Sedona Visitor Center, local shops, or online at Recreation.gov.
• How it works: Display the pass on your dashboard or register your license plate online.
• Exceptions: A few sites, like Crescent Moon Ranch or West Fork, are managed separately and may charge different fees. If you hold a National Parks “America the Beautiful” pass, that also works in place of a Red Rock Pass at most locations.

It’s worth knowing that the Red Rock Pass does not guarantee you a parking spot. Lots still fill quickly, which is why the shuttle can be such a lifesaver.

Tips for a Smooth Experience

• Use the shuttle whenever possible — it’s free and saves time
• For sunrise or sunset hikes (outside shuttle hours), plan to arrive very early and purchase a Red Rock Pass.
• Always have a backup plan in case your first choice lot is full.
• Double-check trailhead signs; some sites don’t accept the Red Rock Pass.

Final Thoughts

Sedona’s trails are spectacular, and with a little planning you can avoid the parking headaches that frustrate so many visitors. Use the shuttle when it’s running, grab a Red Rock Pass when you need one, and spend your energy on the hike — not circling for a space.