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Rock formation · Sedona, Arizona
Bell Rock
A red sandstone bell-shaped rock beside State Route 179, south of Sedona, with short flat loops around it and more demanding climbs on the slopes.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Bell Rock
Bell Rock is one of Sedona’s most recognizable formations: a red sandstone rock shaped like a bell rising beside State Route 179, between the town and the Village of Oak Creek. Next to it stands Courthouse Butte, a larger mesa; together they form a landscape seen by travelers arriving from Phoenix.
The Bell Rock Pathway, wide and mostly flat, starts at a parking area on the highway and leads to the base of the rock. From there, paths climb the stony slopes where hikers go as far as they feel safe; the summit has no maintained trail and requires scrambling. A full loop around Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte is about 6 km.
The rock’s layers show red, orange and white bands, with the red coming from iron oxide. At sunrise and sunset the formation appears to glow.
Bell Rock is one of the spots many visitors call a vortex, where people go for meditation and spiritual energy.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
One to three hours.
Best time
At sunrise or late afternoon, when the colors are strongest. In summer, only in the early morning hours.
How to get there
The main parking area is on State Route 179, north of the Village of Oak Creek, about 10 km from Sedona’s center.
Tip
Parking requires a U.S. Forest Service pass, sold in machines on site. Bring water: there is no shade on the slopes.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Bell Rock
Can you climb to the top of Bell Rock?
The summit has no trail and requires climbing. Trails ascend the slopes to ledges with views, and each visitor goes as far as they feel safe.
Is the Bell Rock trail easy?
The Bell Rock Pathway to the base is wide and almost flat. Ascents up the slopes are steeper and rocky.
Do you need to pay for parking at Bell Rock?
Yes, parking requires a national forest pass, sold in machines on site. annual park passes are often accepted; check the signage.