Soldier Pass Trail

This trail starts at the end of Shadow Canyon Dr. in Sedona. It is commonly done as part of a loop hike with the Brins Mesa Trail where Soldier's Pass terminates. From the parking area, the trail begins to climb gradually for about .25 mile when you reach Devils Kitchen, a sink hole with a large block of sandstone balanced on the side. About another .25 mile up the trail, you'll pass a series of seven potholes carved in the sandstone by water runoff. These are commonly called the Seven Sacred Pools.The trail continues uphill and begins to get steeper. About one mile from the trailhead, you can see Soldier's Pass Arch. Because of the open country, this remains in view for another half mile as the trail begins to get very steep. The arch is difficult to spot but at mid-day you can clearly see light shining on the ground behind the arch. Access to the arch can be gained from the Brins Mesa Trail.The trail begins to even out and turn back where it will end on the Brins Mesa Trail.