Harding Springs

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Harding Springs is a system trail in the Coconino National Forest. Designated as Trail #51, it is well marked with signs and easy to follow. This trail originally was one of several that provided a way for cattlemen to drive their stock in and out of Oak Creek Canyon.

For today's hiker, that means it's wider than most Oak Creek Canyon trails and not as steep as some. So, if you're looking for a gradual climb to the canyon rim, complete with rest stops along the way where you can enjoy the view both up and down canyon, you've found it. As an added bonus there is a cave just off the trail as you near the top (SHOWN BELOW).

The cave on Harding Springs Trail makes a quick and interesting detour.

The Harding Springs Trail is entirely in the shade of a mixed conifer forest characteristic of central Arizona canyons. That adds another to this trail's already impressive list of pluses by keeping it reasonably cool in summer. And when you top the rim, you have the option of continuing either north to the Cookstove Trail or south to the Thomas Point Trail to complete a loop hike. Then again, you may want to go back by the same beginner-friendly route that brought you here.

FINDING THE TRAILHEAD

The Cave Springs Campground is located 13 miles north of Sedona in Scenic Oak Creek Canyon. There is a designated parking area just as you turn into the campground that is for day use of the creek and for hiking the Harding Springs Trail. There is no fee required to park here.

HIKE DETAILS

TRAIL TYPE
System Trail

RATED
Moderate due to steep elevation gain

TOTAL DISTANCE
1.6 miles roundtrip

ELEVATION GAIN
805 ft

EST HIKING TIME
1.5 -2 hrs roundtrip

BEST TIME TO GO
Apr-Oct

PET FRIENDLY
Yes. Must be leashed. Please
pick up after your pet.