Pros & cons
PROS
- Quick access to Oak Creek views right by the Visitor Center
- Direct link to Eagle’s Nest and other longer loop options
CONS
- Very short and feels like a connector rather than a standalone hike
- Limited shade makes midday heat noticeable
Park at the main Red Rock State Park Visitor Center lot; trail access is just beyond the Visitor Center near Oak Creek. Entry fee required.
Limited shade and heat—start early and bring water. Pets are not allowed in the park. Cell service can be spotty near the creek.
Overview
Smoke Trail is a short, easy creekside walk along Oak Creek near the Visitor Center. Plan on about 0.7 mile total with roughly 35 feet of elevation change, taking most people around 40 minutes. It’s more of a scenic connector than a destination hike, but it’s a pleasant way to stretch your legs and sample the park’s red rock views without much effort.
Route and What You’ll See
From the Visitor Center area, the path drops toward Oak Creek and meanders beside the water. Expect gentle grades, well‑signed junctions, and periodic peeks toward Cathedral Rock. The walking is straightforward and family‑friendly.
Connections
This little segment is a hub: it links into the larger 5‑mile network, including Eagle’s Nest (the park high point), Bunkhouse, Kisva, and the trail system leading toward the House of Apache Fire. If you want more payoff, treat Smoke Trail as your warm‑up and head up Eagle’s Nest for bigger views.
Know Before You Go
Shade is limited and it can get hot; start early and carry water. You’ll find restrooms by the Visitor Center, and cell service can be spotty once you drop toward the creek. Park entry fees apply, and pets are not allowed within the park.
Elevation
0.7 mi · 42 minWhere it starts
34.8115, -111.8286Near Smoke Trail
All places →All trails →
0 mi awayEagle's Nest LoopRidge and creek loop to the park’s highest viewpointEasy · 2.4 mi · 1.3 hr
0 mi awayApache Fire LoopShort climb to a 1940s hilltop house with big Sedona viewsEasy · 0.8 mi · 30 min
0 mi awayYavapai Ridge TrailShort ridge loop off Kisva with easy views and creekside approachEasy · 0.4 mi · 15 min
0 mi awayHouse of Apache FirePueblo Revival hilltop home with big views and a storied pastScenic Viewpoint · Parking
0 mi awayMiller Visitor CenterSmart first stop for exhibits, films, and trail intelVisitor Center · Exhibit
0 mi awaySmoke Trail OverlookQuick Oak Creek viewpoint steps from the Visitor CenterScenic Viewpoint · Parking
0.3 mi awayHouse of Apache Fires OverlookShort bluff-top walk to a historic home with big Sedona viewsScenic Viewpoint · Trailhead
0.4 mi awayCrescent Moon Ranch at Red Rock CrossingIconic Cathedral Rock reflections on an easy creekside stroll.Easy · 1.9 mi · 48 min
