Robbers Roost Sedona: A Hike Guide

Tucked away in the rugged backcountry, Robbers Roost Sedona is one of those hidden gems that’s so worth it. Once rumored to be a hideout for bootleggers and outlaws, this short hike leads to a beautiful cave overlooking red rock views. The trail may be remote and a bit bumpy to reach, but the reward is a peaceful escape far from the crowds.

Robber’s Roost Sedona Details

Here’s where I share all my personal insights- things that I wish I knew before doing the hike. We’ll go over how to get there, parking, the trail, and of course the Robber’s Roost Sedona Cave, otherwise known as Shaman’s Cave.

The Drive to Robber’s Roost

It’s important to be prepared for the drive to Robbers Roost in Sedona. This cave hike is located on the west side of Sedona, and before the town if you’re coming from Phoenix. “Robber’s Roost Trail” is easily found on google or apple maps, but you should always prepare for your trek! Loy Butte Road or FR 525 is a dirt road for 13 miles to the trail. It is well-maintained for even lower clearance cars until 1 mile before the closest trailhead- I’ll talk about this in the next section. That final mile is only for off-road vehicles. You will see the parking for the cars that can’t make the final mile.

road to robber’s roost in sedona

Starting the Hike

It’s important to be prepared for the drive to Robbers Roost Sedona. This cave hike is located on the west side of Sedona, and before the town if you’re coming from Phoenix. “Robber’s Roost Trail” is easily found on google or apple maps, but you should always prepare for your trek! Loy Butte Road or FR 525 is a dirt road for 13 miles to the trail.. It is well-maintained for even lower clearance cars until 1 mile before the closest trailhead- I’ll talk about this in the next section. That final mile is only for off-road vehicles. You will see the parking for the cars that can’t make the final mile. If you walk from the beginning, your hike is 3 miles instead of just 1.

Hiking to the Cave

The Robber’s Roost Sedona hike starts out (once you get to the closer trailhead) looking like the photo below. You can see the trail wind into the landscape. You’ll go up and around the rock to the right of the trail and boom, you’ll find the cave. It’s an easy trail!

People mention that there is a “sketchy” rock you climb around to get into the cave, but honestly it is easy to get around! Don’t worry too much- but always have grippy shoes.

Robber’s Roost Cave

When you reach the end of the trail, the actual Robbers Roost cave reveals itself carved into the sandstone cliff — a wide alcove with sweeping views of Sedona’s red rock country and the valley below. Please respect the rocks at the bottom of the cave. You’ll also see a circular cave next to it- it’s all connected! Such beautiful photo spots. My friends and I agreed this would be an amazing spot to watch sunrise or sunset.