How to drive the technical Soldier Pass Road in Sedona?
Soldier Pass Road is one of the most technical and restricted drives in Sedona, Arizona. Located within the Coconino National Forest, this 1.6 km (1 mile) forest track is a real test for 4x4 drivers, offering a mix of massive rock steps and dusty desert terrain right on the edge of the Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness.
| Road facts: Soldier Pass Road | |
|---|---|
| Location | Sedona, Arizona (USA) |
| Length | 1.6 km (1.0 mile) |
| Surface | Rough Rock Ledges / Red Dirt |
| Permit | Mandatory (12 per day) |
| Vehicle Required | High-clearance 4x4 only |
Is Soldier Pass Road in Sedona unpaved?
Yes, and "unpaved" is an understatement. The Soldier Pass Road (Forest Service 9904) is a rough, technical trail full of challenging rock obstacles. As you can see on the ground, the track is covered in red rock ledges and sharp steps that will punish any vehicle without high clearance. You’ll need a proper 4x4 to crawl over the "Devil’s Kitchen" sinkhole area. This isn't a place for AWD crossovers; you need low gears and good tires to navigate the uneven stone plates without banging your undercarriage or getting hung up on a boulder.
How long is Soldier Pass Road in Sedona?
Starting where the pavement ends at Canyon Shadows Drive, the motorized trail is only 1.6 km (1.0 mile) long. Don't let the short distance fool you; it’s a slow, bumpy ride where you’ll be moving at walking pace most of the time. The road takes you deep into the red rock backcountry, providing the only motorized access to the Seven Sacred Pools. Logistically, the drive is a dead-end for vehicles, meaning you’ll have to turn around and crawl back over the same rocks you just climbed to get out.
What are the permit and parking logistics for Soldier Pass?
Driving here is strictly regulated. You must have a permit to enter with a motorized vehicle, and they only issue 12 per day. Logistically, this makes it one of the most exclusive tracks in Sedona. If you’re planning to park at the trailhead, be there before 8:00 AM; the lot only holds about 14 cars and fills up instantly with hikers. The road is open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and the gate is locked outside these hours. If you don't have a permit or a high-clearance rig, don't even try to pass the gate—the first few rock steps will stop a standard car in its tracks.
Driving conditions and hazards in Sedona
The biggest hazard on Soldier Pass isn't just the rocks; it's the heat and the crowds. During the weekends, the trail is packed with hikers, so you’ll be sharing the narrow rocky path with people on foot. Technically, you need to be very careful with your wheel placement to avoid sliding off a ledge. If it rains, the red dirt turns into slick, heavy mud that makes the rocks incredibly slippery. Always check the sky before heading in, as a sudden desert storm can turn this technical crawl into a dangerous mess very quickly.
Pic: Darius Nabors.