Why is it called the Birthing Cave?
How long does it take to hike Birthing Cave?
How hard is the hike to the Birthing Cave?
In this blog, I’ll share my personal experience hiking to the Birthing Cave and things to be aware of without phone service.
Birthing Cave overview
Distance: 2 miles round-trip
Length of Time: 1 to 2 hours
Trailhead and Parking: Long Canyon Trailhead
Red Rock Pass: Not required
Why is it called the Birthing Cave?
The indigenous Hopi people, who lived in Sedona a long time ago, sent their pregnant women to the Birthing Cave in Arizona when it was time for them to give birth. Can you imagine having to climb into the cave when you’re about to give birth?
Direction to the Birthing Cave
It starts with Long Canyon Trailhead, walk about 0.6 miles and there will be a wooden fence in front of you. Right before you reach the fence, turn left to the fork towards the narrow trail. There is no signal during the entire hike. The best way to keep on track exactly where to turn is to wear a watch that can track the distance. Trying to stay on the widest and most obvious trail. Because the must-know leaves no trace considerations, it’s easy to get lost on the trail. If possible, double-check with people who come back from Birthing Cave to make sure you’re on the right track.
The Seven Principles of Leave No Trace provide an easily understood framework of minimum impact practices for anyone visiting the outdoors. Plan Ahead & Prepare, Travel & Camp on Durable Surfaces, Dispose of Waste Properly, Leave What You Find, Minimize Campfire Impacts, Respect Wildlife, and Be Considerate of Others.
The hike is easy until you get to the cave. Be prepared to do some climbing into the Birthing Cave at the end of the trail.
Inside the Birthing Cave
Inside the cave, the best spot to take photographs is on the left side of the cave wall. Because the rock inside the cave is smooth, it could be a little difficult to hold on to. Highly recommended preparing a good pair of hiking shoes. Birthing Cave has fewer tourists compared to other popular hiking trails, which are better for people who want to avoid the crowds.
Final Thoughts on the Birthing Cave Sedona
Although I got lost a little bit by passing through the turning point (it was my first hike in Sedona and I didn’t do my research), the view inside the cave was still worth the effort! Because the cave is covered by its shades, it was cool and relaxing looking out and enjoying Sedona’s Mountain View. I hope you find this blog helpful for you to find the direction to Birthing Cave. If you have a favorite hike in Sedona, please feel free to share it in the comment down below so we can all learn from each other!
If you’re not sure which hike to do in Sedona, check out my other post about 5 BEST Hikes in Sedona, AZ !
Happy Adventure Soul! 🙂
