Location: Sedona, Arizona Difficulty: 5-6 (Moderate/Difficult) Length: 2.4 miles (out and back) Ride Time: 1-2 hours Terrain: Rocky ledges, tight brush, slickrock steps Minimum Requirements: High clearance 4WD, skid plates recommended Recommended: Differential lockers, rock sliders

Soldier Pass delivers an outsized experience for its short distance. Tucked against a residential neighborhood in West Sedona, this permitted route launches straight into Coconino National Forest and threads through some of the most photogenic red rock terrain in the state - all in under two miles of driving.

The trail wastes no time establishing its character. A moderate rock ledge at the entrance serves as a gatekeeper, discouraging anything without serious ground clearance from proceeding. Just past the gate, a right turn onto Forest Road 9904B leads to the Devil's Kitchen spur - the most technical section of the route. A steep slickrock climb with smooth, tire-polished surfaces will likely require lockers to ascend cleanly. At the top, the massive Devil's Kitchen sinkhole drops away without warning or railing, a geological oddity formed by the collapse of underground limestone caverns.

Back on the main road, the route continues north through tight, brushy sections where Arizona cypress and juniper crowd both sides - expect pinstriping on anything with a fresh paint job. Several steep, ledgy climbs punctuate the drive, demanding careful line selection and steady throttle control. Articulation demands are minimal, but the stair-stepped rock shelves require good clearance and confident driving.

At 0.9 miles, a short spur to the right leads to the Seven Sacred Pools - a series of naturally carved sandstone basins that cascade down the rock, holding water year-round and reflecting the red spires of Coffeepot Rock above. The tight 270-degree turn onto this spur can challenge longer-wheelbase vehicles. The main road ends at a small turnaround at 1.2 miles, where the hiking trail continues into the Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness.

The scenery alone justifies the permit. Towering red buttes, the distinctive profile of Coffeepot Rock, and the sandstone formation known as the Sphinx frame the drive from every angle. The route shares the landscape with one of Sedona's most popular hiking trails, so expect foot traffic and drive accordingly.