How to Pack Devil’s Bridge and Soldier Pass into One Day in Sedona (Without Burning Yourself Out)

If you’ve spent any time planning a Sedona trip, you’ve probably noticed something frustrating:

Some of the most iconic hikes look close on a map — but take hours longer than expected once you factor in parking, access roads, and long approach hikes.

Learn how to see more of Sedona in one day by using off-road access to reach Devil’s Bridge, Soldier Pass, and more—saving hours and energy. Two perfect examples?

👉 Devil’s Bridge👉 Soldier Pass

Most visitors plan these as two separate days.

But with the right off-road vehicle, you can absolutely do both in one day — comfortably, confidently, and without feeling wrecked.

Here’s how.

Devil’s Bridge: The Epic Hike That Eats Half a Day (Unless You Off-Road)

Devil’s Bridge is one of the most photographed and unforgettable hikes in all of Sedona.

What many people don’t realize is that the standard route includes up to four miles of walking just to reach the base of the hike — before you even start the climb.

Add in:

• Limited parking

• Crowds

• And the return walk

…and Devil’s Bridge alone can turn into an all-day commitment.

How Off-Roading Changes Everything

With a high-clearance off-road vehicle, you can drive the rugged access road and dramatically cut down the approach.

That means:

• Less walking

• Less time

• More energy for the actual hike

Instead of spending hours just getting there, you arrive ready to enjoy one of Sedona’s most iconic viewpoints.

This is the difference between checking a box and truly experiencing it.

Devils Bridge - Tony (aka Capt Awesome) & Lili

Soldier Pass: Multiple Landmarks, One Smart Loop

After Devil’s Bridge, most people assume their day is done.

It doesn’t have to be.

From there, you can head directly to Soldier Pass, one of the most diverse and rewarding areas in Sedona — especially when accessed by an off-road route.

What You Can See in One Area:

• Seven Sacred Pools

• Devil’s Kitchen Sinkhole

• Soldier Pass Cave (about 1 mile each way)

  
  

Instead of long connecting hikes between each feature, off-road access lets you:

• Park closer

• Hop out for shorter walks

• Keep moving without losing hours

  
  

This turns what is typically another full day into a natural continuation of your adventure.

Soldiers Pass Cave - Tony (Capt Awesome & Laura)

Why This Works (Especially in a Ford Bronco or Tuscadero Pink Jeep)

This kind of day only works if the vehicle makes the journey comfortable.

At Arabella Off Road, we’re a Bronco-first rental company for a reason.

The Ford Bronco’s independent front suspension makes a noticeable difference on Sedona’s rough access roads. Combined with intuitive drive modes and a smooth, modern ride, you arrive at each stop feeling capable — not fatigued.

You’re saving time and energy.

What About Robber’s Roost?

Now, let’s talk about the stretch goal.

Robber’s Roost is absolutely worth seeing — but it’s farther out, and it changes the day significantly.

Here’s the realistic breakdown:

• 60 minute to drive from West Sedona

• 60–90 minutes at the trail and cave

• 60 minute to drive from West Sedona

That’s 3–3.5 hours total, and it’s the reason many people skip it altogether.

If you add Robber’s Roost after Devil’s Bridge and Soldier Pass, you’re looking at a very full day — potentially up to 12 hours, ideally done with maximum daylight and an early start.

For many travelers, Devil’s Bridge + Soldier Pass is the perfect one-day win.

Robber’s Roost? That’s for those who want to go all in.

(And yes — we’ll break that full-day itinerary down in a separate post.)

Adventure, Elevated — Not Rushed

This is what off-roading in Sedona really offers:

• Less time walking access roads

• More time at iconic landmarks

• Smarter use of your limited vacation days

You’re not trying to cram everything in. You’re choosing access over exhaustion.

👉 Ready to see more of Sedona in less time? Reserve your off-road adventure today.