Top Hunting Places in Sedona, Arizona

Sedona, Arizona is best known for its iconic red rock landscapes, vortexes, and hiking trails—but beyond the spiritual retreats and scenic drives, it holds hidden treasures for serious hunters. While hunting within Sedona city limits and protected areas is prohibited, the surrounding regions offer access to Game Management Units (GMUs) 6A, 6B, and 7, which are filled with rich wildlife diversity and public hunting opportunities.

Overview: Hunting Near Sedona

Sedona sits at the crossroads of Arizona’s transition zone, where the high desert meets alpine forest. This elevation diversity creates perfect habitats for elk, Coues deer, turkey, javelina, and even black bear.

Key Features:

• Adjacent to Coconino National Forest
  
• Cool, forested terrain for summer and fall hunting
  
• Limited draw units with high-quality tags
  
• Accessible from both Flagstaff and Cottonwood
  

1. Coconino National Forest (South of Sedona) – Elk and Bear Haven

Stretching south from Sedona into Unit 6A, the Coconino National Forest is a rich, forested zone teeming with elk and black bears, especially around Munds Park, Schnebly Hill, and Beaver Creek.

Game Found Here:

• Rocky Mountain elk – notably during the September rut
  
• Black bear – especially in remote canyons during fall
  
• Mule deer and Coues deer
  
• Predators including bobcat and coyote
  

Best Access Points:

• Schnebly Hill Road (high-clearance vehicle required)
  
• Beaver Creek Road near Lake Montezuma
  
• I-17 southbound to FR 618 and FR 229
  

Tip: Glass open meadows early morning and set up near water tanks in the dry season.

2. Wet Beaver Wilderness Area – Remote Backcountry Challenge

Located southeast of Sedona, this rugged wilderness zone within Unit 6A offers some of the most remote hunting terrain. With no motorized vehicle access, it’s ideal for backpack hunters seeking low-pressure game.

Hunting Opportunities:

• Backpack-style elk and deer hunts
  
• Spring turkey along riparian corridors
  
• Occasional sightings of javelina and mountain lion
  

Preparation Notes:

• Requires excellent physical condition
  
• All gear must be packed in and out
  
• GPS and satellite communicator recommended
  

3. Casner Mountain and House Mountain – Overlooked Big Game Zones

Southwest of Sedona lies House Mountain and Casner Mountain, near Cornville and Page Springs. These mid-elevation ridgelines are prime areas within GMU 6B and known for mule deer and predator hunting.

Why It’s Worth Exploring:

• Low hunter density
  
• Intermittent water sources
  
• Prime areas for calling coyotes and foxes
  
• Some glassing points ideal for mule deer during early October
  

Access Info:

• Forest Service Roads off Highway 89A and Cornville Road
  
• Use OnX or HuntStand to avoid private land and track boundaries
  

4. Oak Creek Canyon (Surrounding Area) – Hidden Pockets for Archery

While Oak Creek Canyon itself is protected and not open to firearm hunting, the surrounding plateau and ridgelines above it provide secluded archery-only zones within Unit 6B.

Archery Hunters Can Pursue:

• Mule deer in early August velvet season
  
• Turkey in spring (April–May)
  
• Javelina near creek tributaries
  

Why Bowhunters Like It:

• Steep terrain ideal for spot-and-stalk
  
• Thick cover means close-range encounters
  
• Early season access before major hunting pressure
  

5. Sycamore Canyon Wilderness – Untouched Terrain, Trophy Potential

Northwest of Sedona and accessible from Clarkdale or Perkinsville Road, the Sycamore Canyon Wilderness is one of Arizona’s most pristine hunting areas. It’s remote, steep, and perfect for adventurous hunters targeting Coues deer, black bear, and turkey.

What You’ll Find:

• Deep canyons with limited human activity
  
• Elevated glassing points along the rim
  
• Trophy potential with proper scouting
  
• Quiet fall hunting due to difficult access
  

Pro Tip: Carry a bear tag during deer season—Sycamore Canyon has one of the densest bear populations in the region.

Species You Can Hunt Around Sedona

 

Hunting Ethics & Land Access Around Sedona

Many areas near Sedona include State Trust Land, National Forests, and wilderness zones. Follow these guidelines:

• No hunting in Sedona city limits or within Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness
  
• Obtain a valid Arizona hunting license
  
• Use the Arizona Hunt Unit Map Tool or OnX to identify legal areas
  
• Apply early for big game draws (due dates are usually in spring for fall hunts)
  
• Respect trail users and hikers—Sedona is a shared recreation hub
  
• Always pack out your trash and remains
  

Essential Gear for Sedona Hunting

• Water filter or hydration bladder – the high desert dries fast
  
• Topographic maps and GPS – cell reception is spotty in canyons
  
• Binoculars and tripod – essential for Coues and elk hunting
  
• Scent control and camo layers
  
• High-protein snacks for multi-day hikes
  
• Headlamp and backup batteries
• Appropriate firearm (secured in quality tactical soft rifle cases) or bow per regulation
  

Nearby Hunting Supply Stores

For licenses, ammo, or last-minute gear:

• Sportsman’s Warehouse – Flagstaff
  
• Jay’s Bird Barn – Sedona (bird hunting gear and local insight)
  
• Ace Hardware – Cottonwood (limited ammo and camping supplies)
  
• Arizona Game & Fish Department – Region 2 Office, Flagstaff
  

Conclusion: Sedona’s Red Rock Wilderness Offers More Than Just Views

If you’re looking for a hunting trip that combines solitude, scenic beauty, and wildlife diversity, Sedona’s surrounding terrain delivers. From the pine-studded slopes of the Coconino National Forest to the canyon-filled wilderness zones, hunters will find serious opportunity for both game and growth here.

Pack your gear, study the units, and get ready to experience the wilder side of red rock country.