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Cathedral Rock

Sedona, Arizona

4.9/5
based on 22 reviews

Details

Distance

1.7 miles

Elevation Gain

925 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Justin Ritucci

Cathedral Rock is one of the most scenic hikes in Sedona, AZ with amazing views from the top. 

Cathedral Rock is one of the most popular landmarks in Arizona. This amazing rock formation is located in Sedona, Arizona.

The hike is steep and requires a bit of climbing in some spots. The 1.5 miles roundtrip is pretty strenuous, leading you up a moderately steep incline, but well worth the reward once you make it up. Follow the basket cairns up and enjoy the breathtaking views from the top. This is a great spot to enjoy the sunset!

To get to the trail, park in the Cathedral Rock Trailhead parking lot on Back O Beyond Rd. The parking requires a $10 day pass.

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Features

Photography
Hiking
Dog Friendly
Easy Parking
Scenic

Reviews

Unfortunately we didn’t get to the top of Cathedral Rock as it was raining/hailing and was slippery. You do have to be comfortable with scrambling up sometimes loose and steep rock. Definitely will need to come back and see views from the very top!

Uphill hike is intimidating at first but it’s quite easy once you get the hang of it, the beautiful scenery up top definitely makes it worth it.

To avoid the crowds do this hike at dawn or dusk.

Short and strenuous, but worth every bit of effort. Perfect for sunrise and sunset, but it’s busy. Go early!

I did this a night hike and it was great way to avoid the crowds and enjoy the stars.

One of the most AMAZING hikes I have ever done, it’s short and steep but it’s not a difficult climb. I went up at 5:45 in the morning and went up to watch the sunrise. I highly recommend it, it was amazing. My dad and I were the only ones on the hike. It was quiet and serene. 10/10 recommend starting your day with this.

We tried to do this hike on a Saturday morning and was unable to find parking. Had to try again in the afternoon and barely got a spot. Be prepared if you go on a weekend or a free hiking day.

I was only in Sedona for couple hours one day during the summer and I stumbled upon this trail. It starts out flat for a about .3 miles then goes straight up the incredible rock formation for the rest of the 1.5. It gets pretty steep at some parts so I recommend good hiking boots with grip. The views are worth the steep climb to the top of the trail. When you hit the end of the trail I recommend taking a left and walking along a path that hugs the cliff for a little ways, there is an awesome hangout spot there. Prepare to dodge inexperienced hikers since it is pretty popular.

This is definitely a popular hike but wasn't too overcrowded, at least in January.

The Red Rocks day pass is only $5. There is a kiosk at the trailhead or you can purchase one at the ranger station in Oak Creek. This pass will allow you to park at any trailhead for the day in Coconino National Forest. The week pass is $15 and the Annual pass is $20 (2016 prices).

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Templeton Trail to Oak Creek

Hike or Bike Secret Slickrock Trail

Hike the Oak Creek Trail

Hike the Baldwin Trail

Explore Crescent Moon Ranch

Sedona Wind Caves