Awe-Inspiring Views Hiking Cathedral Rock in Sedona, Arizona
Cathedral Rock in Sedona, Arizona
Cathedral Rock Trail Description & Hiking Guide
Experience the true beauty of Sedona’s red rocks on a day hike to view the towering sandstone cathedral. This popular hike in the heart of Sedona will reward you with unparallel views from atop one of the most impressive rock formations in Arizona. The Cathedral Rock Trail is a relatively short hike that is an ideal for beginners, including families with kids. It includes moderate inclines, rocky steps, a crevice climb, and rock scrabbling, which kids will adore. With only one steep drop off at the end of the trail, parents can relax and enjoy the hike without being on constant high alert.
The Summit at Cathedral Rock Trail
Fair warning, this hike is not secluded and can be busy on weekends and holidays, depending on what time of year you complete the hike.
TIP Parking is a bit tricky during peak hours, so I’d recommend going during the week or setting out early to secure a spot. We hiked in August, mid afternoon and although we had the heat to contend with, the trail was relatively low trafficked due to the extreme heat and off season.
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Trail Logistics
Trail Distance 1.2 mile, Out and Back
Time 1.5-2 hours
Elevation Gain 750 ft
Difficulty Moderate hike with steep sections
Kid Friendly Yes
Dog Friendly Dogs are allowed, but must be on a leash. In my opinion, it would be a bit challenging once you’re past the beginning section to maintain hold onto your dog and be able to do the rock scrabbling section.
Parking
Trailhead map and sign at Cathedral Rock Trail
The parking lot is at the Cathedral Rock Trailhead on Back O Beyond Road. A parking fee machine is located at the parking trailhead and accepts credit cards. With parking spaces for only a limited number of vehicles, it can prove to be a challenge to find a spot, so arrive early. Overflow parking can be found at Red Rock Crossing Side.
Parking Fee: $5.00
Hiking the Cathedral Rock Trail
I’ve attempted to break the trail down into descriptive sections. This helpful hiking guide for Cathedral Rock should help you know what to prepare for on your adventure. We hiked in the mid morning in 90 degree heat. The hike has zero shade until you’re under the canyon wall at the summit, so come prepared with water and sun protection. In no rush, we spent 2.5 hours exploring the trail.
Trailhead
The parking lot marks the Cathedral Rock Trailhead with a large posted map clearly delineating the start of the hike.
Creek Crossing
Creek Crossing at Cathedral Rock Trail
Once you cross the small creek where Cathedral Rock Trail and Easy Breezy Trail cross, then you’ll start up rocky ledge-like stairs, which are fairly easy to follow. The beginning section is an easy hike with some parts of the trail lined with fencing on either side to help with erosion.
Ascending to the Plateau
Next the trail opens up to wide, smooth rock faces. The trail is marked by rock cairns in baskets so it’s clear what route to follow. The trails ascends at the Templeton Trail to a plateau area with a lovely view below of the desert. Pause and take in the beauty around you and make sure to snap a picture.
Pausing to take in the view at the plateau at Cathedral Rock Trail
Scrabbling Up the Crevice
At the deep crevasse in the rock you will need to climb up and scrabble on all fours using both handholds and footholds. The climb isn’t difficult, but you do need to get down and channel your inner child as you ascend. Kids will particularly love this section of the trail.
Crevice Climb at Cathedral Rock Trail
If heights are challenging for you, just note, if you continue the return descent can feel a bit scary as you lower yourself into the crease of the crevice. This trail section is a narrow climb, so only one person can ascend at a time and you may need to wait for your turn.
End of Trail Sign at the Saddle
The trail technically ends at a wide saddle area between two rock walls. An End of Trail sign at this point, marks your position, signally you’ve summited. The view is breathtaking! When we hiked in the mid morning, the shade was non existent until we reached this spot in the shade of the canyon wall. The cool shade from the spire was a relief from the 90 degree, oppressive sun beating down.
While sitting in the heavenly shade, we enjoyed gazing at the red rocks and desert valley below. On the right, there is a narrow rock ledge you can take a stunning photo to commemorate the hike with a panoramic photo. Proceed with caution in this drop off area.
Backside of the Saddle
View on the backside of Cathedral Rock summit
Whereas the majority of people will turn back at the sign, that’s not our style. Over time we’ve discovered that if you venture a bit farther you’ll find a unique spot.
Wandering off the beaten path, we continued along the towering canyon wall. Hugging the canyon wall, we followed a small trail curving up to the left around the spire. Our reward was a stunning view on the back of the cathedral.
This secluded spot allowed us to take pictures with the red rock as our gorgeous backdrop without any other hikers.
Descending the Crevice
The Vortex
After conversing with a couple hikers on the trail, they mentioned if you continue up and veer to the left around the spire there is a vortex. This spot is said to have a high magnetic energy source. Some people report tingling sensation or intense emotion.
The Vortex at Cathedral Rock
I don’t know if it was the overwhelming feeling of accomplishment from summiting or just my excitement to get my husband alone in a secluded spot, but this area definitely felt magical. I’ll let you decide for yourself.
Cathedral Rock Trail in Sedona, Arizona
From here we bouldered our way around the second spire and switched backed until we met up with the original trail for the descent.
Tips for Hiking
1. If hiking in the heat of the day, pack water and snacks
2. Wear solid footwear with traction
3. This trail has no shade until you’re in the shade of the far cliff so wearing a sun hat and sunscreen is advisable
4. In wet weather the rocks can be slippery, so practice caution.
5. As always when exploring the beauty of nature practice rules of Leave No Trace.
If you’re new to hiking or just trying to decide what to pack in preparation for your trip, here is our Essential Hiking Guide List. This includes what we stock in our day packs and the best clothes for hiking. Both the Osprey Tempest Day Pack for women and the Osprey Talon 22L for men are great options for hiking packs.
FAQ
Why is it called Cathedral Rock: Due to the unique formation of the rocks which are similar to a cathedral shape.
Where is alternative parking if the lot is full ? If the parking lot is full, another option is to head to the Red Rock Crossing side, where you can hike the Baldwin Trail to Cathedral Rock. Note that this trail approach adds additional mileage and is a longer hike.
What is a Vortex? A specific site where energy crackles more intensely. There are several locations in the Sedona area.
Can dogs hike Cathedral Rock? Yes, dogs are allowed, but do to the crevice scrabbling sections it might be challenging for you to keep your dog on a leash and still have the agility to climb.
Is the hike safe for children? Yes, this is a beginner hike and kids will especially love scrabbling up the rocks.
Is the hike handicap accessible? No
When is the best time to visit? Hike during the weekdays to avoid crowds on this popular hike in Southwest Arizona. The most ideal weather temperatures (70’s- 80s) occur in Sedona’s spring and fall seasons between March - May and September- November for outdoor adventures.
Nearby Restaurants and Shopping in Sedona
Looking for a meal and drinks after your invigorating hike at Cathedral Rock? Two highly recommend restaurants in the Sedona area are Creekside American Bistro and Cowboy Club.
Relax and dine with view of Oak Creek and the red rocks. We opted to sit at the tiny patio in the back for a quiet, relaxing atmosphere and a beautiful view of Oak Creek. The food was delicious. I enjoyed the Lamb Chop Lolli Pops, grilled watermelon, fresh mint, balsamic glaze, and pesto dipping sauce and my husband had the build your own burger and onion rings.
Craving a delicious steak or buffalo burger then head to this spot. With a patio space right in the downtown area among the backdrop of the red rocks, it’s a prime location. It received rave reviews from my in-laws.
Where to Stay
During our visit we’ve stayed at several hotels in the area. If you want a resort style hotel with a great location the Hyatt Recency Scottsdale Resort and Spa is my vote! It has gorgeous pools, one that even has a sandy beach and slide. Fine dining, but also kid friendly buffet options.
Closing Thoughts
I hope this hiking guide has inspired you to hike Cathedral Rock in the Southwest and experience the beauty of Sedona, Arizona. Don’t forget to Pin and Save this post and follow Discovering Anew on Facebook for more family travel, vacation guides, and Michigan camping recommendations. If you found this content helpful, share it with a friend. Happy Trails!
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