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I've climbed some impressive trails in my day... but Cathedral Rock clearly woke up that morning and chose violence. Sharon and I decided we were obviously elite athletes, so naturally we set out to hike it. About a quarter mile in, our lungs filed a formal complaint. Now to be fair, the trail doesn't exactly ease you into things. It basically looks at you and says, "Oh... you thought this was a walk?" From there it's steep rock, scrambling, and a steady reminder that gravity is very real. We stopped. We rested. We evaluated several recent life choices. And then we kept going. At some point along the climb it hits you: this might be the only hike where the staircase goes straight up the side of a postcard. I made it as high as I reasonably could before deciding that discretion is sometimes the better part of valor... and oxygen. So we turned back. And honestly, that's when the best part of the experience happened. As we paused on the way down, we chatted with hikers from all over North America heading up and down the trail. Every single person asked the same thing: "How far did you make it?" Not a single raised eyebrow when we said we didn't summit. Meanwhile I had been judging myself like I'd just been cut from the varsity team. From where we rested, the view over Sedona was absolutely gorgeous. Calm. Expansive. Peaceful. One of those views that makes you stop talking for a minute and just take it in. Also, small public service announcement: I originally thought this hike led to the famous chapel built into the red rocks. That would be Chapel of the Holy Cross... which is a very different destination and a much easier visit. Definitely double-check your notes before committing to this particular adventure. The trail is challenging, the scenery is spectacular, and the experience has a little bit of magic to it. Five stars for a hike that reminds you the goal isn't always the summit... sometimes it's just appreciating the view from exactly where you are.
Cathedral, Bell Rock and Red Rocks around - not a more stellar and sizzling, awe-inspiring, hike or bike you'll go on! Breathe it in! Eye-balls popping! Jaw dropping! Natural wonderful views moving around the monolithic red, orange, tan, brown - so many colors in the rock - each with a story as you take pic after pic. Today my wife and a friend hike while I mountain biked. Bell Rock path is wide and easy for any biker level. Go to Rabbit Ears, Little Rock and Llama for a challenging ride on single tracks. It is Fast Flow Furious Fun!
Very beautiful but a pain to get to due to the limited parking and narrow one-lane-in-each-direction line of cars ascending and descending the hill to get there. Then once you are there, the crowds keep you from truly enjoying the stunning views for too long. But it is a lovely view once you get a chance to see it. Inside the cathedral is vertically spacious and awe-inspiring. The day we visited a band was doing a live recording of their spiritual music...which lent to the transcendent experience. A nice visit to do once - but likely not a repeat visit.
Physically moderate, psychologically intimidating, 100% worth it. If you're new to Sedona I highly recommend doing your research when planning for this hike. This is one of those adventures where you rapidly gain elevation within a short distance, and you know what that means- you need all arms and legs to truly experience it at its finest. There's an incredibly narrow section with natural footholds, slated red rock and a little scrambling which all look more intimidating than they really are. If you hike, the one is truly more of a mental game than a physical challenge! Saw a few climbing barefoot, so you bet I'll be back to do the same. Pro tip: Bring water that you're able to carry on your person and if you feel nervous about a section, take the time to watch others tackle it before tackling it yourself. Follow the cairns!
Seriously, if you get a chance to hike here do it. You will not be sorry. The parking was full so we parked 2 miles down the road and took the shuttle. The hike was absolutely gorgeous and totally worth it. The views were spectacular. If you have options to wear a camelback to be hands free I would recommend that. We hid our water bottles in a bush halfway up because we needed our hands to climb.
Wow this hike was by far the scariest hike I've ever done. I unfortunately didn't make it up the last 15-20 min of the hike so I wasn't able to enjoy the view at the top or even see the Vortex up close. Trust me I contemplated with myself, but I'm really afraid of heights. I just couldn't finish it. You will be Rock climbing pretty steep with no rope or anything to hold onto. Make sure you wear good hiking shoes with a good grip and take your time. If you're not afraid of heights go for it! I've heard the view is breathtaking and beautiful. I'm so bummed I chickened out. We went over the weekend so we had to park at the Park and Ride at N SR-179 and take the shuttle over. Free parking and free shuttle. It's runs every 15 minutes. Also the parking lot has porta potties so make sure to go there because the ones by the trail are not as clean in my opinion. I hope one day I can build up some courage and attempt this hike again. I did take a few pics from my view point.
Ok this was my first stop on the rock formations in Sedona. This was just a day trip so I wanted to touch base with a few rocks and Cathedral was on the top of my list. I reached the park and finding a parking spot was challenging. Two areas to park with about 20 spaces ( if people park right ) to park in each area. I did circle around for about 5 minutes, then I found a spot . You do have to purchase a park pass to park and visit Cathedral Rock. The park day pass is $5.00 which can be obtained in the parking lot. Credit Cards are accepted in the pass machine. Put the pass in your windshield of your car. I suggest if you are going to do the whole hike. Bring these. Sturdy supportive hiking boots/shoes, water bottle , electrolyte powder, hiking gloves, hat, and of course a backpack with medical kit, energy food , etc. I would have liked to do the total hike n climb, yes climb. You can stay at different levels of cathedral rock. I went to the first level walked around the side of cathedral rock, great views!!!!! Wow, the next level is steeper but not hard. But always look where you are stepping, loose rock beware. The views are stunning and I did not get tired. I am 71 in good shape. But still I should have got winded, I felt very energized...oh ok I know what you are thinking and you are probably right. This is a vortex with uncommon effects. Was this an effect on me , I did not stop to think about it, I just enjoyed what the universe was giving me. I did have a short meditation before I went on the trek asking permission to enter. I did spend more time here than anticipated, time flew by so quickly. Since I only had till sundown to see a few other rock formations I bid adieu' to Cathedral Rock. Thanking her for her kind hospitality. Cathedral Rock is a must see. Amazing place, even now I am home just thinking about the experience I feel the energy. You still must be careful doing this hike. The rescue squad was there rescuing a guy that climbed up but he could not get down the steep path back. Be prepared if you do hike up to the top. Enjoy CATHEDRAL ROCK you will never forget it.
An absolutely phenomenal hike with the best views of the red rocks of Sedona! After reading up on this hike, I was nervous if I would be able to do the scrambles and steep inclines, but I made it to the top and it was worth the climb. We got to the end of the trail about thirty minutes before sunset, so we took time to get some awesome pictures and watch a beautiful sunset. Well worth a visit! Very limited parking at the trailhead, but there is a shuttle that operates most days.
(Explored 05/22/25 TH @ 12:00pm): It felt like a pilgrimage as I scaled and scrambled my way up this rock that resembled a gothic cathedral! My second hike of the day (after Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte) took me to Cathedral Rock for the first time in over twenty years. Located within the Coconino National Forest in Yavapai County, a natural sandstone butte and possibly one of the most photographed sights in Arizona, with a summit elevation of 4,967 feet, it's another famed local landmark, noted for panoramic views and a well-known vortex site believed to be a source of balancing and cleansing energy for the mind, body, and soul, considered a "feminine" or strong vortex. Was I at peace once I reached the summit of this "holy" rock!? EXPERIENCE Definitely a tourist destination for numerous reasons, I started off on the initial trailhead Cathedral Rock Trail (approx. 1,2 miles - good for hikers only) https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=8jVT2inwc8GIQ6sH2UG9Vw&start=24&select=vL8mQ1O-4H_4vxAZL4Zf8w from the parking lot and mainly stayed on the marked trail since I was on a mission. I casually took in the sights and allowed myself just to be free, listened to my breathing, and cleared my mind as much as possible as I snapped a myriad of photos along the way. The entire hike was basically an ascent with some scrambling involved and a very narrow pathway that would've been nice to have gloves so my hands didn't get cut and scratched. Once you reached the summit and took in the gorgeous views https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=8jVT2inwc8GIQ6sH2UG9Vw&start=24&select=7mn9XsCC5tSd-eEr44jq5A of the landscape below, you still had a bit more before you reached the "End Of Trail" sign. It was a somewhat harrowing descent as you took the same pathway down at times on your butt and more scrambling. Any and all viewpoints https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=8jVT2inwc8GIQ6sH2UG9Vw&start=24&select=Ac8SXJVYtaOExyZBxDOKjg were awe-inspiring. Here were some other trail options, although I didn't believe dogs or accessible options were available: ~Baldwin Trail: Could be combined with the Cathedral Rock Trail for a longer loop hike. ~Templeton Trail: Could be combined with the Baldwin Trail and Cathedral Rock Trail for a longer loop. ~Little Horse Trail To Chicken Point: Offered views of Cathedral Rock. ~HLine Trail: A longer loop trail that included parts of the Templeton and Baldwin Trails. PURCHASE N/A SERVICE Outside of the shuttle service I speak about in the next section, there was none to speak of. However, the surroundings were absolutely clean, and the various trails were visibly marked - 'nuff said. PARKING (Varied; $2.00 this instance) I parked at a nearby church which acted as a park-and-ride for the convenient complimentary Sedona Shuttle (please tip the driver at least a buck or two; and the driver gave out FREE bottled water!) that made stops at other popular hiking trails as it did a loop. There was a parking lot once the shuttle dropped us off at the trailhead, but I didn't know how you gained access to it. https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=8jVT2inwc8GIQ6sH2UG9Vw&start=24&select=jNJiRfaJMr8R-LlfG6BQeQ ATMOSPHERE, DÉCOR, AMBIENCE A wide-open space completely exposed to the elements with minimal dry desert foliage everywhere, elevated, flat, and uneven surfaces, and breathtaking views https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=8jVT2inwc8GIQ6sH2UG9Vw&start=24&select=m8A2qbbyKCtd--ekifJNBw as far as the eye can see depending on your vantage point. Be prepared and have proper footwear, sun protection, sunscreen, and plenty of water. Although I didn't see any animals, bugs, or insects, just be mindful of your surroundings. Obviously, there was plenty of natural light since you were outdoors. The only TV or music would've came from your cell phone. https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=8jVT2inwc8GIQ6sH2UG9Vw&start=24&select=co4kaltINIg4miD4M2edRA ATTIRE Totally casual, so I would normally be in a t-shirt and boardshorts, but I was in more appropriate hiking boots instead of my favored flip-flops. OVERALL As incredible as Cathedral Rock was, it wasn't as casual and leisurely as Bell Rock. Maybe because I'd already done a long hike earlier, the heat was bearing down, and it was crowded, I just wanted to complete the journey. Regardless, it was still a wonderful time. I somehow managed to be done within 1.5 hours. I found complete value based on the service and experience noted above (TOTAL paid experience was around $2.00 BEFORE any discounts and/or tip). And, they accepted my credit card of choice... AMEX! 5.0 STARS
Oh. My. Goodness. This was by far the hardest but most rewarding hike in Sedona, in my opinion. We woke up very early to catch the sunrise and there were already people there. There's a ton of parking and you do have to pay so make sure to do before proceeding on the hike. We didn't know that they closed the hike around midmorning due to construction and redoing the steps so towards the end, we had the entire Cathedral Rock to ourselves and it was surreal! Definitely a once in a lifetime experience. The hike up is HARD. For someone who's afraid of heights, I had to keep myself steady and breathing through it. It was pretty much rock climbing the entire time. Make sure you wear good hiking shoes because I slipped a few times with mine and would not recommend. It's a straight uphill rock climb, to be frank. One wrong step and you will go tumbling down to your fate. I definitely would not have been able to do this alone because I am not well versed in rock climbing so I am glad I had someone to guide me and literally pull me up at times. Please be patient with others since not everyone is an expert climber & also make sure to scope out the best and safest path for YOU rather than following others. For example, there was a part where someone thought they were choosing an easier way down but then they slid on their butts the entire way instead of looking for just a simple jump down. The vortex area is a little bit more of a climb to get to but you will know once you're there. It's another steep climb up in between two rocks with cacti on the sides but it's well worth it. We went even further and explored the unknowns and it was absolutely breathtaking. You could definitely feel the energy. Please be mindful of being too loud as this should be a serene place. All in all, I would recommend this but come prepared with water, snacks, and ready to do some rock climbing.
Cathedral Rock was no where to be found on a list of hikes recommended by our hotel. We are so glad we talked to some lovely people on another hike that highly recommended Cathedral Rock to us! Beautiful hike that is on the shorter side. Yes, it is a little less than a mile but you are climbing a pretty steep vertical. We were nervous when we read that this hike is not for novices. We were four girls with running shoes on. Yes, the hike/climb up is on the moderate to difficult side but definitely doable! We took a couple of breathing breaks on the way up. There is a small section of the hike that you are climbing in between large rocks. Not hard. You just need to slowly find your way up. The path is pretty well marked with white arrows. It took us probably a little less than an hour to get up there. Trust us, it was worth it. Breathtaking views. An experience I would highly recommend. Once up there, you will need to explore a little to get nice shots. It's fun. I could stay up there forever. Too bad the sun was about to set so we needed to get going. On the way down, we crab crawled a lot of it. Some parts you just need to kind of slide down some rocks. All of our clothes were pretty red by the end. Parking: limited parking spots. Probably only about 15 or so? Also you need a parking pass. We bought ours at a convenience store down in town. Note: there is an easy trail and then there's the cathedral rock trail. Do the cathedral rock trail. You won't regret this!! Great leg work out and a sweet photo opt? Winner. read more
13 years ago
I consider myself equal parts sherpa and Burmese mountain dog so it is from this hiking elitist perspective that I offer only 2/3 stars... Hike was okay but overall too short to be 5 star satisfying--there may be a longer, better trail that allows for more 360 degree views--but the yelptard trail feels like a tv show written for a half hour time slot when you bought admission expecting for a full length feature. If you're in decent shape you can probably get up in less than 35 minutes and in the winter months will be fine with a few quarts of water and some well flavored chewing gum--snacks not necessary but could be enjoyed as an intermission for said cinematic short. The beauty of the area can be a welcomed distraction during uncomfortable conversations about relationship history, emotional availability and the rocky, multi layered terrain of friendship, fidelity and the faith that forgiveness is in fact divine. At just the right time of day you can see the Sun melt into the horizon and for a fleeting moment you may realize the decision to record this moment as dawn's breaking of light or dusk's descending darkness is in the eye of the beholder...as destiny and the path back home awaits. read more
This was an easy hike, the parking situation was the hard part. Small lot with about 20 parking spaces. We had to circle several times and practically stalk someone to get their spot before they left. It's $5 per car, and it's by a self service machine, basically honor system, but I wouldn't chance not paying, fine is pretty steep if you're caught without one on your dash. We went on a Sunday morning, expecting it to be busy since this is probably one of the more known hikes in Sedona. We came along a few characters searching for the vortex, one happened to be a yogi teaching on Buddha Beach. The views were nice from the top, it was a short hike, around 1.5-2 miles RT, few spots of scrambling, with as many people as there were, the trail did't get back up. and it was clean, everyone picked up after themselves. read more
Fantastic hike for people of all ages! 3 generations of us went hiking together, from my 6 year old nephew to my parents in their late 60s.... Templeton and Cathedral trail starts directly from the parking lot off Back O Beyond. "Easy breezy" Templeton trail stays around base of mountain, and Cathedral Trail which quickly becomes more advanced and rocky. I'm told conflicting feedback on whether it loops back to the parking lot... It apparently Templeton trail does if you take the right route but the map doesn't convey that. So go as far as you want and turn back the same way like we did! Wish I could have done the entire thing Bc it was fun!! Bring water, sunscreen,and cover up. Cold if hiking before sunset but gets hot with few areas of shade at higher altitudes. Wear appropriate shoes with traction, as rocks can be slippery/rocky in some areas. There are white markers on the rocks to guide you thru the best routes. It's not paved, so prepared to get dirty. It's a fun hike, beautiful panoramic views, within 10 min from the parking lot. The kids loved it, saying it was the funnest time they've had in Sedona. Those scared of heights need not worry...continue hiking until you can't anymore, and simply take in the view. Parking costs $5/day and $15/wk in a small lot of ~20 cars. Glorious views at sunset/sunrise as It illuminates the huge Red rock formations. At the end of March, sunrise was around 6:20am, sunset was around 6:30pm. read more
5 years ago
I started off my day trip in Sedona with a hike up Cathedral Rock and wouldn't have it any other way! The parking is a bit sparse but if you arrive earlier (9 am or earlier) you shouldn't have too much of an issue. Cairns help you follow the trail to the saddle, and at that point the official trail ends. You have the option of going back the way you came or by climbing up to a higher saddle/vortex and looping around. In addition to the great workout this hike provides, the views are phenomenal! I've been all over AZ and the views here are some of the best in the state. If you're looking for hikes in Sedona, don't leave Cathedral Rock off your list. read more
Such an amazing hike!! The most important thing I could recommend is wearing the appropriate shoes for this one mile steep hike. There is an abundance of scrambles on this Trail, with one in particular part of it about Midway up being a smooth spine like Ascent scramble and if you're wearing the wrong shoes I could easily see You Slippin which would definitely ruin your day. So pack your hiking boots and you'll have no problem. For difficulty it took me about 50 minutes to get to the very top and end of the trail where there is an absolutely breathtaking View and a sketchy photo op area if you're one of these people that like to hang off the side of a hundred foot drop to get that perfect Facebook photo. Make sure and bring some water with you as it is strenuous and staying hydrated is your friend. If you're not in shape save this hike for the end of the trip as your meniscus will be pretty sore by the end of this hike due to constantly pushing up and stepping down on your descent onto the hard rocks. Such an amazing Trail just do it!!! read more
12 years ago
There's a long way (near Buddha Beach) and a short way (through the road, Back O Beyond). I did the short way which was a lot quicker!! The reviews for the hike were really intimidating but I think it was easier than I expected it to be, although still difficult. Until the very end of the trail with the cliff-like spot, this trail is pretty safe which I like. There are no drops next to you and even if you fall, it's just a couple feet. Go at your own pace and take breaks if you need to! I found that in spending time to figure out where to place my hands/feet, I went at a slower pace so it wasn't too tiring. This hike is super fun with lots of climbing involved. The view is amazing at every point of the hike too! :) Come early in the morning. Be very wary of weather conditions/ time. When I went at around 3/4pm, there weren't too many people there and we were pretty much on our own for figuring out where to go. We almost got lost which was a super scary thought since there was thunder ahead. Look for the trail markers (rocks wrapped in the fence-like material and white paint). Don't go off unless you're sure you know what you're doing. Have fun! :) read more
8 years ago
Pretty challenging hike! (We took the Cathedral Trail path, not the "easy-breezy) We're pretty athletic, and this was moderately challenging, not only physically but my knees were shaking- you get VERY high. Going down was a bit scary, as there were multiple flat rocks without much to grab onto; you get to see a lot of the "butt-sliding" as you make your way down. Tip - at the top, there is a ledge to look out on the side; makes for an AWESOME photo shoot. Dress in layers, definitely gets a LOT of sun, and you warm up throughout the hike! Very limited parking; there is another lot somewhere down the road, but get here early, there's only about 20-30 spots right at the base of the trail. It's a pay-for-parking at an automated machine, somewhere around $5. read more
5 years ago
14 years ago
Superb Real Estate. The trail is small but today not busy. There are wildflowers in bloom all around. The flora is absolutely outstanding and I recognize mom and pop blue jays flying around. There is something very cool about iron red soil from the parent sandstone that surrounds Sedona and the suttle natural geomagnetism that affect human brainwaves. At times this can be a very strong feeling. This hike is very remarkable. read more
Absolutely amazing hike! A must do in Sedona! The parking is pretty difficult. Small lot, so get there early. Also bring cash. I think it's $5 to park. The trail itself starts off easy, and gets progressively more difficult. The trail is well marked, so you shouldn't have much trouble figuring out where to go. You will have to get on all fours for parts of the trail as you are literally climbing up a crack in the rock. Eventually you get to the saddle region/end of the trail. The views are stunning! You can go on the ledge and take the obligatory selfie. It will look like you are just standing on the edge of a cliff. The ledge is surprisingly wide, with only one part that is pretty narrow and feels like you might fall off. Overall, this trail is simply amazing, and a must do in Sedona! read more
AWESOME HIKE!!! If I could give more than 5 stars I would! The hike is very short (.75 miles), but still allot about an hour to complete. The trail is challenging cause it winds up the side of a rock and you have to really climb over some rocks. Yet, towards the top it flattens out and you get the best views in all of Sedona!! I can't even describe how beautiful the view is.... go check it out!!! read more
5 years ago
Good hiking shoes and water is a must. You can spend an hour or half a day exploring the rock. Views from the top are incredible and worth every drop of sweat. Parking is an issue so try going early in the morning. read more
This was the first hike we did in Sedona. It was beautiful! Relatively short hike from the parking lot (must use interagency pass or $5 day use fee). There was also street parking just passed the parking lot. It was a very busy hike and not everyone is courteous. It does require some climbing. Going up was the easy part... Going down was tricky. I definitely scooted on down on my tush a couple times to keep from slipping, especially because it was slippery with the on and off sprinkling. You should climb all the way to the top for the best view! You'll see a sign stating its the end of trail. The view is worth it! Other hikes I recommend: Bell Rock climb + courthouse Butte Loop, Devil's Bridge, Fay Canyon, and Broken Arrow! read more
Climb it! Make it all the way to the top! It's so nice up there it's almost like rock-climbing but it's just really steep. The hike is shorter than it look and when you get to the top, the saddles can get incredibly windy. Don't turn around and leave, explore and take in the beautiful red rock county of Sedona. One of the freshest and rewarding hikes at such a short distance. We headed over to Devil's Bridge right after! :) read more
10 years ago
After spending a week around northern Arizona (Grand Canyon, Monument Valley, Page), this was my FAVORITE hike! The hike is short but the second half is challenging, so be warned. But the view at the top is 100% worth it. I was with my mom and sister who are not the most athletic, so they did the first half with me which still takes you to stunning views. I did the second half by myself and was slightly worried about my ability to get down by myself but it was fine, especially if you follow the white trail markers and do a lot of butt-sliding. read more
Dirt Small Parking lot with barely any shade. Make sure to go there early. $5 self pay. Cathedral Rock Trail (1.6 RT) is scary from bottom looking up but is fun to climb. Trail mark which make easier to climb. It hot at bottom but nice cool breeze at end of the trail. read more
9 years ago
Absolutely gorgeous hike! I'm an avid climber and hiker and it took me about 1.5 hours to the end of the trail and back, including multiple photo stops. This is one hike I wish I didn't bring my hiking poles. At one point, I was using all 4 of my limbs and the poles were in the way. We started the hike around 3pm and the view of Sedona was gorgeous but because of the way it was situated, this would also be a great sunrise hike. I'd definitely love to do this hike again. read more
My favorite of the four vortex hikes this one is steep but not too long and the views are outstanding! Bring Sunscreen as almost all of the trail is exposed to the sun. Bring plenty of water as well. There are some rock scrambles so wear good shoes. This hike while not difficult is probably not the best for a novice. read more
11 years ago
Although hard at times and involved a little rock climbing. This was the best hike of our trip to Sedona. The peace that you feel while at the top cannot be explained. read more
5 years ago
9 years ago
Let me start off by saying... this is a semi-tough climb. You do have to preform some light wall climbing. ( not an understatement) there are parts that are steep and dangerous, however the reward throughly outweighs the risk. The end of the trail is amazing and leaves you feeling fulfilled. The energy I felt was strong, not the strongest, but definitely a once in a lifetime experience. I have recently recovered from a major ankle surgery and was able to complete the trail so it's not too extreme, but it was way more intense then I expected. If you're decently fit, don't miss this trail. I would go with more then yourself though. read more
11 years ago
Beautiful hike. I was surrounded by people of all ages so it's great for children to grandparents! The hike gets steep pretty quickly, but it's not too bad. There are "vortex" areas, or areas of energy around that one can supposedly feel a deeper sense of energy around them, but even if you can't, the view at the end is worth it! Quite, calm, and completely picture perfect if you have the time I completely recommend it. Finding it was the trickiest part though! Google maps originally lead us two round abouts further than necessary, so while heading north just make sure to turn left onto Back O' Beyond to get there! and parking is limited and costs 5$ read more
11 years ago
This climb is definitely quite strenuous and it's necessary that you wear comfortable shoes and take a lot of water for a lot of stops, but this is not a problem because it's welcome to stop and just look out at the amazing views at all parts of the trail. My partner and I are quite active and have good stamina and we did this in about 1.5 hours, including all stops and pic ops/ chit chat with others at the top. Definitely a more popular hike and at just before 9am on a Tuesday there were a few spaces left in the car park - we commented how we could understand people's reviews about it getting busy, but as long as you can find parking and being $5 for a car pass, you'll be fine! Use the bathroom beforehand otherwise you'll have to hold it as there's nowhere here for you to go. In terms of the climb itself, if you are not able to walk on unlevel surfaces or don't have strong ankles to keep you balanced, I DO NOT recommend this one for you. I wouldn't say you have to 'climb' at any point but you have to be strategic with the inclines and the rocks can get smooth and sandy (therefore slippery) throughout. BEST ADVICE I read was to bring a backpack to put your water etc in, because you WILL need both hands, especially on the way down. Also, wear shorts you don't mind getting a little scuffed up because you will be sliding down on your butt for partway on the return. Don't be intimidated, just prepared and most importantly, ENJOY!! read more
I went here on a search for Buddha Beach. Note, that if you want to see Buddha Beach at it's finest don't go the day after a storm unless you're planning on helping rebuild it. It was still a nice hike though. Also note if you plan on setting up shop to have a sexy time with your partner, although it may seem scarce of other people, us other people do stay on the trails, usually, so y'all should do it, literally, a little off the trail, thanks for the awkwardness. Also, there a lot of families hiking. Oh and there are some cool looking swings out that way!.. read more
12 years ago
Beautiful place! Will remember forever. Highly Recommended. Although at parts it's very steep, I would rate hike moderate to difficult, there are several places to stop and rest. I weigh 228 5'10 and I have had no exercised for a month, so I was out of shape, but we hiked it just fine, so long as I got multiple breaks. We had a lot of fun. Felt safe the whole time. We went on December 30 - sunny clear skys, high was 50 degrees. No gloves or ear warmers needed, just a sweater and pants did the trick. Parking lot was full, but we found a spot 5 minutes walk down the street. Was kinda crowded at 9am on a Tuesday but it was during holiday weekend. read more
We found this place as Crescent Moon Ranch, but it's basically the same thing. Really loved hiking here! There are people, but it's not nearly as crowded as other places in Sedona. We hiked along the creek and made rock formations. Unfortunately, the water was high, so we couldn't cross it without getting wet, but I would highly recommend that if you could. Still, hiking along the waterfront is worth it. Very pretty rock formations and clear water! Would happily visit here again!!! read more
13 years ago
Some great trails! Love the hike not as secluded as I would hope but I haven't explored all the trails yet either! However parking can be a brag, also be cautious of the parking rules. They don't hesitate to ticket and tow your car.... read more
5 years ago
Cathedral Rock Trail is AMAZING. One of the highlights of Sedona. However, it involves a fair amount of climbing- putting your hands and feet into carved out foot holes to get over boulders. Not for the faint of heart, nor the faint of bicep! Parking can also be a bit tricky. It's a small lot, we just drove around a bit until we saw someone pulling out. But the trail is definitely worth all the effort!! read more
6 years ago
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Ask the Community - Cathedral Rock
Is this a dog friendly trail? If not, what dog friendly trails or hikes near by would be recommended?
Can you do this hike with sneakers?
I decided my Columbia hiking shoes would take up too much room. BIG mistake, so I had to do this hike with ASICS Gel-Noosa. I slipped many times. Would not recommend sneakers.
For best lighting at the end of the trail, is it best to hike in the morning or afternoon?
The end of the trail faces north-west-ish. So in terms of lighting, sunsets might be better, but it'll be a skiddish on the way back down especially without proper lighting.
What is the distance of this hike?
This is a short 0.7 mile but strenuous trail which quickly rises 608 feet in elevation. The midsection of the trail has a near vertical segment which requires climbing.
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Cathedral Rock - hiking - Updated August 2026
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