Overview
Cathedral Rock is the postcard image of Sedona, and the trail to the saddle between its twin spires is one of the most popular hikes in Coconino National Forest. Don't let the short distance fool you. This 1.2-mile out-and-back packs 740 feet of elevation gain into 0.6 miles of climbing, with the upper half involving genuine rock scrambling on slickrock. It's steep, it's exposed, and it's not for everyone.
The reward is a seat in the saddle between the red rock towers with views stretching across the Verde Valley, Oak Creek, and the full panorama of Sedona's red rock formations. On a clear day, you can see the San Francisco Peaks, home to the Humphreys Peak Trail, 50 miles to the north.
This trail is not recommended for dogs. The steep slickrock sections are difficult for dogs to ascend and dangerous to descend, and there's no water on the route.
The Route
The approach (0 to 0.3 miles). The trail starts gently through juniper and pinyon forest on a sandy path. This is the warm-up. Enjoy it, because the next 0.3 miles are not gentle.
The scramble (0.3 to 0.5 miles). The trail hits the base of the rock and the character changes completely. You're now climbing up red sandstone slabs, following cairns and worn paths through increasingly steep terrain. Some sections require using your hands for balance and pulling yourself up ledges. There are no official handholds or chains. The rock has good friction when dry, but it becomes dangerous when wet.
The saddle (0.5 to 0.6 miles). The final push to the saddle involves one more steep section through a narrow slot between rock faces, then opens onto the saddle. This is the payoff: a natural viewing platform between the two main spires of Cathedral Rock. Find a spot on the flat rock, sit down, and take in the view.
When to Visit
March through May and September through November are the best windows. Temperatures are comfortable (60s to 80s), the light is excellent for photography, and the rock has the deepest color.
Summer (June through August): Temperatures in Sedona regularly exceed 100 degrees. The exposed rock amplifies the heat, and there is zero shade on the scramble. If you go in summer, start at first light (before 6 AM) or hike at sunset. Carry extra water.
Winter (December through February): Mild temperatures (40s to 60s) make winter hiking pleasant. The rock can be slippery when wet or frosty. Morning ice on the north-facing slabs is possible on cold mornings.
Sunrise and sunset are the prime times for both light and crowd management. Sunset hikers get warm golden light on the rock. Sunrise hikers get the trail mostly to themselves.
What to Bring
- Sturdy footwear: Hiking boots or shoes with good grip. The slickrock demands traction. Avoid smooth-soled shoes, flip-flops, or sandals.
- Water: 1 to 2 liters per person. More in summer. There is no shade or water on the route.
- Sun protection: Hat, sunscreen, sunglasses. The rock reflects heat and UV.
- Gloves (optional): Some hikers find light gloves helpful for the scrambling sections, though the rock is not sharp.
Practical Details
Parking and fees: The Cathedral Rock Trailhead lot on Back O' Beyond Road has about 50 spaces. A Red Rock Pass is required ($5/day, $15/week, or $20/year). The lot fills early, often by 8 AM on weekends and by 9 AM on weekdays during peak season. If the lot is full, do not park along the road. You will be ticketed and possibly towed. Try the nearby Crescent Moon/Red Rock Crossing area as an alternative starting point.
Difficulty context: The trail is rated moderate-hard, but the scrambling may feel harder if you're uncomfortable with heights or exposed rock. The route is not technically difficult (no ropes or gear needed), but it requires comfort with steep, uneven surfaces and occasional exposure. People with a fear of heights may struggle with the upper sections.
Dogs: Not recommended. The steep rock scrambling is difficult and potentially dangerous for dogs, and the lack of shade and water makes it a poor choice in warm weather.
Kids: Older children (10+) who are comfortable with scrambling can do this trail. It's not appropriate for young children or toddlers. The drop-offs near the saddle require supervision.
Getting There
The Cathedral Rock Trailhead is on Back O' Beyond Road, off SR-179, about 3 miles south of the Sedona Y (the junction of SR-89A and SR-179). From the Sedona Y, drive south on SR-179 and turn right onto Back O' Beyond Road. The trailhead parking is at the end of the road.
From Phoenix, take I-17 north to SR-179 at Exit 298 (Village of Oak Creek). The trailhead is about 8 miles north on SR-179. Total drive time from Phoenix is about 2 hours.
Beyond the Saddle
The saddle is the standard turnaround point. Climbing beyond the saddle onto the actual spires of Cathedral Rock is a technical rock climb requiring ropes and experience. Do not attempt to free-climb the spires.
For a different perspective of Cathedral Rock, the Crescent Moon/Red Rock Crossing day-use area ($11/vehicle) provides the classic postcard view of Cathedral Rock reflected in Oak Creek. It's a great complement to the trail: climb Cathedral Rock in the morning, then photograph it from the creek in the afternoon.
Cathedral Rock is Sedona compressed into one short hike. It's steep, photogenic, and over quickly. But the combination of the scramble, the views from the saddle, and the sheer presence of the rock formation makes it one of those trails that lives up to its reputation. Just show up early and wear real hiking shoes.
Coconino National Forest offers a progression of challenges beyond Cathedral Rock. Bell Rock Pathway (3.6 miles, easy) is 3 miles north on SR-179 and works well as a warm-up or recovery trail — flat, dog-friendly, and scenic. Boynton Canyon (6 miles, moderate) offers a longer, more immersive half-day experience with Sinagua ruins in the canyon walls. Wilson Mountain (10.4 miles, strenuous) is for those who want Sedona's most demanding summit, rising 2,800 feet above the valley floor with views that include Cathedral Rock from above.
The Red Rock Pass required at Cathedral Rock's trailhead is valid at every Sedona-area trailhead in Coconino National Forest. The America the Beautiful Interagency Pass covers it along with recreation fees at most federal lands nationwide. For trip planning across the Sedona area, the best hikes near Phoenix guide covers the drive from Phoenix through the red rock country and into Flagstaff.