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    Cathedral Rock

    4.9 (345 reviews)

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    View of the cathedral
    Mitzi A.

    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.

    Megan B.

    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.

    The map of where you could go.
    Char C.

    This was a great hike. Going up was a mild until you got to the actual rock. There you need the right shoes with grip, a hat, sunscreen and water. Enjoy the breathtaking views.

    Cathedral rock
    Shay K.

    Super hot for a morning hike. You must take uber cuz the parking fills up by 5-6am... so if you're not planning to get up at the screech of dawn... take uber! The views are to die for and so many beautiful pictures you will get. One of the lovelier hikes for SURE

    The iconic ledge
    Brittany B.

    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!

    Where the trail begins
    Tina A.

    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.

    Amazing views from the plateau area
    Terry W.

    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.

    Gorgeous views
    Christy S.

    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.

    Cathedral Rock Trail Signage (05/22/25). #CathedralRock @VisitSedona #Sedona #Hiking #Traveling
    Jeff B.

    (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

    Sepideh Z.

    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.

    David G.

    Amazing Hike in an Amazing place. This trailhead has some fantastic trails leading to some spectacular views. Great parking with plenty of spaces and facilities. Bring water, sunscreen, yatta yatta yatta

    Kendoll C.

    Easy parking- lots of spaces- bathroom access- The hike was an eventful challenge- a fair bit of incline, nice spacious trail, decent challenge length- we went in the off season and still needed ample elevation ready water! The views from the top were great- a full experience- We got to the 'end of the trail', but you could still go beyond & see some great views- mini side walks at the top to edges complete & viewpoints- While the trail was very busy it did mellow out, as people move different paces along the narrow path another highly recommend.

    Ramesh A.

    The Cathedral Rock Trailhead was one of the beautiful nice hikes we did in Sedona. The parkingoy was full do we used the shuttle bus, probably a mile away. There are plenty of shuttle busses running. There were a lot of trail options. Remember to pack water bottles and get hiking shoes. We did the easy breezy trail about an hour and a half. It was worth the hike, which took us through a lot of scenery. There were lots of places to take pictures, and everyone enjoyed the hike and calmness once you got closer. If you want to have a very short 15-minute hike, just climb stairs as you exit the shuttle bus. Don't miss this place. You probably need at minimum 2 hours to enjoy this place.

    The view from the road

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    6 months ago

    Small but very powerful place. Highly recommended . There is even a small shop downstairs with some beautiful pieces for all.

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    Page 1 of 9

    Cathedral Rock Reviews in Other Languages

    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.

    How long is the hike to the top roundtrip?

    1.5-2 hours

    Don’t See Your Question? Ask Away!

    Review Highlights - Cathedral Rock

    Bring water, but make sure you can go hands-free (small backpack is better than a carabiner clipped bottle disrupting your balance).

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    Airport Mesa

    Airport Mesa

    4.4(146 reviews)
    2.0 mi

    Most places give you a sunset. Airport Mesa apparently felt that was underachieving…read more Sharon and I headed up there in the evening to catch the famous Sedona sunset, which on its own would have been worth the trip. The sky started doing that Sedona thing -- layers of orange, pink, and gold spreading across the horizon while the red rocks glowed like they had their own internal lighting system. Just when we thought the show had hit peak beauty, we turned around. And there it was. One of the most majestic moonrises I've ever seen slowly lifting over the horizon like it had been perfectly scheduled to steal the second act. The sunset painting the sky one direction... and the moon rising bright enough in the other that I briefly wondered if I should've brought sunglasses. It felt like Sedona decided to give us the best of both celestial worlds. Sunset in front of us. Moonrise behind us. Nature's version of surround sound. The overlook itself is easy to access and well worth the stop. People gathered quietly, cameras out, everyone sharing that universal look that says, "Are you seeing this too?" Moments like that remind you why places like this are special. Beauty that stops you mid-sentence. The kind that makes everyone pause, breathe, and just take it in. Pro tip: arrive a little before sunset and stay a little after. You never know when the universe might decide to put on an encore. Five stars, no question.

    Airport Mesa is located near the airport, but has a viewing area to see…read more panoramic views of Thunder Mountain, Cathedral Rock and Bell Rock. It's one of Sedona's vortexes. There is an overlook area and a trail. The trail is moderate and not very difficult. A easy stop in Sedona to see beautiful views. There is parking lot and the fee is $3.

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    Airport Mesa
    Airport Mesa - On top of airport mesa

    On top of airport mesa

    Airport Mesa

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    Oak Creek Canyon

    Oak Creek Canyon

    4.8(9 reviews)
    2.9 mi

    Oak Creek Canyon is the gateway to Sedona. Take SR89A for a scenic tour of the beautiful red rock…read moreformations and into the town of Oak Creek. You will ohhh and ahhh at the view that is just breathtaking. Pull outs along the way.

    Every summer we come up north because Phoenix is just too hot for my mother after her heat stroke…read morein 2024. We were parked off the side well away from the road and had just eaten a lovely lunch when 3 vehicles(2 trucks. One was black and one was silver. An SUV dark gray with a man and woman) with Nevada plates pulled off and blocked the road and the flow of traffic and practically on top of us. I'm beginning to see and understand the very real complaints from people who live in Sedona when they talk about entitled and aggressive behavior from tourists. My mother exited the vehicle and spoke to the small man in the SUV(around 4'2 and he was very aggressive) I didn't hear that conversation and was on the phone when all of the sudden the small angry man popped up in front of my window spouting off about delusional scenarios where I'm taking pictures of his kids(I saw no children) and acting unhinged. I verbally ripped into the person because I don't respond well to unhinged weirdos standing right next to my window. He kept rambling incoherently about his delusions and then mentioned the litter box for the cat(yes, I bring my cat when I leave for 6 months). Apparently the lunatic thought depriving a cat of a bathroom while traveling seemed reasonable. His delusions were all over the place because he was mad for being called out for dangerously blocking traffic, being entitled and acting like an unhinged lunatic because they said they just needed to take a minute. And that's another thing I'm tired of is tourists peeing all over this area when there are bathrooms and rest stops!! Definitely the weirdest behavior I've seen up north and that's saying a lot. But!!! They are from Nevada so this can't be blamed on Arizonans. But the scenic drive is still spectacular.

    Photos
    Oak Creek Canyon
    Oak Creek Canyon
    Oak Creek Canyon

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    Bell Rock - Daily Pass

    Bell Rock

    4.7(237 reviews)
    2.8 mi

    I'm not saying Bell Rock called my name... but if you'd heard it too, you probably would've shown…read moreup. There's something about Bell Rock that pulls you in. Maybe it's the shape. Maybe it's the energy. Maybe it's just that classic Sedona magic. Whatever it is, I felt it. Now let's start with the one challenge: parking. Limited spots and a bit of patience required. It took a while to find a place, but I decided to call that my warmup. Pro tip: arrive early or later in the afternoon if you want better odds at a spot. Once you hit the trail, everything changes. The path is wide and welcoming. No punishing climbs. No technical scrambling. Just an easy walk surrounded by those famous red rock views that make Sedona feel like another planet. And the quiet. That's the part that sticks with you. Step onto the trail and the noise of the world fades away. You're left with open sky, towering rock, and that peaceful stillness that reminds you why people come here in the first place. Whether you're a seasoned hiker chasing summits or someone who just wants a beautiful walk through nature, this trail delivers. Put this one on your Sedona list. Because sometimes the best hikes aren't the hardest ones... they're the ones that simply make you stop, breathe, and look around. Some places you visit... and some places feel like they were waiting for you. Bell Rock might just be one of those.

    Bell Rock is the best place to hike in Sedona. It's a flat and easy trail for about half way up,…read moreand the signage makes it's easy to follow the path. The views are absolutely spectacle from all angles and places on the mountain and trail. There's truly nothing more beautiful than the red rocks in Sedona and Bell Rock is a place to see the true beauty. Parking can be tricky but patience is key, as people are always coming and going. Whether you're an avid hiker or a true rock climber, this mountain is for you!

    Photos
    Bell Rock - Banana yucca flowers/ Bell rock trail

    Banana yucca flowers/ Bell rock trail

    Bell Rock - Parking Lot View (05/22/25). #BellRock #CourthouseButte @VisitSedona #Sedona #Hiking #Traveling

    Parking Lot View (05/22/25). #BellRock #CourthouseButte @VisitSedona #Sedona #Hiking #Traveling

    Bell Rock

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    Broken Arrow Trail

    Broken Arrow Trail

    4.8(62 reviews)
    2.1 mi

    Another trip up and back on the famous Broken Arrow Trail. This is my 4th time running this trail…read moreand it never disappoints. It's a short trail but a really fun trail. We saw a stock Tacoma and a stick Jeep getting dirty today. Nit recommend but they made it. I was in a Raptor today with 37" tires and I think we bottomed out two or three times. Keep in mind that if your vehicle is stock make sure you have a short wheel base and absolutely must have 4 wheel drive.

    Overall a delightful hike-…read more We arrived early, so parking was easy (they had about 14 set spots)- however when leaving we noticed the lot was beyond packed & people were circling for spots (bit of advice) As we walked along the bumpy trails there was an element of rock climbing & inclined spots Also note- watch out for the Pink Jeep Tours; professional intense driving (they look like a great time) but their roads intersect with the trail a fair amount & they drive up certain viewpoint walks- The trail started off well marked, then hit a viewpoint area, and signage dropped off-while we thought we were scrambling up Chicken Point, we discovered we were just scrambling for fun & were able to view the real Chicken Point from the top of our mountain Then we wanted to take Hog Wash trail back-but couldn't find the loop connect at the end of Broken Arrow I still rate the trail very high because our random scrambles were quite challenging & entertaining- it's a great area to explore based on your capability- and offers many varying side paths

    Photos
    Broken Arrow Trail - Ford Raptor made it with no problems

    Ford Raptor made it with no problems

    Broken Arrow Trail
    Broken Arrow Trail - Ford Raptor made it with no problems

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    Ford Raptor made it with no problems

    Boynton Canyon Trail

    Boynton Canyon Trail

    4.6(99 reviews)
    7.6 mi

    We hit Boynton Canyon Trail early. And I mean early enough that the air still had a chill to it and…read morethe light was just starting to spill over the rock. That's not a suggestion, it's the move. Give this place a head start on the day or it'll make you pay for it later. The trail opens gently, almost deceptively so. Wide path, easy footing, a kind of calm that makes you think you're in for a casual walk. Then the landscape starts to shift. The canyon walls rise, the color deepens, and the space narrows just enough to pull your attention forward. It's not a straight shot either. The trail has a rhythm to it. It bends, it reveals, it hides just enough to keep you moving. What stands out is how the environment changes as you go. You're not just walking toward a viewpoint. You're moving through layers. Open desert gives way to pockets of shade, then back out into sun where the red rock feels almost alive under that early light. The contrast is constant, and it keeps the whole thing interesting without needing anything artificial. We went as a group, mixed pace, different levels of enthusiasm, and it worked. Some pushed ahead, some took their time, but nobody felt like they were struggling to keep up or being held back. That's a rare balance. It's approachable without being boring, and it gives you just enough challenge to feel like you earned the views. And the views are worth it. There's a moment where the canyon really opens up, and you get that full Sedona effect. Towering formations, deep reds, shadows cutting across the rock in ways that change minute by minute. It's the kind of scene that makes people stop mid-conversation and just look. Phones come out for a second, then go right back into pockets because you realize it doesn't translate. Silence shows up out there in a way that's hard to find. Not total silence, but a kind of quiet that feels intact. Wind moving through, the occasional bird, footsteps on the trail. That's it. It clears your head whether you planned on it or not. By the time we were heading back, the temperature was climbing fast. That early start paid off. You could feel the shift, the desert reminding you who's in charge once the sun gets high. If you go later in the day, it's a different experience entirely, and not in a good way. A few practical things. Bring more water than you think you'll need. Wear real shoes. This isn't the place to test your balance in something flimsy. And pace yourself. It's not a race, and the trail is better when you let it unfold. There are a lot of hikes around Sedona that get attention, and for good reason. This one earns its spot. It's not just about the destination. It's the progression, the way the landscape pulls you in and keeps revealing itself piece by piece. Get there early, take your time, and let it speak for itself. Five stars without hesitation.

    Started this hike a little later than planned (around 10AM), but it still turned out to be such a…read moregreat experience. If you're heading to the Subway Cave, I highly recommend downloading AllTrails beforehand. Once you're on the trail, it's not very clear where to turn off. We saw a few people along the way, but no one nearby when it actually mattered... which led to a little confusion. I only went off track for a few minutes, but my friends ended up going about a mile too far before turning back The hike is about 5 miles round trip. You'll spend roughly 2 miles on the Boynton Canyon Trail before reaching the turnoff for the Subway Cave. Overall, it's a pretty easy and enjoyable hike - mostly flat and shaded through beautiful forest scenery. The final stretch up to the Subway Cave involves some rock scrambling, but it's manageable. Once you're there, you've got a couple options: you can climb up to the left for an incredible view or head to the right and climb up a different way for another great vantage point. I saw some people (even toddlers!) navigating around the rocks, but personally that part felt a little nerve-racking for me. Parking fills up quickly so plan ahead. That said, there's plenty of street parking nearby off the street, and they run shuttles on weekends, which helps a lot. Definitely bring water. It can get hot, especially later in the day. Even though this is a popular hike, I didn't have to wait at all for photos. People were hanging out and soaking in the views, but it never felt crowded or rushed. Total time for me was about 2.5 to 3 hours, including time spent relaxing and exploring at the cave. Overall, such a beautiful and rewarding hike. Just don't miss that turn!

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    Boynton Canyon Trail
    Boynton Canyon Trail
    Boynton Canyon Trail

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    Red Rock State Park

    Red Rock State Park

    4.4(182 reviews)
    2.7 mi

    Red Rock State park was the passport to our Sedona adventure. I didn't realize there was such an…read moreextensive trail system. On my list now is to figure out how to stitch all these trails together and come back and do a mega hike. Please come and create your own adventure.

    We took the whole family out to Red Rock State Park, and it ended up being one of the most balanced…read moredays we've had out here. Not overwhelming, not chaotic, just... right. If you've spent time around Sedona, you know how quickly things can feel crowded and overrun. This place is the opposite. It feels more intentional, more preserved. You're still surrounded by those iconic red rock formations, but here they're framed by open meadows, clusters of trees, and the steady presence of Oak Creek winding through the park. We set out as a group, a mix of adults and kids, and found trails that worked for everyone. That's the beauty of this place. You don't have to be chasing a summit to enjoy it. The trails are well-marked, manageable, and still interesting enough to keep you engaged. You're moving through changing terrain the whole time. One minute you're walking through sunlit grass, the next you're tucked into shade near the water, then you turn a corner and the red rock rises up again like it's been waiting for you. The creek pulls you in. There's something about moving water in the desert that makes you slow down without realizing it. We stopped more than once just to sit for a minute, let the kids explore a bit, listen to the sound of it moving over rock. No rush, no pressure to keep pushing forward. Wildlife shows up if you're paying attention. Birds moving through the trees, the occasional lizard darting across the trail, subtle signs that this isn't just a scenic backdrop, it's a living system doing its thing. What stood out most was the pace. This isn't a place that demands anything from you. It lets you take it in at your own speed. Some of us pushed a little farther down the trail, others hung back and soaked it in. Nobody felt like they were missing out. It's also one of those rare parks that feels curated without feeling artificial. You can tell it's cared for. Trails are maintained, signage is clear, and there's a quiet respect for the environment that seems to carry over to the people visiting. By the time we looped back, nobody was checking the time. That's usually a sign you picked the right place. If Sedona at its busiest feels like a spectacle, this feels like a conversation. Same landscape, different tone. And sometimes that's exactly what you want.

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    Red Rock State Park
    Red Rock State Park - Nightshade

    Nightshade

    Red Rock State Park - Snoopi

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    Snoopi

    Cathedral Rock - hiking - Updated May 2026

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