A Complete Guide to Hiking Cathedral Rock in Sedona
Today we’re talking all things Cathedral Rock. I will say, this is my favorite hike in Sedona and one of my favorite hikes in the country. It is short, challenging, and beautiful. I will never get sick of doing this hike. Let’s get started.
Disclaimer: This post does include affiliate links, at no extra cost to you.
WHERE IS CATHEDRAL ROCK?
Cathedral Rock is on the East Side of Sedona, on Highway 179. From Central Phoenix, it takes about 1 hour and 49 minutes to get to the trailhead (without traffic). When you’re driving up Highway 179 from highway I-10, you’ll pass the Visitor Center, Bell Rock, the Chapel of the Holy Cross on the right, and then you’ll reach Back O’ Beyond Road, which the trailhead is on.
Best Time of the Year to Hike CATHEDRAL ROCK?
The nice part about Cathedral Rock, and Sedona in general, is that it is a year-round destination. Keep in mind, Sedona in the summer (Memorial Day-Labor Day), temps can max out at close to 100 degrees. This is way too hot to hike. My rule of thumb is no hiking over 90 degrees. Even in summer, you can manage sunrise or sunset hikes. Sedona is absolutely beautiful from October-April.
Big Sedona Update
Sedona Now Has a shuttle
In recent years, Sedona created a Shuttle System to combat traffic at trailheads. There are park and ride’s to take you to specific popular trailhaeds from Thurs-Sun. You can park at these trailheads before 7 and after 5 as well- when shuttles are not running.
Cathedral Rock Hike
HIKE STATS
Okay, let’s get started on our hike. If you shuttle, make sure you finish your hike by the last shuttle trip. If you park, make sure you purchase a Red Rock Pass in the parking lot. Please ALWAYS carry enough water and sun protection with you. This trail is short, but it’s hard and very exposed. Below are the views of the trail from the parking lot.
Need some caffeine before your hike? HERE are the best coffee shops in Sedona.
You’ll start off with a calm walk until about 0.3 miles when you reach the intersection of Cathedral Rock Trail + Templeton Trail. From here, the hike becomes steeper. If you are with young children or have other limitations, this is a great viewpoint to take pictures + turn back around (photo of this spot below).
Beyond this point, the rest of the hike is steep and tires even the most experienced hikers out. Make sure to take frequent breaks. My dog (40 pound Australian Shepherd/ Cattle Dog Mix) is very active, and did great going up, but did require some help going down the steeper parts of the hike.
Need Good Hiking Boots?
You’ll start off with a calm walk until about 0.3 miles when you reach the intersection of Cathedral Rock Trail + Templeton Trail. From here, the hike becomes steeper. If you are with young children or have other limitations, this is a great viewpoint to take pictures + turn back around.
Beyond this point, you’re going to want good hiking shoes to help you climb up walls of rock. I wear Keen Terradorra, which are my favorite hiking boots. The rest of the hike is steep and tires even the most experienced hikers out. Make sure to take frequent breaks. My dog (40 pound Australian Shepherd/ Cattle Dog Mix) had no problems getting up, but did require some help going down the steeper parts of the hike.
This hike is exhilarating. I love crawling on all fours up the rock. No matter how many times I do this hike (I’ve done it well over 5 times now), it always takes my breath away- literally and metaphorically. Be careful after rain as it could be slick. This hike is great year-round, but DO NOT hike over 90 degrees. Even mid 80s. It’s not worth it. If possible, sunrise or sunset are asbolutely stunning on Cathedral Rock.
CONTINUE READING: 2-Day Sedona Itinerary
This hike was part of a 2 day trip to Sedona from Phoenix. I created a post as well as a savable PDF for you- check it out HERE.
End of Trail: Cathedral Rock
I will never understand the people that make it to the top of a hike only to turn around 2 minutes later. Take some time up here and enjoy the beauty of the top of Cathedral Rock. There is so much to see and enjoy.
to the right
Depending on what time of day you visit, you may or may not see people taking photos on the right side of the “End of Trail” sign. There is a small trail that leads along the rock wall to a ledge with absolutely stunning views.
to the left
If you go to the LEFT of the “End of Trail” sign, up a few rocks, and turn to the left, you get an awesome view of one of the Cathedral Rock spires. Please be careful!
Interested Hiking to Sedona Caves?
Here are a few amazing trails to add to your list!
Summary: Cathedral Rock
When I think of Sedona, I instantly think of Cathedral Rock. It is the iconic hike. I will never get sick of it. It’s short, so it doesn’t take too long. It’s not too hard or too easy. Highly recommend this hike, and spending more time in Sedona after. Happy hiking!
